Can I switch from AT&T to T-Mobile and keep my phone?

Posted on: 13 Aug 2024
Can I switch from AT&T to T-Mobile and keep my phone?

For individuals who want to migrate from AT&T to T-Mobile, one of the most often asked questions is if one can keep the same phone. Indeed, you often may bring your AT&T Internet phone with you to T-Mobile. You should know this here.

Phone Compatibility

Check first if T-Mobile's network will be compatible with your AT&T phone. More importantly, you will be happy to learn that T-Mobile runs on both the CDMA and GSM networks. That is, should you have a smartphone built within the last five years, it should run perfectly. Look at T-Mobile's IMEI checker or BYOD checker to see if your specific phone type and manufacturer will work.

Most phones—including iPhones and some of the most often used Android phones like Samsung Galaxy phones—should run reasonably after switching over. The earlier AT&T basic phones or certain other specialized devices might not be able to do this, however. Therefore, ensure that your equipment is likewise suitable for continuance before drawing hasty decisions.

Unlocking Your Phone
To enable you to use your phone on other networks, you will then have to ask AT&T to unlock it for you. This enables the gadget to function on networks other than AT&T and synchronize on other carriers' systems.

Under its unlocking policy, you can request an AT&T unlock if.

  • Any early termination fees have been paid and your service contract has now come to an end
  • Your phone has never had any subsidies from the service providers in the form of a contract or subsidies.
  • AT&T mobile and/or broadband customer for at least 60 days

Currently, you can unlock your AT&T device through the company’s website or using the phone number. You may be asked to provide additional information such as your phone’s IMEI number; ATT ensures that approval to unlock a device takes a maximum of 48 hours.

Swapping SIM Cards
All that is required after unlocking an AT&T phone is to activate your T-Mobile service and replace the SIM card.

Buy a standard or an eSIM card from T-Mobile that is compatible with the card presently in use in the phone. Turn off your device and replace the old AT&T card with the new T-Mobile card. Switch on your phone and the activation process will begin to recognize and set the service for you. It is also possible that you will have to choose the T-Mobile network specifically from the options on your phone.

That’s it! You will now join the T-Mobile cellular network for voice, text, and data services. This same device works but is associated with your new T-Mobile phone number and billing account. The consumers can continue using the phone they are familiar with without having to buy a new phone.

Additional Benefits of T-Mobile
With your phone situation squared away, be sure to take advantage of extra perks from T-Mobile.
  • Consistent 5G – T-Mobile has quickly established a robust 5G network across the country in the mid-band spectrum, which is ideal for the balance between speed and coverage. Get 5G speeds in a way, way more spots than AT&T 5G.
  • International roaming – T-Mobile offers free 2G data and unlimited text messaging for most of its plans. Some plans also include high-speed data while abroad and even access to a 5G network. This usually comes at an added cost when using AT&T.
  • Special offers – T-Mobile Tuesdays are a thing where T-Mobile’s customers get free stuff and discounts every week, rewards points promos for future savings, and many more. AT&T does not have as many programs like this.
  • Multiple line price cut – Like all other providers, T-Mobile has account holder, auto-pay, military, senior, and other price cuts if you meet the requirements. Also, for every more person added to the plan, they have multiline savings.

Switching from AT&T to T-Mobile is not very complicated anymore especially if one intends to retain his or her phone. Just make sure your device is compatible, get it unlocked from AT&T, activate a new T-Mobile SIM card, and enjoy your improved coverage and perks!

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