When you unlock a cell phone that uses GSM technology -- in other words, it has a SIM card -- you can use the device on any carrier by inserting that carrier's SIM card into it. If you haven't yet activated service with your desired carrier, insert the SIM into the device. Then, activate the new line of service by contacting your new wireless provider and supplying them with the unlocked phone's IMEI serial number. You can contact your provider through their website, over the phone or in person at a retail store.
Instructions
1. Pop the new SIM card out of the larger sheet of plastic it comes in. Save the piece of plastic, which contains the SIM card's serial number.
2. Remove the phone's battery and pop open the metal tray above its existing SIM card. Remove the SIM card and replace it with the new SIM card. Write down the phone's 15-digit IMEI serial number, located on the underside of the battery or, in some cases, above the SIM tray, and replace the battery.
3. Point your Web browser to the activation site specified on the SIM card's packaging. Enter the SIM card's serial number, the device's IMEI number and the carrier activation code, if there is one. Follow the carrier's instructions for activating your phone via the Web, which may involve submitting your Social Security number for a credit check if you want postpaid contract service.
4. Dial the designated customer service phone number for the carrier to which the SIM belongs if you prefer to have a trained professional guide you through the process. If you use AT&T or T-Mobile, for example, this number is 611. Dial "0" to speak to an operator, who can activate the phone for you.
5. Visit a retail store for the cell phone provider whose SIM is in the device if you prefer that someone handle the activation for you in person. Inform the representative that you would like to activate service, and provide him with the device serial number you wrote down, as well as the 20-digit SIM card serial number written on the larger sheet of plastic from which you removed the SIM.
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