Dial *#06# to display your new phone’s IMEI. You can also usually find it printed on your phone’s packaging. Still shopping for a new phone or tech accessories? Check out our coupon site for discounts on Walmart products.
The process is slightly different per carrier, but generally you will need to log in, select the line you are activating a device on, and then enter the IMEI number for the phone you are activating. If you’re activating a prepaid plan online, you will likely need to enter an Activation Code. This is typically included with your SIM purchase. If you don’t have one, you’ll need to call the number below for your carrier, or go into a retail store. [2] X Research source
AT&T - (866) 895-1099 Verizon - (800) 922-0204 T-Mobile - (844) 730-5912
The SIM tray can be found on the right side of the iPhone. Use the SIM removal tool or a small paperclip to eject the tray.
If you are trying to activate a used iPhone, you may be prompted to log in with the previous owner’s Apple ID. The only way to bypass this is to perform a complete wipe and reset of the iPhone. If this still doesn’t work, the previous owner reported the iPhone as stolen, and it cannot be activated.
If you don’t have access to a wireless network, you can plug your iPhone into your computer and use iTunes or Finder to activate the device. You will be prompted to activate automatically after plugging the phone in.
If you receive a SIM card error, ensure that you have the correct SIM card inserted in the iPhone.
Unless the device has been unlocked, it can generally only be activated on the same carrier it was originally activated on.
Dial *#06# to display your new phone’s IMEI number. You can also usually find it printed on the phone itself, either on the back or behind the removable battery.
AT&T - (866) 895-1099 Verizon - (800) 922-0204 T-Mobile - (844) 730-5912
It might be a good idea to listen to and write down any important voicemails on the old device before you activate a new one since there’s a chance that your voicemail inbox may not transfer to your new device. You’ll also want to back up your old text messages, contacts, and any other data on your old phone. Like voicemails, there’s a chance that your old text history, contacts, or other data will not transfer.
