So you want to use your current phone on a new mobile service? We've got you covered. 

Maybe you've been eyeing Reach for a while and are waiting for your old phone contract to expire. Or maybe you've just signed up for your new Reach plan and are wondering what to do next. Read on to learn the simple steps to get your device ready for a new mobile service.

1. MAKE SURE YOUR PHONE IS COMPATIBLE WITH THE REACH NETWORK.

First things first, visit our Network Compatibility Check to see if your phone will work on our network. It checks your IMEI/MEID, which is a special number associated with your phone that says which network frequencies it can work on (we just got techy there… sorry about that).

If you've already purchased a Reach plan, you're all set! Got additional lines on your plan? Be sure to check theirs too before activating to avoid any surprises.

What you need:                                      
Your phone's IMEI number and our device compatibility check less than 5 minutes

How to locate your IMEI number: For iPhones For Android phones

On most phones, dial *#06# from the call app.

2. MAKE SURE YOUR PHONE IS UNLOCKED (AND WE AREN'T TALKING ABOUT A SCREEN LOCK PASSWORD). 

You have to explicitly ask your carrier to unlock the device. Unlocking your device is something controlled by your current carrier. Only your existing carrier knows if your device is unlocked and there is no way for Reach to know whether your device is locked or unlocked. It's also important to note that simply paying off your phone usually won't do the trick.

What you need: a phone to call your current carrier, the assistance of the account holder (if it's not you), and some patience (this could take 10 minutes+)

Ready to call your carrier for a device unlock? Here's what to say:

3. OTHER TIPS

It could take your carrier up to 72 hours to unlock your phone, so make sure you start this process before you begin your Reach activation. (Tip: as soon as you've purchased your plan, go ahead and start this process.)

Also, this probably goes without saying, but please be sure to never cancel your current service until you're up and running with Reach. Why should you never cancel your current service until you're officially live on Reach? Once your current number carries over to Reach and your new SIM goes live, your old service will be cancelled automatically (easy, right?) If you're getting a new number, you will need to call to cancel (or log in to your web account) once you're live on Reach. Better safe than sorry when it comes to your connection!

READY TO JOIN THE REACH FAM?

Generally speaking, getting your device ready for Reach is pretty simple. A little planning upfront and it should be smooth sailing over to your new favorite mobile plan. Can't wait for you to get here!

Got more device questions? Our FAQ knows a lot about this stuff.