Metro PCS is among the most popular wireless network operators in the United States. It runs as a Mobile Virtual Network operator under T-Mobile and hence was renamed Metro by T-Mobile in 2013. The carrier has some of the best affordable cell phone plans for its customers and various phone deals at cheaper costs. However, does this carrier have the bring your own phone to MetroPCS plan? We shall see that in this article.
A good feature of Metro PCS plans is that they have no contracts. You will receive unlimited talks, texts, and data with no particular commitments. Do you know you can get a free phone with Metro PCS when you switch to the network? This plan has made more customers join the network; hence it is a popular network provider in the US. Again, do you know that you can also get free phone plans after you qualify?
Metro PCS also has plans for low-income households and individuals. This is evident as it participates in the Affordable Connectivity Program, helping all qualifying and eligible persons. To enjoy Metro PCS services, you must have a phone working well with the carrier’s network. Let’s understand how a person willing to switch to Metro PCS can bring the current device to the network.
The benefits of choosing the Metro PCS network
i) Cheap phone plans
As evident from the carrier’s website, it has various plans that are of low cost. You can get a plan for as low as $30 per month. If you qualify for the Metro PCS ACP, you can get this plan for free.
ii) Wide network coverage
T-Mobile is one of the major network providers in the US. Metro PCS customers enjoy a broad and reliable 4G LTE and 5G network coverage. Notably, Metro PCS services are available in several states across the US. However, it is advisable to check the carrier’s availability in your area before switching to the network and settling on a plan.
iii) Easy to join
The process of switching to the Metro PCS network is straightforward. For any US resident interested in Metro PCS services, you can join regardless of whether you are bringing your own device or buying a new one.
iv) No contracts
Metro PCS plans require no annual commitments when acquiring them as they involve no contracts. Therefore you can change or amend your preferred plan without an extra cost.
The process to Get Bring Your Own Phone to MetroPCS
Most users don’t wish to abandon their phones when switching to other carriers from their previous carriers. This one helps them save on the costs involved when buying a new device. Metro PCS allows its new customers to bring their own phones when switching to its network.
This plan also helps in attracting more new customers. However, there are some standards your phone requires to have so that it can work well using the Metro PCS network. The following guidelines will help you be able to bring your own phone to this carrier’s network:
1) Check coverage
It is good to check whether Metro PCS services are available in your location before bringing your device and using it with the carrier’s network. Before you get started, you can first confirm whether you are in the coverage area by visiting the coverage map on the Metro by T-Mobile website.
2) Ensure your phone is compatible with the Metro PCS network
You need to check that the device you wish to switch to Metro PCS is compatible with the carrier’s network. Compatibility means that it can execute and run websites and programs properly using the Metro PCS network. Although most GSM phones are Metro PCS compatible phones, it is advisable to confirm.
To achieve this, you will require your phone’s IMEI number. You can then use the compatibility checker available on the carrier’s website by entering the IMEI number. You can get the IMEI number by dialing *#06# or from the back of your phone’s battery.
3) Make sure your phone is unlocked
An unlocked device is not tied to any specific carrier. You can confirm with your previous carrier in case yours is locked.
4) Acquire a Metro SIM card
A SIM card is vital when bringing your own phone to Metro PCS as it connects your device to the carrier’s network. You can get a SIM card right in any nearby store, which is a quick and safe means to receive a universal SIM card Kit for $10, with a Nano SIM card, a micro, and a standard SIM card adapter. You can also order it online and have it mailed to you.
5) Choose a BYOP Metro PCS plan
Metro PCS offers several plans, including unlimited plans at different costs. You can check these plans on the carrier’s website. These plans suit existing and new customers joining the network.
6) Activate the SIM card
After acquiring the SIM card, you need to insert it into your compatible phone and activate it. You can choose the online activation or call the carrier’s customer care at 1-888-8metro8 or 888-863-8798. Additionally, you can visit a Metro PCS nearby and be assisted.
Metro PCS SIM card Activations Process
When activating your SIM card, you require details like personal details, account PIN, and the SIM card’s serial number. Therefore it is necessary to have a Metro PCS account. If you do not have an account, you have to sign up for a new account to get your account’s PIN. You can do the online activation using the website and follow the instructions or call customer care.
Notably, if you already have a Metro PCS account and your device is a GSM unlocked, you can insert the SIM card into your device and get started.
Can you switch SIM cards between Metro PCS phones?
Switching MetroPCS SIM cards is a simple procedure, although it varies depending on the phone model. First, you need to know where the SIM card slot is in the phones you are switching SIM cards. If finding the slot proves challenging, you can check your model on the company’s website.
When switching your SIM card, you should call MetroPCS customer support to let them know. However, the device you’re switching must be compatible with the Metro PCS network.
Metro PCS-compatible phones
Most iPhones and Android phones nowadays use the GSM network technology stated above. Therefore, any unlocked GSM-compatible phone is compatible with this carrier. Notably, if you wish to purchase a new phone when joining this network, it is advisable to check the phone deals available on its website. These phones are among the latest ones from brands like Apple, Samsung, Motorola, LG, and Nokia.
You can acquire prepaid phone plans with these phones, ranging from the cheapest one at $30/month to the $60/month unlimited plan. You can also acquire the available family plans if interested. Customers must pay a $20 activation charge per line with Metro PCS for the set-up fees. In addition, depending on the deal, adding a line to a cell phone plan can cost up to $30 per line.
How can you upgrade your cell phone plan with Metro PCS?
Apart from offering a Metro PCS phone upgrade program, this carrier also enables you to upgrade the phone plan that you selected. You can change your Metro by T-Mobile phone plan in one of three ways: by going to a Metro store, dialing *611 on your phone, calling 1-888-8METRO8 (863-8768), or going to your online account. From there, you will be guided or follow the provided instructions.
On the other hand, customers are eligible for any promotions or rebates offered to new customers every 180 days for phone upgrades. Any device upgrades made within these 180 days will require the subscriber to pay the total retail price.
Bottom line
Metro PCS is a well-known MVNO in the US operating under T-Mobile. It offers quality and affordable services, including plans and deals. However, you need to have a compatible phone to enjoy its services. Additionally, Metro PCS allows you to bring your own phone when switching to the network. You need to meet the BYOP requirements elaborated above in this article.