Both AT&T and Metro PCS are good and reliable internet and phone service providers in the United States. Although Metro PCS operates as a Mobile Virtual Network Operator, the two carriers are very committed to their role of connecting US residents. However, several differences between the two carriers make the residents decide which one to pick is appropriate for them. This article explains how you can switch your AT&T phone to a MetroPCS phone.
Notably, residents are given the option of switching from one carrier to another to enjoy the best internet and phone services. According to the individual, the main benefit is the savings the person may make after switching to a better provider. Although some users may consider AT&T as the best provider for them, others still find a reason why they may opt to join the Metro PCS network. Remember, both carriers have their respective ups and downs.
Switching to the Metro PCS network from AT&T or any other carrier is simple. The main reason is that Metro PCS allows new customers to join the network with their current phones using the Bring Your Own Phone (BYOP) plan. Your phone is only required to have met the required qualifications to achieve this. Today, we will discuss how you can successfully switch your device from AT&T to Metro PCS.
Definitions For AT&T
AT&T is one of the US’s primary mobile services providers and is also ranked as the country’s biggest provider of fixed telephone services. It ensures unthrottled and endless services and flexibility to its customers. AT&T plans and deals are pretty reasonable, with some being contract-based while others are not. Additionally, it offers pay-TV services via DirecTV. This provider uses GSM network technology for operation.
How does Metro PCS operate
Metro PCS being an MVNO means it does not have its own network towers. The carrier uses T-Mobile’s GSM network, which is owned through a reversed merger, to offer its services. It is much more reliable in coverage as the T-Mobile network reaches about 99% of the US landmass. Metro PCS offers limited and unlimited phone plans, which are very affordable with no contract.
Some of the reasons you may opt to join Metro PCS are its cheap plans, comprehensive network coverage, no-contract plans, BYOP plan, and quality phone deals. Do you know you can get a free phone when you switch to Metro PCS? You can also get a free phone plan if you are eligible for the Metro PCS Affordable Connectivity Program.
The Flexible Ways to Switch your AT&T Phone to Metro PCS
People opt to switch to another network with their current devices to evade the costs of purchasing a new one. Metro PCS has the BYOP plan that allows this. However, you must ensure that your AT&T phone is:
1) Compatible with Metro PCS
Most of AT&T’s new models of phones are compatible as they use the GSM technology used by both carriers. However, if you are using an older model, it is advisable to confirm its compatibility. Metro PCS has an online compatibility checker on its website where you enter your phone’s IMEI and check.
2) Unlocked
To be unlocked means that it should not be tied with the AT&T network so that the switching may be successful. For active AT&T customers, you can unlock your device using a portal available on the AT&T website. You must ensure you have paid for the phone in full. Active military personnel can unlock their devices without paying the total amount. To unlock your AT&T phone:
- Go to the AT&T website to the unlocking portal and select ‘unlock your device.’
- Select ‘Yes’ and enter your phone number when prompted if you’re an AT&T client.
- Fill up the remaining fields with your name and email address.
- You will be sent an email from AT&T. Click that email’s link within 24 hours, and your unlock request will be executed. You’ll have to repeat the process if you don’t click it within a day.
AT&T shall respond within two business days with either an acceptance or rejection of your request. If you were turned down, it’s likely that you still owe AT&T money. AT&T will provide you with more details on unlocking your specific phone model once your request is approved. Depending on which phone you have, the steps will be different.
How do you make the switch?
After your phone meets the requirements mentioned above, you must purchase a Metro PCS SIM card that you will use with the Metro PCS network. After that, you will:
- Go to the AT&T website to get the unlocking process started at www.att.com/deviceunlock.
- Submit your request to “SIM Unlock.” AT&T will issue you the unlock code.
- Insert the Metro PCS SIM card on your device.
- Restart your device and open it again.
Your device will then be permanently unlocked for the Metro PCS network. The other method of switching your AT&T phone to Metro PCS is:
- Reach out to AT&T customer care by dialing 611 on your unlocked phone.
- Request the account number and the PIN from the AT&T customer service attendants.
- After that, visit a nearby Metro PCS store and show them your account number and PIN. They will make the switch according to your requirements.
Is there any cost of switching an AT&T phone to Metro PCS
There are no associated costs when switching your AT&T phone to Metro PCS apart from the $10 cost of purchasing a Metro PCS SIM card. It applies not only to AT&T but to any other carrier you might be switching from. This one benefits mainly those who have no contract with their previous carriers. In this case, your first costs will be:
- $10 for the SIM card.
- The cost of the plan you will choose.
Bottom line
Metro PCS is an American wireless service provider owned by T-Mobile. Despite operating as an MVNO, it has various cheap phone plans and deals that make it compete with more prominent providers like AT&T. You can join the Metro PCS network with your current device or opt to purchase a new one. Switching your AT&T phone to Metro PCS is quite simple if you are interested.