What is a Phone?
A mobile phone is a portable telephone that can make and receive calls over a radio frequency link while the user moves within a telephone service area, as opposed to a fixed-location phone.
How To Activate a Phone Online
Get your IMEI number.
This may not be required during activation, but it can be helpful to have around.[1]
- Dial *#06# to display your new phone’s IMEI. You can also usually find it printed on your phone’s packaging.
Activate through your carrier’s website.
Most carriers have activation services that are available through their websites. This can be a much quicker method than trying to call and get a cell phone activated.
- 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.
Call the activation number from your new phone.
If you are having difficulty activating online, or have a special case (such as activating an upgrade received from someone else’s line on the same plan), calling your carrier will be the easiest way to ensure that everything activates properly. You may need the account holder’s SSN or other identifying information.
- AT&T – (866) 895-1099
- Verizon – (800) 922-0204
- T-Mobile – (844) 730-5912
Can you activate a phone online?
Activate through your carrier’s website.
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.
How long does it take to activate a phone online?
Most activations are completed within a few minutes. However, in some cases, it can take up to 24 hours.