What Do I Need Before Activating the MetroPCS Phone?
Metro by T-Mobile, formerly known as MetroPCS, is a prepaid wireless service and cell phone provider owned by T-Mobile USA.
In case you have purchased a new phone and wish to activate it on Metro, this article will tell you all you need to know about how to activate a new phone on MetroPCS.
First, you have to collect certain items and information, which will be needed during the activation process.
- Phone and Metro SIM Card
- Phone Number
- Phone IMEI Number
- Email Address
- Other account information (if you already have a MetroPCS account)
Once the information and the items above have been collected, you will be required to choose a MetroPCS plan that best fits your needs. You can do so by visiting Metro’s official website.
How to Activate MetroPCS Phone – MetroPCS Activation
MetroPCS or Metro by T-Mobile offers free phone activation for new and existing customers. There are many options for how to activate your MetroPCS phone and fortunately, all of them are relatively quick and simple. You can activate your MetroPCS phone online, in a store, by the phone, manually, etc.
How to Activate a MetroPCS Phone on a New Account
To activate a MetroPCS phone on a new account, you will have to get a MetroPCS SIM card, which you can purchase in any Metro store or online. If you have purchased a new Metro phone, you will find the SIM card included in the package.
In addition, as Metro is a prepaid service provider, you will have to pay your first month’s bill upfront before you can activate your phone.
MetroPCS phone Activate Online
To activate a phone on a new account online, it’s best to do so on the Self-Service Center page at metrobyt-mobile.com/self-serve.html. Choose ‘Activate my new account’ or go straight to metrobyt-mobile.com/self-service/activate. There, you will get detailed instructions.
- The first step is to get your phone and SIM card ready and to find your phone’s unique ID number by dialing *#06# or by checking the phone’s settings or the label under the battery.
- Secondly, be ready to select a phone plan at metrobyt-mobile.com/#phoneplan and pay for your first month of service.
- Provide your information, including your name, contact, and an email address that is not associated with another Metro account.
- Press ‘Activate your phone’.
- Once redirected, simply follow the onscreen instructions to complete the activation process.
MetroPCS phone Activate Via Customer Care
Another way to activate a phone on a new account is by calling the company’s customer care service. Simply call 1-888-8Metro8 (1-888-863-8768) on another phone and ask the representative to help you with the activation process. During the activation process, you will also need to provide your personal information and your phone’s ID, therefore make sure to have all the info ready.
MetroPCS phone Activate Manually
You can also activate your Metro device directly from the device you are planning to activate. To do so, simply dial 288. During this automated system make sure to follow the instruction. You will be able to activate your phone, provide personal information to start your account, and provide payment for your first month’s bill. By the time you hang up, the device should be activated and ready to use.
MetroPCS phone Activate In-store
Alternatively, you can activate your Metro phone on a new account in person. Simply find the nearest Metro store or service center and ask a sales representative to assist you in activating your device and setting up your account. If you aren’t tech-savvy, this may be the simplest option for you.
How to Activate a MetroPCS Phone on an Existing Account
In case you already have a Metro by T-Mobile account and a Metro phone, the activation process is even simpler. All you have to do is to follow the simple steps below:
- Step 1: Remove your SIM card from your old Metro phone.
- Step 2: Insert your SIM card into your new Metro phone.
- Step 3: Wait a moment for the network to initialize.
- Step 4: Your phone is activated and ready to use. Enjoy!
How to Activate a MetroPCS Phone You Brought From Another Carrier
Metro by T-Mobile or MetroPCS also allows customers to bring their own devices to Metro. However, the device must be unlocked and compatible. Metro uses T-Mobile’s GSM network, therefore it is compatible with phones from T-Mobile, AT&T, iPhones from Verizon and US Cellular (except iPhone 4), and most new, unlocked devices. To unlock your device, contact your previous carrier and ask them to unlock the device.
Once you make sure your device is unlocked and compatible, you will have to get a Metro SIM card. You can do so at a Metro store, online, or by calling the company’s customer service.
Then, you can activate your phone by following any of the standard activation options provided above.
In this case, it is perhaps simplest if you visit a Metro store. There, you will be able to buy a SIM card and activate your account. You will even be able to bring your phone number.
In case you need any additional help or if you have questions, call Metro’s customer service at 1-888-8Metro8 (1-888-863-8768).
In case you also need information How To Unlock T-Mobile Phone
How Do You Activate a New iPhone With MetroPCS?
Both iPhones and Android phones can be activated with MetroPCS by following the standard activation options listed in the previous section. Simply choose between whether you already have a Metro account or if you don’t or if you are bringing your device from another carrier, and follow the instructions.
Do I Need to Activate the MetroPCS Tablet?
In addition to phones, Metro by T-Mobile or MetroPCS also offers tablets. You can see their selection of devices at metrobyt-mobile.com/shop/devices.
When using a tablet, you have two options – you can either use it without a SIM card (this way you won’t be able to use your carrier’s data but you will still be able to connect it to Wi-Fi and use all apps) or with a SIM card (which enables you to use your carrier’s monthly data on it).
If you are planning to use your Metro tablet without a SIM card, you do not need to activate it.
If, on the other hand, you wish to use it with a SIM card, you will have to activate the device. See how in the following section.
How Do I Activate a MetroPCS Tablet?
The activation process for a tablet should be similar to that for a phone. However, tablets may vary, therefore, it’s best to activate your MetroPCS tablet either:
- By visiting a Metro store
- Or by calling the company’s customer support service at 1-888-8Metro8 (1-888-863-8768).
Both of these options will provide you with a professional who will be able to walk you through the process (or complete the process him/herself) depending on which tablet brand and model you have.
How to Activate a MetroPCS SIM Card?
Your MetroPCS SIM card cannot be activated on its own. Instead, you must purchase it (online, in-store, or by calling Metro’s customer service) and insert it into a device (phone or tablet).
Once the SIM card is correctly inserted in the device in which you are planning to use it (it can be a Metro device or one that is unlocked and compatible with Metro services), you can activate it.
Do so by using the activation steps for activating a phone or tablet listed in previous sections.If you need more information visit MetroPCS SIM Card Activation Guideline
What to Do if I Can’t Activate Metro by Following the Instructions Above?
In case you tried to activate your MetroPCS new phone or tablet and you are experiencing any kind of trouble, you can first check out the list of frequently asked questions about the Metro activation process at metrobyt-mobile.com/self-service/activate.
If this doesn’t help, make sure to contact Metro’s customer support service at 888-8-METRO-8 or *611 from your Metro phone. You can also always visit a local Metro store and ask the representative to help you out. Find a store near you at metrobyt-mobile.com/storelocator?icid=internal%7Clink%7CContactus%7CDW3%7Cfindstore by entering your address or ZIP code.
What Are the Benefits I Get After I Activate My Metro Phone?
Once you activate your Metro phone, you will be able to use Metro services, which offer lots of benefits, including:
Great plans
Metro by T-Mobile or MetroPCS offers flexible and reliable service plans.
The company’s most affordable plan costs $30 a month and it offers unlimited talk, unlimited text, and 5 GB of high-speed data. The plan is completely free of charge for customers with the federal Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP).
There is also the $40 plan ($10 for ACP subscribers) with unlimited talk, unlimited text, 10 GB of high-speed data, and Music Unlimited. You can save $10 on each additional line.
In addition, Metro offers a $50 s month unlimited plan ($20 for ACP subscribers) with unlimited talk, unlimited text, and unlimited high-speed data, 5 GB of hotspot data, and 100 GB Google One membership. You can save $20 on each additional line.
Finally, the company offers a $60 a month unlimited plan ($30 for ACP subscribers), which comes with unlimited talk, unlimited text, and unlimited high-speed data, 15 GB of hotspot data, 100 GB Google One membership, and Amazon Prime membership. You can get 4 lines for $120.
See the plans at metrobyt-mobile.com/cell-phone-plans.
Amazing coverage area
All Metro plans also offer access to T-Mobile’s nationwide 5G network, which is the largest 5G network in the country. To see the coverage in your area, go to metrobyt-mobile.com/coverage/coverage-map and search by address or location.
Responsive customer service
Moreover, Metro also offers a reliable and responsive customer support service. Contact them by phone at 888-8-METRO-8 or *611 from your Metro phone. See other contact options at metrobyt-mobile.com/contact-us.
Can I Use Metro Phone Without Activation?
You can use your phone, tablet, or any other device without activation. Simply charge it, turn it on, connect it to the Wi-Fi and use the apps. You will be able to make phone calls and send text messages via apps that use an internet connection to function. However, you won’t be able to place or answer phone calls or text through your SIM card. You also won’t be able to use your Metro monthly data or use any Metro services whatsoever.
You can read one of our past articles T-Mobile SIM Card Activation Guide
What Should You Check Before Starting the Phone Activation Process
Metro by T-Mobile is a popular and reputable wireless provider with many customers all over the country. As you can see, it offers many benefits. Nonetheless, before you commit to its services, you should take certain factors into consideration and then decide whether or not the provider is a good fit for you.
- Check the Coverage and Available Network: No wireless service, no matter how great, is worth a thing if it doesn’t offer coverage in your area. As such make sure if Metro’s T-Mobile network is available in your area at metrobyt-mobile.com/coverage/coverage-map.
- Best Customer Service: Customers tend to be satisfied with Metro’s customer service. The company offers numerous contact options, including by phone, by mail, in-store, or via online chat. You can read more and find the contact details at metrobyt-mobile.com/contact-us.
- Check Whether There Are Hidden Charges: Metro may charge you certain fees for certain services. For example, they may charge you a $20 activation fee per line and additional fees to add lines. The company may also charge fees when you swap phones.
- Check Compatibility: If you are planning to bring your own device to Metro, you must check your existing phone’s compatibility with Metro’s network and services. Check compatibility at metrobyt-mobile.com/self-service/bring-your-phone.
- Compare Plans With Other Providers: Above, you can see Metro’s service plans. To make the most informed decision possible, also check other providers’ plans and benefits and compare them with Metro’s. This way you will surely find a service that best fits your needs.
MetroPCS Phone Activation Related FAQs
How Long Does the MetroPCS Phone Take to Activate?
After completing either one of the activation processes above, your MetroPCS phone will activate immediately.
Do I Need to Activate a MetroPCS Replacement Phone?
No, if you have received or purchased a replacement phone from Metro and if you are already a Metro customer, then you will simply have to remove your Metro SIM card from your old device and install it into your replacement device. Then, turn on the new device and start using the services.
Can I Activate My Tablet Using the Online Activation Tool?
No, it’s best to activate your tablet by calling Metro’s customer support service or by visiting a store.
How Can I Tell if My MetroPCS Phone Is Unlocked by IMEI?
Yes, you can check if your phone is unlocked and compatible with Metro’s services by visiting metrobyt-mobile.com/shop/phones/details/Metro-by-T-Mobile-SIM-Card/NC128TRIPLESIM?icid=MTPR_MTW_U_BYDMCEVGRN_UBJWBENNYCDL673GS29143 and entering your IMEI number in the provided search box.
How Do I Get My MetroPCS Phone’s IMEI?
You can get your phone’s IMEI by dialing *#06# on your Metro or by searching for the number under the phone’s battery.
If I’m an Existing Customer, Can I Use the Online Activation Tool to Activate a New Line?
No, the online activation tool does not assist existing customers. For an existing customer to add a line to their account, they must visit a Metro store or call the company’s customer care at 1-888-8metro8.
If I Bought a Phone From Another Provider, Could I Use MetroPCS to Activate It?
Yes, you can activate an unlocked and compatible phone on Metro’s network. To do so, follow the instructions for activating devices from other providers above.
How Do I Know if My Phone Is Compatible With Metro?
You can check if your phone is unlocked and compatible with Metro by visiting metrobyt-mobile.com/shop/phones/details/Metro-by-T-Mobile-SIM-Card/NC128TRIPLESIM?icid=MTPR_MTW_U_BYDMCEVGRN_UBJWBENNYCDL673GS29143 and entering your phone’s IMEI in the provided box. The system will immediately notify you of whether or not your device is Metro compatible.
I Am Bringing My Own Device to Metro by T-Mobile and Want to Keep My Phone Number. Can I Do That Using the Online Activation Tool?
Yes. First, you must make sure your phone is compatible. Then, purchase a Metro SIM card, select a rate plan, and have your phone and the phone’s IMEI ready. Then, you can use the online activation tool or another activation process to activate your device.
What Special Deals Does MetroPCS Offer Right Now?
Metro by T-Mobile or MetroPCS often offers appealing deals on cell phones (including Samsung, Motorola, and Apple phones), plans, and other connected devices. The company’s special offers change and update on a regular basis and they are subject to location and availability. Nevertheless, Metro currently offers a large selection of prepaid 5G phones completely free of charge. Check the provider’s current deals at metrobyt-mobile.com/shop/deals.
Can I Upgrade My Metro Phone for Free?
Once you buy a Metro phone, you automatically qualify for a promotional (discounted) upgrade every 90 days after you activate the device, which makes you eligible for a low-cost upgrade up to 4 times a year.