Smartphones are the most reliable companion of every modern-day man, allowing us to achieve any damn goal with a single click. The present fast-paced world demands instant solutions. Therefore, being confined to a mobile network that fails to meet this object can be extremely frustrating. If you are overwhelmed with slow data speed, dropped calls, and escalating phone bills, then it’s time you switch phone carriers!
Incorporating this change is simple and convenient as users can now keep phone number when switching carriers as well. However, there are certain factors and reasons to consider before finalizing this decision. This blog aims to identify such aspects, helping you to switch phone carriers proficiently. Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
How to Switch Phone Carriers?
The notion of switching over to a new carrier network may seem complicated at first as there are multiple factors, like coverage area, price of data bundles, network strength, etc., that must be acknowledged [more on that later]. However, the process of the switch is quite straightforward. Here is what you need to do:
A. Connect with the New Carrier Network
Smartphone users must make initial contact with the new carrier network selected. Individuals may choose to connect with the concerned carrier customer support team, visit the official carrier network website, or physically visit the nearest carrier store at their convenience. Connecting with the carrier customer support team should be preferred as all your doubts can be directly addressed by a specialist.
B. Purchase and Activate new SIM card
Users must now purchase a new SIM card by making the payment upfront or online. The purchased SIM card will be mailed to your registered residential address, upon which it must be activated by inserting it into the smartphone concerned.
C. Select a Data Plan and Update Information
Pick a data plan that serves all your needs and provide phone-related information to the new carrier network to effectively keep phone number switch carriers. Users must ensure that the data bundle selected also complements their budget. Additional information about the mobile device in use, the IMEI number, user name, user address, payment information, account, and phone number of the old carrier must also be revealed.
Your new SIM card under the updated carrier network should be up and running after fulfilling all the requirements stated above.
Related Article: From Physical to eSIM: Know All about iPhone SIM Cards
Reason to Switch Phone Carriers
Making the decision to switch phone carriers entirely depends on the user’s needs and demands. However, there are some fundamental reasons that contribute to this aspect. They are:
A. Escalating Phone Bills
Due to the advancement in the field of mobile technology and the introduction of the 5G network, the prices of data bundles have been steadily rising. The general audience is obsessed with the internet as people around the world have completely shifted to online content consumption through OTT and social media platforms. This is the primary reason why some carrier companies choose to work with expensive data plans.
To build a competitive edge in the market, other carrier companies try to incorporate flexible data plans that are more user-friendly and affordable. Thus, it is essential that every independent smartphone user track and monitor their data requirements. This aspect will help them to effectively identify carrier networks that offer service that complements their data-driven needs.
B. Outdated Carrier Services
Being open to the concept of change is not necessarily an unfavorable option. Maintaining brand loyalty can sometimes prove to be a limitation, as established carrier companies often choose to work with the same standards without adapting to the customer’s needs. This notion stands true in the ever-evolving telecommunications industry as the dynamics of the market segment are constantly changing with new technologies. Thus, opting to switch phone carriers can benefit a user in the long run.
C. Inadequate Carrier Assistance
Carrier networks have to offer dynamic services to keep up with the evolving demands of the target audience. Issues regarding poor network reach, coverage, unavailable customer support, and international roaming might be the final straw to switch phone carriers for many. Modern customers are spoilt for choices as there are multiple options in the market.
D. Change in Personal Preference
The change in personal preferences of customers is often the trigger to switch phone carriers. The outbreak of a global pandemic altered the entire corporate landscape as people were forced to remain indoors.
Likewise, the concept of working from remote locations was adopted, where individuals could stay connected online and fulfill their professional responsibilities from the comfort of their homes. Most of the users, therefore, preferred to work with Wi-Fi established at home. Consequently, the reliance on mobile data diminished, which also compelled individuals to opt for carrier networks that offered flexible data plans at affordable rates.
E. Relocation Plans
Moving to a different country compels users to switch phone carriers. Working with domestic carrier firms allows users to access better coverage minus all the additional roaming expenses.
What happens when you switch your SIM card to another phone?
A SIM card is responsible for providing a distinct identity to a mobile phone user by allocating a unique number, which is used to initiate and receive calls. When an individual switches SIM card to another device, the following observations are recorded:
The Assigned Phone Number Always Follows the SIM Card
A SIM card contains all the account-related information, and it serves as a memory card that records the user’s identity in the form of a phone number. When a phone call is made to a distinct number, the call travels through the mobile network and connects with the SIM microchip to initiate.
Therefore, a SIM card helps to connect calls and messages to the assigned number no matter the mobile device used. In other words, the phone number is a distinct property of the SIM card which cannot be separated.
Using a Smartphone without a SIM card
When a user ejects the SIM card from a mobile device, all the data, such as messages, applications, pictures, contacts, etc., remains intact on the phone. Users do not have to worry about losing data while switching SIM cards. However, applications that require internet access will no longer be operational without mobile data provisions, which are effectively harnessed by a SIM card.
Moreover, users will not be able to receive or make phone calls on the device without the presence of an active SIM card. Once the registered SIM is reinserted into the concerned device, users will be able to avail all the amenities that a conventional mobile device has to offer when paired with an active SIM.
Therefore, while switching a SIM card to another phone, users must transfer all the stored data to the alternate device so that it can be accessed accordingly. Seeking assistance from experts to successfully transfer data is highly recommended.
What happens when you replace your SIM card?
SIM cards are susceptible to damage and prone to being lost or misplaced as they are small in size with not-so-robust features. Therefore, replacing SIM cards is a very common phenomenon that is practiced by every smartphone user. However, the process of replacing a SIM card is straightforward and equivalent to switching a phone. Mobile phone users also have an additional option where they can keep phone numbers when switching carriers as well.
All you need to do is purchase a new SIM card by following the steps mentioned earlier and wait for it to activate. If a user purchases a SIM card backed with the same phone number, then it automatically allows the individual concerned to access all the contacts stored on the old SIM. On the other hand, working with a new SIM card and mobile number does not offer contact back-up amenities. Users can freely initiate and receive calls/messages when a SIM card is replaced.
Switch Phone Carriers – Factors to Consider
Before you switch phone carriers, there are a few factors that must be acknowledged so that you get long-term returns. They are:
A. The Carrier Coverage Area
Checking the coverage map of the selected carrier network is essential for every user. If your location does not fall under the coverage map, then it’s better to collaborate with an alternate network. Therefore, ensure that complete coverage around your residential apartment and office space is maintained throughout.
B. Compatibility with the Phone
Individuals using old mobile phones often face issues connecting with carrier networks. Therefore, users must check the compatibility of the mobile device by verifying the IMEI number on the official website of the selected carrier company.
Users must also make sure that the mobile phone in use is not bound by a contract with the previous carrier service provider. If a contract exists, then the smartphone will be locked, and the user will not be able to pair the device with a new SIM card.
C. Identify the Best Data Plan
Individuals must monitor and track their mobile use and data consumption patterns so that the perfect data bundle can be identified and purchased. Going through the terms and services can also help users gain more ideas about the new carrier network and data packages on offer. Conducting a side-by-side comparison with other networks will also help you to make a sound decision.
D. Verify the Cost of Switching
Being involved in a contract with a carrier network significantly increases the cost of switching. Conventionally, a termination fee is charged to discontinue the services offered by the carrier concerned. However, if there is no involvement of a contract, then the overall cost of switching networks will be minimal. Seek assistance from your present carrier firm to avail more information.
Learn more about SIM cards: SIM-Only vs. Contract – Personalize Your Cell Phone Plan.
Getting a new SIM card for your Phone
If you are looking to switch phone carriers, then Talk Home Mobile should be right on top of your list. Talk Home operates on EE’s network, offering the widest coverage reach in the UK. Moreover, Talk Home works with a wide range of data plans designed to meet the independent demands of every user. Affordability and convenience are synonymous with Talk Home’s PAYG plans, starting at 1p.
Experience blazing-fast 5G internet speed enhanced with free roaming in all EU countries. Check the official website of Talk Home Mobile to learn more.
Conclusion
There you have it! Consider the aspects mentioned above before making the final decision to switch carrier networks. We recommend our readers to conduct thorough online research before making the final decision.
For immediate solutions, be sure to choose the Talk Home network. Join hands with the Talk Home team to experience efficiency like never before.
FAQs
Can I keep my phone number if I switch carriers?
Yes, users can retain their present phone numbers while switching carrier networks. However, this aspect can only be fulfilled while being present in the same geographical location.
Can you keep your phone number if you switch carriers?
Yes, users can retain their current phone numbers [provided they are in the same geographical location] by initiating the phone number porting process.
