Are you thinking about switching to Cricket Wireless? You might wonder if you can keep your current phone. The good news is that many phones work with Cricket’s network.
Cricket is compatible with a wide range of unlocked GSM phones, including models from Apple, Samsung, Google, Nokia, and Motorola. To use your phone with Cricket, it needs to be unlocked and able to connect to AT&T’s network. Cricket uses AT&T’s cell towers to provide service.
Before making the switch, you’ll want to check if your specific phone model is compatible. Cricket offers an online tool to help you figure this out. You can also look for phones that support HD Voice and 4G LTE to get the best call quality and data speeds on Cricket’s network.
Cricket Wireless Service Overview
Cricket uses AT&T’s network for its service. This includes 4G LTE and 5G coverage in many areas. To use Cricket, your phone needs to be compatible with AT&T’s network bands.
Cricket also offers HD Voice on compatible devices. This gives you clearer calls when talking to other Cricket or AT&T customers. Not all phones support HD Voice, so check if yours does before switching.
To use Cricket’s service, you’ll need a Cricket SIM card. This small chip goes in your phone and connects it to the network. You can get a SIM card when you sign up for service.
Compatible Phones for Cricket Service
Cricket Wireless supports a variety of smartphones and devices, including both those sold directly by Cricket and those that can be brought from other carriers.
Here’s a detailed overview of compatible phones for Cricket service:
Cricket-Sold Phones
Cricket offers several HD Voice-capable smartphones from various manufacturers. Here are some examples:
- Apple iPhones (iPhone SE, iPhone 12, and newer models)
- Samsung Galaxy phone series
- Motorola Moto G phone series
- Nokia phones
- Alcatel and ZTE models
Bring Your Own Device (BYOD)
To use your own device on Cricket, it must be HD Voice capable and compatible with Cricket’s network. Most new HD Voice devices purchased from AT&T since 2019 are generally compatible. Here are key points to consider:
- Unlocked Devices: Your phone must be unlocked to work on Cricket. If it’s currently locked to another carrier, you can request an unlock from that carrier if you meet their criteria.
- Model Compatibility: Specific models from AT&T and T-Mobile are often recommended. For instance: iPhone 6 and newer are typically compatible, Samsung Galaxy A series or recent Galaxy S series.
In summary, a wide range of smartphones can be used with Cricket Wireless, particularly those from Apple and Samsung. Always ensure that the device is unlocked and HD Voice capable to guarantee compatibility with Cricket’s network.
Checking Device Compatibility
To see if your phone works with Cricket, you’ll need its IMEI number. Find this in your phone’s settings or by dialing *#06#. Go to Cricket’s website and enter the IMEI. This checks if your device is compatible and unlocked.
Not all phones will work on Cricket. The phone must support HD Voice and Cricket’s network bands. These include LTE bands 2, 4, 5, 12, 14, 29, 30, and 66.
Unlocked phones from AT&T often work well. T-Mobile and Verizon phones may also be compatible if they’re unlocked and support the right bands.
Always check compatibility before buying a new phone for Cricket service. This ensures you’ll get full network features and data speeds.
Activating Your Phone on Cricket
Once you have a compatible phone, activating it is simple:
- Get a Cricket SIM card
- Choose a rate plan
- Insert the SIM into your phone
- Follow the activation steps on Cricket’s website or app
You may need to adjust your phone’s APN settings. Cricket’s customer support can help if you have trouble.
Remember, BYOD phones must be activated on an eligible rate plan. Some features like Wi-Fi calling might not work on all devices.
If you have issues, contact Cricket’s customer support. They can check your device ID and help troubleshoot any problems.