Connecting cell phones unlocked by manufacturers or third parties to your current mobile service isn’t too hard, as long as you find that your cellular service provider is willing to cooperate. Most modern cell phones use a technology called a SIM card, which stores all of your cell phone’s information on one small chip. If your old phone has a SIM card and your new (used) phone has a SIM card slot, you can switch your cell phone without your phone company ever knowing. Just put your old SIM card in the used cell phone’s slot, turn it on, and your used cell phone should work seamlessly with your current service.

If you don’t have a SIM card, activating your new phone may take some more time. Call your customer service line and speak to a representative to let them know you want to switch your current service to a new cell phone. They should be able to explain exactly how to do this. Beware that they may try to talk you into purchasing one of their phones – you are not required to, and you should tell them you know this. Point out that you have already purchased one of the readily available unlocked cellular phones, and if they aren’t willing to provide you service, they are violating your mobile contract, and you can move to a new provider without penalty.