I love using the MetroPCS network because of its reliability and affordable cellular service plans. But I’ve always liked the functionality of T-Mobile phones. Transferring the MetroPCS SIM card to a new T-Mobile phone should retain your information, preferences, and settings but also give you the benefit of using a phone with better features.
Switching a MetroPCS SIM card to an existing T-Mobile phone seems like an easy change, but will my phone still work on the same network after the switch?
Using a MetroPCS SIM card in a T-Mobile phone is possible as long as the SIM card is the right size and your phone is unlocked. Because the same parent company manages MetroPCS and T-Mobile, the SIM card will work on the T-Mobile network. Check the unique IMEI number for your phone before switching SIM cards to ensure your T-Mobile phone is compatible.
While both MetroPCS and T-Mobile offer affordable plans for cellular service, expect to incur additional charges after switching from MetroPCS to T-Mobile. You may have to upgrade your plan to get faster speeds or better coverage.
Are MetroPCS and T-Mobile the Same Company?
The main reason a MetroPCS SIM card will work in a T-Mobile phone is that the two companies have merged into one. T-Mobile has been the parent company of MetroPCS since 2013. In 2018, MetroPCS rebranded to become Metro by T-Mobile.
Because the companies are merged, MetroPCS customers can enjoy using the T-Mobile network. Using a MetroPCS SIM card in a T-Mobile phone simply uses the same network connection and will usually work seamlessly.
Does Your SIM Card Fit?
Before attempting to switch your SIM card to a T-Mobile phone, you need first to determine if your SIM card is the right size. There are three different SIM card sizes: a standard sim, micro-sim, and nano-sim. These cards are custom catered to fit into different size slots on the side of your phone.
If you aren’t sure of your SIM card size, you can always try to buy a SIM adapter. This device will help you better fit your SIM card to your phone’s port size.
Another alternative is to purchase a MetroPCS universal SIM card. Using just one SIM card with multiple adapters, you’ll be able to keep your phone number and SIM card information while custom-fitting the SIM into any size slot on your mobile phone.
Is My Phone Compatible with the T-Mobile Network?
It’s essential first to confirm your mobile phone is compatible with the T-Mobile network. To do this, you’ll need to locate an identification number called an IMEI Number. This number is a particular 15-digit number that is unique to your mobile phone.
You’ll need to dial *#06# to retrieve your individual IMEI number or check your phone settings to find your IMEI number.
- iPhone – On an iPhone, you’ll need to go to Settings and then go into the General menu. Select About, and your phone’s special IMEI Number is listed.
- Android – Using your Android, you’ll want to first go to Settings. Then, navigate to About phone, and select the Status menu to locate the IMEI Number.
Once you have your IMEI Number, you’ll be able to determine if your particular phone is able to connect to the T-Mobile Network.
How Can I Unlock My T-Mobile Phone?
A MetroPCS SIM card will only work in a T-Mobile phone if you have an unlocked phone. Unlocking your phone will allow you to use a different SIM card to browse the internet and make telephone calls.
Luckily, it is fairly easy to unlock your phone, depending on the operating system you use and your brand of phone.
Android Devices
If you are using an Android phone, there is a special MetroPCS unlocking app. To unblock your phone using the app, you should:
- Connection – Ensure your phone is connected to either WiFi or a data network to utilize the app.
- App – Open the App on your phone by either selecting the app from your home screen or searching for a folder titled “Metro by T-Mobile.”
- Device Unlock – Select Device Unlock, and then select continue. Under this option, you’ll want to tap to select “Permanent Unlock.”
- Restart – After selecting “Permanent Unlock,” you’ll want to restart your phone.
iPhone Devices
If you have an iPhone, you will not be able to use the unlock app. Instead, you’ll likely need a customer service agent from either T-Mobile or MetroPCS to help unlock your phone. When you contact customer service, be sure you have all the necessary information, like an email address and your PIN, to make the process go smoothly.
The T-Mobile customer service support agent will process the request to unlock your phone and send you an unlock code in about three business days. Use the code and instructions to complete unlocking your iPhone.
Of course, you can always visit a brick-and-mortar T-Mobile store in person to unlock your phone. Visiting in person is an excellent idea if you aren’t particularly tech-savvy or if you run into problems or receive an error message in the process of attempting to unlock your phone using the app.
Will MetroPCS Be Able To Unlock My Phone?
While unlocking your phone is an easy process, you’ll need to make sure your phone is compatible with the available T-Mobile services and meets the minimum requirements. To ensure your phone can be unlocked, you’ll need to make sure of the following:
- Carrier – Ensure your phone has the correct carrier service. You’ll have to be signed on with MetroPCS services in order to make a request with customer service to have your phone unlocked.
- Activity – In order to submit a request to have your phone unlocked, you’ll have to be a regular customer with MetroPCS. You must be an active customer for 180 consecutive days to have your phone unlocked.
- Email – To receive your unlocking code, you’ll have to have an active email that MetroPCS can communicate through. Be sure you monitor the mailbox and have the correct login information to retrieve your specialized unlocking code.
Is Your Plan Correct?
Before using a MetroPCS plan on a T-Mobile phone, you must ensure your plan is compatible. Although the two companies cooperate with one another and are owned by the same parent company, their cellular service plans and prices are not interchangeable.
Before switching to a new T-Mobile phone, be sure that your cellular service plan is appropriate and will give you enough coverage. It makes sense to call customer service to check and update your plan if necessary before unlocking your phone and changing the SIM card.
Should I Expect Limitations When Switching SIM Cards?
While MetroPCS uses the same network as T-Mobile, there is the chance that you could experience limited coverage once you switch to a T-Mobile phone. Many users report getting less coverage with the cellular network.
Further, some customers report a slower operating rate. Loading internet pages and running specific applications may take longer than usual once you switch the SIM card to a T-Mobile phone.
To help alleviate this problem, ensure you’re connected to the 4G LTE network on T-Mobile before changing the SIM card. This network promises fast processing speeds and broader coverage which may help your mobile phone run more efficiently.
Does It Cost More To Use a MetroPCS SIM Card?
While switching a SIM card from a MetroPCS phone to a T-Mobile phone is easy, you should anticipate additional charges to maintain fast and reliable connectivity. Even though your MetroPCS plan may have given you fast internet speed and reliable connectivity, many users report degraded service after switching to a T-Mobile phone.
Activating your T-Mobile phone with a MetroPCS SIM card might require the purchase of some extra airtime. Further, expect to pay additional monthly application service fees and download fees. Usually, these monthly fees are non-refundable.
Help From Contact Support
Switching your SIM card from a MetroPCS phone to a T-Mobile phone can be complicated, especially if your phone is not already unlocked. Remember that MetroPCS and T-Mobile have valuable customer support teams that can help support the transition.
If you run into technical complications, be sure to reach out to either the Metro or the T-Mobile team. A professional will be able to assist you either over the phone or in person at a traditional brick-and-mortar store.
