FAQs

• How do I get started with BYOD on U.S. Cellular? +

  First, validate that the device is compatible with the U.S. Cellular Network. Then, verify that your compatible device is unlocked by contacting your current carrier before cancelling your existing service. U.S. Cellular is unable to unlock devices from other carriers and your device must be unlocked prior to activation on the U.S. Cellular network. If your device displays a message like "SIM Not Valid" or "SIM Not Recognized," when a U.S Cellular SIM is installed into it, then your device is locked and it must be unlocked by the carrier that locked it.
• How do I activate a BYOD device and get a SIM card? +

  Once you know your BYOD device is eligible to bring on to our network, you can place your order online to have a SIM card shipped to you, or you can visit your local U.S. Cellular store for activation and a SIM card.
• Can I keep my existing phone number? +

  Yes, you can keep your existing phone number when bringing your own device to U.S. Cellular. To keep your existing number, do not cancel service with your existing carrier before activating service with U.S. Cellular.
• Can I bring an iPhone to U.S. Cellular that was purchased outside of the United States? +

  iPhones purchased outside of the United States are not eligible for activation on the U.S. Cellular network.
• What cell phone and data plans are available with BYOD? +

  Any of our current calling and data plans, including unlimited and prepaid plans, are eligible in our BYOD program.
• Can I bring my own device that was not purchased from U.S. Cellular? +

  First, validate that the device is a make and model that is compatible with the U.S. Cellular network. Second, make sure that you are purchasing an unlocked device. After you have purchased your compatible device, place your order online or visit your nearest U.S. Cellular store to obtain a U.S. Cellular SIM card and select a U.S. Cellular service plan.
• Can I re-activate a used device that was previously purchased from U.S. Cellular? +

  Yes, we welcome re-activation of devices. However, Analog, TDMA, and Non-GPS capable devices are ineligible for activation. Devices reported as lost or stolen are also ineligible for activation.
• Why isn't my device eligible for the U.S. Cellular BYOD program? +

  Not all devices are designed to work across all networks. Due to this, some devices are not eligible.
• If my device is not compatible with the U.S. Cellular network, do I have another option? +

  Yes, our Trade-in Program allows you to trade-in your incompatible device and receive credit towards the purchase of any new U.S. Cellular device.
• Can I obtain Device Protection+ for a device that I did not purchase from U.S. Cellular or an authorized U.S. Cellular retailer? +

  No, only devices purchased from U.S. Cellular or an authorized U.S. Cellular retailer are eligible for Device Protection+.
• Is AppleCare service transferable on my device that I bring to U.S Cellular? +

  Yes, your existing AppleCare service will remain active when you bring your device to U.S. Cellular.