Straight Talk, a carrier formed from a partnership between Walmart and Tracfone, is now allowing users who bring smartphones capable with AT&T's LTE network to use the 4G data service.
And unlike some other services, you'll be able to use a device purchased directly from AT&T that's still locked to the network on Straight Talk. Of course, most phones purchased from AT&T come with a two-year contract — you'll need to complete the contract or pay an early termination fee to switch.
Today's move by Straight Talk comes after AT&T opened up its LTE network to its own Aio Wireless prepaid brand, which the company is working to expand nationwide after purchasing another competitor in the space, Cricket Wireless. If you're considering making the switch, keep in mind that coverage can be rough at times, and "unlimited" isn't really unlimited as the carrier will throttle heavy users.
NEED HELP ACTIVATING YOUR SIM? HERE’S HOW
THE BEGINNER'S GUIDE TO STRAIGHT TALK SIM CARDS.
So, you’ve signed up for Straight Talk and are ready to activate your cell phone. If you purchased a Straight Talk phone, it already comes with the SIM you need. However, if you decided to keep your current phone, you have to purchase a SIM card and install it before you can activate your device. But don’t worry – it’s a quick and easy process.
PURCHASING A SIM
The first step is to make sure your phone is compatible with Straight Talk. It needs to either be a compatible AT&T device or an unlocked GSM device. Not sure if yours is compatible or not? You can check it online. If it is, you can go ahead and pick up a Straight Talk Keep Your Own Phone Kit.
INSTALLING YOUR SIM
To install your SIM, you’ll first have to remove your current one. If you have an Android device, this means you need to remove the back panel of your phone in order to access it. If you have an iOS device, you’ll have to open the tiny tray on the side of the phone. Then, simply replace the old SIM card with the new one. The gold area should be placed down, and the notched corner should line up in the correct position.
ACTIVATING YOUR SIM
Now that your SIM is all set, it’s time to activate your phone. There are two ways to do this.
- Go to StraightTalk.com.
- Call 1-855-222-2355.
Keep all the materials you might need in front of you. This includes your phone, your SIM card packaging, and your Straight Talk Unlimited 30-Day service plan card. If you don’t have a service plan card, have your debit card or credit card ready to purchase one during the activation process. Whether you activate online or over the phone, the prompts will help guide you to make the process simple.
If you're an existing customer, please provide us with your Straight Talk MEID DEC / Serial Number and or your Straight Talk Cell Phone Number when contacting us so we can give you the best possible service.