Activate My Phone Online - How To Activate This Phone! by Curtis McCoy

Cheapest Cell Phone Plans

Online Activation – Bring Your Own Phone (BYOP) Allowed!

Activate this phone you have or you can buy a new phone to activate online as well. Before we continue, be sure to have your current information handy. We make it simple to activate your phone service online today, even if you don’t know how to activate a phone yet. Have you asked yourself, “Can I learn how to activate a phone”? Yes, you can. We can help if you want!

We understand how scary it can seem trying to get your new service up and running. Before we get started, let’s answer a few common questions we hear the most.

Will I know how to activate my new phone?

Best Cellular makes online phone activation simple. The easy step-by-step process will help you with your phone activation. Activate your own phone online or let us help you!

Is there a number to call to activate my phone?

Call our customer service number to learn how to activate a phone. We’re always happy to help with your phone activation. Call 970-549-2378 and one of our trained staff members will be happy to assist you. Just simply ask them to help you activate this phone and within minutes you will be able to use your new service.

Is it hard to activate a new phone if it is from another company?

We allow BYOD phone activation so activating a new phone or activating an old phone is simple with our online activation process. If you want to port your number over from an old carrier, the activation process may take a while longer. but it can definitely be done so you can keep your phone number!

Now, let’s move on with more information on activating your phone online.

Can I activate my phone online or will I need help?

Activating your device with Best Cellular is easy with our simple-to-use activation portal. We understand the bond people have with their cellphone which is why we go above and beyond making it possible for bringing your own device over to our prepaid network.

It doesn’t matter what carrier you were with, you can bring any phone from almost every carrier over to our service where you will get quality service, with NO credit check, NO contract and NEVER any hidden fees.

We don’t have pushy salespeople trying to get you to buy a new phone. We applaud you for having the perfect phone just for you. If you think you may want to update your phone, we can help you with this as well.

Be sure to check out the “locate” tab on our website to find a dealer close to you. It’s simple to do, all you need to do is enter your zip code and let us do the rest. If you are more comfortable talking with a dealer in person, then by all means, meet the staff and let them get you up and running.

If you live near a Best Cellular dealer, keep your business local! Our dealers offer the following:

• BYOD wireless activations


• Free phone activation


• Help in buying SIM cards


• Set up new service designed just for you.

If you require a new phone, most dealers have lots of great phones in stock! This section of the site is for customers looking to activate your phone online.

How to Activate a Phone – Activate My Phone

Are you ready to activate your device and start enjoying the clear quality service of Best Cellular? Our online activation portal makes its simple for anyone to use. With you bringing your own phone and using our system that will walk you through step-by-step will have you up and talking in minutes.

Can I Save My Contacts and Pictures before transferring?

Yes, you can! Switching to a better carrier won’t change any settings on your phone. The phone doesn’t need to be flashed and activating with Best Cellular. It doesn’t make any difference or delete data from the phone. We make it simple!

Just follow the simple steps below. Be sure you have your SIM card inserted with the power on BEFORE you do your online activation.

Ordered Online?

If you chose to upgrade your phone with one of our phones we sell in our online store, you would need to activate your new service once you receive your package containing the phone and SIM card.

BestCellular.com/activate

Didn’t purchase directly from Best Cellular?

If you bought a Cell phone through a different business, follow the steps below on activation. Activating your cellular device with Best Cellular is the best decision you could have made for better quality no matter where you travel through the U.S. Our team of professionals has training on how to activate phones from any carrier.

Anyone with basic computer skills can activate a phone online from the comfort of home. You can Keep your number or get a new one. Our online phone activation portal gives you a choice. If you need any assistance with your phone activation, we offer free 24/7 customer service to teach you how to activate a phone.

Just like with our stellar cell service, we strive to make life simple for our clients through our website. Secure purchases, easy transferring, and congratulating you for choosing the Best Cellular service for all the U.S.

Can I Keep My Phone Number?

Absolutely! You are welcomed to keep your existing number, or we can provide you with a new one. When you take advantage of our online activation, we can port your current number from any company without you losing any data on your phone.

Our online activation portal will help you submit the information necessary to port your phone number from your previous carrier. If you need a new phone number, we can do that too. We offer free phone numbers on all new activations. You can even change your number after activating if you need. There is no charge or any fees to keep your number or get a new one.

You will need to make sure you have all your account information from your previous carrier and that your bill is current and up to date.

The Best Nationwide Coverage!

Now that you have made the switch to Best Cellular, here is the icing on the cake! Best Cellular uses EVERY tower from EVERY major carrier in the USA. No more dropped or missed calls. No more static or tunnel noises. Just clear quality service wherever you travel Best Cellular can almost always find you the best prepaid wireless coverage in your area.

No matter where you go in the USA, if there is a cell tower from any of the four major US Carriers, we have access to it– giving us the ability to provide you the best-prepaid service nationwide. By having access to the best technology for cell towers, our team of professionals will help you determine which carrier works best in your area.

We will guide you in determining which cell service works best in your area because we want you to have the best quality service available in your area. No matter where you travel, you will always have the strongest signal regardless of where you live or go.

If a customer moves or travels frequently, we can switch you to a different network with a compatible device. With Best Cellular, you can change carriers whenever you feel the need. In fact, you’ve never had more options for coverage from one company.

Bring Your Own Device Wireless (BYOD Wireless)

Is your phone from another carrier? You can use the same phone you have no matter what carrier you utilized in the past. You can activate your phone from any carrier (BYOP). In fact, we suggest that you keep the same phone you have unless it’s just old and outdated. Saving money on your phone bill is what we can help you accomplish.

To do this, you need to purchase a SIM card, and you are ready to roll! Best Cellular not only allows you to keep another carrier’s phone, but we also encourage it. Our team is built around value and saving our customers money. By using your current phone is the perfect way to accomplish that!

You will never feel pressure from a salesperson trying to talk you into buying a phone from Best Cellular. Our goal is to make our customers happy, and it that means you are keeping your existing phone and joining our thousands of loyal customers, well, welcome home!

Bring Your Own Phone to Activate on the Best Cellular Nationwide Network!

 

Here is the bottom line. Our team wants you to get all you deserve from your cellular company. We are working people just like you, and we understand the importance of having a cell company that has your back no matter where you are.

Feel free to bring your own device and activate it online. If you need our help, we are always available to help you pick the perfect plan that fits your needs. Never anymore or any less. Our trained staff will help you choose the right plan, SIM card, or anything else you feel you need.

You will always hear a friendly voice providing excellent customer service, and guaranteed quality cell service. No Contracts, NO credit checks and NEVER any hidden fees.

Best Cellular is a BYOD network that allows you to activate your own phone online or in our retail stores nationwide. There are no hidden fees or extra charges when you pay your bill. It doesn’t matter if you pay online, set up auto-pay, call our 24-hour customer service, or visit a local retailer! We are here to help you!

We always recommend keeping business local and supporting your local economy! Visit your local Best Cellular dealer if there’s one in your town! Don’t settle for less! You deserve the Best!

Best Cellular Service in Eckerty, IN 47116

The unincorporated community of Eckerty, in Crawford County, is a cozy town offering family value to those who reside and visit. Johnson Township, Eckerty, IN received its name from its founder Mr. Christopher Eckerty in 1873. Being such a small community, your friends at Best Cellular understand that you need the best cell service available to get ahold of friends and neighbors. We researched the Best Cellular Service in Eckerty, IN 47116 and also found the following details about this quaint town.

Although it is not a large community, Eckerty still offers locals some amazing places to eat, such as the Schwartz Family Restuarant, Patoka Lake Pub "n" Grub, Somewhere on Patoka Lake, The Ridge Restaurant at Wickliffe, and the Eckerty Café. Locals and visitors enjoy other exciting things as well in and around Eckerty, IN. These include events such as theater, food, wine, and art festival, beaches and lakes, farmers markets, movies, and amusement and water parks. The Old Eckerty Days always promises loads of fun for the whole family. The festival takes place annually in the town of Eckerty. It offers a parade, arts and crafts, old-time demonstrations and an ice cream eating contest. There is usually live music as well!

The Best Cellular coverage for Eckerty, IN 47116

We have found the best carrier for folks in and around Eckerty, IN 47116. Due to all the lakes around, you will probably have problems keeping your service active with more than a couple of bars on most carriers. However, we did find that for this area, the “Big Red” (Best Cellular CDMA) carrier will be your best options for cellular service. Keep in mind that Best Cellular has no reason to mislead you with a particular carrier. That"s because we offer service through three of the major nationwide carriers. We also want you to know when you make the switch to Best Cellular you no longer need to worry about losing service due to lack of towers! Best Cellular ensures coverage no matter where you travel throughout the U.S.! We can provide this stellar service because we use every tower across the states. Of course, very few cellular companies can make you this promise.

Do you have a phone you want to keep and make your switch to Best Cellular? No problem! We encourage you to use your current phone as you take advantage of the continuous service we offer. If you want to keep your current phone number, we can handle that as well. Just remember that you must have ALL the details of your current carrier account. This includes any pin number and correct address on file. Make sure your old account is paid in full with no past-due balances. Your phone line must still be active and your phone cannot be locked by the carrier in any way. If you want a new number, Best Cellular can provide you with a new one.

Best Cellular also wants you to know you can do all the steps necessary to get you switched over right through our easy-to-navigate website. You can order your new SIM card, port your number, pay your bill, order a new phone or accessories with ease on BestCellular.com. We make life simple for you! However, if you find you need further assistance our always-friendly staff is ready to get you started. Our staff takes pride in how fast our company is growing by leaps and bounds. We want to share our quality service with you. With Best Cellular, there are no credit checks, no contracts and never any hassle. Just pick the right package for you, activate and enjoy a quality service no matter where you are in the U.S. We welcome you to the Best Cellular family.

How To Activate New Phones

Welcome to the online phone activation portal. We are happy that you have chosen Best Cellular! We get emails daily with people asking, “How do I activate my phone?” This article will show you how to activate a phone on Best Cellular, whether you bought a new one or brought your own.

How to Activate a Phone

Learn how to activate a phone. You probably found this page by searching something like, “How do I activate my phone online?” Click the buttons above and follow the simple prompts to activate a phone. If you need help, we have a number to call to activate phones (listed below).

Bring Your Own Phone -or- Buy a New Phone

Activate a used phone you already have or buy a new phone to activate online. We make it simple. Activate your phone service online today, even if you don’t know how to activate a phone yet. Have you asked yourself, “Can I learn how to activate a phone”? Yes, you can. We can help!

Activate your phone from almost any carrier (BYOD). Saving money on your phone bill is what we can help you accomplish. To do this, you need to purchase a SIM card, and you are ready to roll! Best Cellular not only allows you to keep another carrier’s phone, but we also encourage it. Our team is built around value and saving our customers money. Using your current phone is the perfect way to accomplish that!

We understand how scary it can seem trying to get your new service up and running. Before we get started, let’s answer a few common questions we hear most often.

Will I know how to activate my phone?

We make online phone activation simple. Our step-by-step process will help you with your phone activation. Activate your own phone online or let us help you!

Is there a number to call to activate my phone?

Call our customer service number to learn how to activate a phone. Dial 970-549-2378 and one of our trained staff members will be happy to assist you. Simply ask us to help you activate this phone and within minutes you will be able to use your new service.

Is it hard to activate a new phone from another company?

We allow BYOD phone activation so activating either a new phone, or activating an old phone is simple with our online activation process. If you want to port your number over from an old carrier, the activation process may take a while longer but it can definitely be done! Now, let’s move on with more information on activating your phone online.

Can I activate my phone online myself, or will I need help?

Activating your device with Best Cellular is easy with our simple-to-use activation portal. We understand the bond people have with their cellphone. We go above and beyond making it possible for bringing your own device over to our prepaid wireless network. It doesn’t matter what carrier you were with, you can activate a phone from almost every carrier on our service. Get Nationwide coverage with NO credit check, NO contract and NEVER any hidden fees.

If you need a new phone, we have lots of great phones in stock! This page is for customers looking to activate your phone online or activate a phone you just ordered from our online store.

How to Activate a Phone – Activate My Phone

Activate a phone today and start enjoying the clear quality service of the Best Cellular nationwide network. Our online activation portal makes its simple for anyone to use. Bring your own phone and our system will walk you through step-by-step. We can have you up and talking in minutes if you get a new phone number.

Can I Save My Contacts and Pictures before transferring?

Yes, you can! Switching to a better carrier won’t change any settings on your phone. The phone doesn’t need to be flashed. Our system doesn’t delete data from the phone. We make it simple! Just follow the simple steps above.

Ordering a Phone Online?

If you chose to upgrade your phone with one of the phones we sell in our online store, you need to activate your new service once you receive your phone and SIM card in the mail.

Want to activate a phone you bought somewhere else? No problem!

If you bought a cellphone from a different business, follow the steps above. Activating your phone with Best Cellular provides great quality signal/service no matter where you travel throughout the United States. Our team of professionals has training on how to activate phones from any carrier.

Anyone with basic computer skills can activate a phone online from the comfort of home. You can keep your number or get a new one. If you need any assistance with your phone activation, we offer free 24/7 customer service to teach you how to activate a phone.

When I Activate My Phone, Can I Keep My Phone Number?

Absolutely! You are welcome to keep your existing number, or we can provide you with a new phone number. We can port your current number from any company without you losing any data on your phone. Our online activation portal will help you submit the information necessary to port your phone number from your previous carrier. If you need a new phone number, we can do that too. We offer free phone numbers on all new activations. You can even change your number after activating if you need. There is no charge or any fees to keep your number or get a new one.

You will need to make sure you have all your account information from your previous carrier and that your bill is current and up to date.

The Best Nationwide Coverage!

No matter where you go in the USA, if there is a cell tower from any of the four major US Carriers, we have access to it – giving us the ability to provide you the best-prepaid service nationwide. By having access to all the major cell towers, our team of professionals will help you determine which carrier works best in your area. No matter where you travel, we can help you find the strongest signal.

If a customer moves or travels frequently, we can switch you to a different network with a compatible device. With Best Cellular, you can change carriers whenever you feel the need. In fact, you’ve never had more options for coverage from one company.

Bring Your Own Phone to Activate on the Best Cellular Nationwide Network!

Here is the bottom line. Our team wants you to get all you deserve from your cellular company. We are working people just like you, and we understand the importance of having a cell company that has your back no matter where you are.

Feel free to bring your own device and activate it online. If you need our help, we are always available to help you pick the perfect plan that fits your needs. Our trained staff will help you choose the right plan, SIM card, or anything else you need.

You will always hear a friendly voice providing excellent customer service and great quality phone service. No Contracts, NO credit checks and NEVER any hidden fees.

Best Cellular is a BYOD network that allows you to activate your own phone online or in our retail stores nationwide. There are no hidden fees or extra charges when you pay your bill. It doesn’t matter if you pay online, set up auto-pay, call our 24-hour customer service, or visit a local retailer! We are here to help you!

We always recommend keeping business local and supporting your local economy! Visit your local Best Cellular dealer if there’s one in your town! Don’t settle for less! You deserve the Best!

activate my phone, activate this phone, how to activate a phone, how to activate new phone, how to activate phones

How do MVNOs view the Sprint/T-Mobile Merger? by Sam

We were proud to have Conor Winters from The Capitol Forum recently interview M. Curtis McCoy, the CEO of Best Cellular. These are the questions and Mr. McCoy’s responses from the interview. Many MVNOs are curious about what the Sprint/T-Mobile Merger will entail and how it will affect the prepaid wireless industry. Mr. McCoy draws from his experience and technical knowledge of the industry to weigh in on these topics.

How do MVNOs view the merger?

As CEO of BestCellular.com I am deeply involved in, and keep a close watch on advancements in the wireless industry. We attend events all over the United States such as The Prepaid Wireless Expo, CTIA Super Mobility, and others.

Over the years, our team has met with T-Mobile, Sprint, Verizon and many developers and executives from the major US telecom carriers. Best Cellular is also in contact with cell site and tower leasing programs in many states.

As an MVNO, Sprint has been very easy to work with, and support is readily available. We have also had many discussions with the IoT staff at T-Mobile and we are impressed by the developments they’re making in next-gen communications technology.

Hopefully, the Sprint/T-Mobile Merger would result in fewer SIM (Subscriber Identity Module) Cards for the customer and retail store owners to deal with. Currently, there are (40) different Sprint SIM Card SKUs for customers to choose from when activating a phone. Finding the correct SIM Card for a specific Sprint device was so difficult that we hired a team of research analysts to research and create a Sprint UICC Database that allows users to enter their phone model and be matched with the compatible SIM Card(s) for their device. Although this is a great source of revenue for Best Cellular as we sell Sprint SIM Cards to customers (and even wholesale to other Sprint MVNOs), it would be nice to have a single SIM Card that fits all Sprint & T-Mobile phones.

How will it affect the wireless industry?

On the tech side, this situation will likely accelerate 5G implementation. That seems to be the focus of John Legere’s vision, based on the PR he’s been doing about the Sprint/T-Mobile Merger.

Sprint has always been future-driven with their technology. They were one of the first carriers to test offering wireless coverage via a cellular radio on a drone. However, when Sprint and Nextel merged in 2005, the quality of the network degraded and they lost a lot of customers. Sprint phased out the iDEN PTT (Push-to-Talk) system within a few years as they shifted their focus. Recently, they have been developing and implementing Massive MIMO technology. That uses arrays of antennae to make the best of a limited spectrum broadcast. It will probably be a big part of the switch to 5G.

T-Mobile, of course, has been driven by innovation for several years now. They quickly established a presence in metropolitan areas. Now they compete with the established carriers in those sectors and have enough clout and experience to take on Verizon. Aided by their financial parents in Europe, their commitment to developing technologies should make this merger a net positive.

If this move goes as well as intended, Qualcomm stock would probably be a good buy at this point, since they supply handset-side cellular modules. In February of this year, Qualcomm announced partnerships with 18 different handset manufacturers to produce 5G devices. This was before the official Sprint/T-Mobile merger was announced, which means they either had a good idea of the pulse of this deal or they’re simply gambling on 5G overall. Since any official statements about the merger push 5G as the biggest benefit, companies like Qualcomm are poised to take advantage of this deal. Qualcomm will likely be the largest supplier of antenna modules for the resulting company’s handsets, due to their history with both companies in the past and their push to compete with Broadcom.

As far as the retail end of this equation, that will depend greatly on how “The New T-Mobile” decides to implement and advertise the resulting company.

How would T-Mobile’s acquisition of Sprint affect the MVNO & wholesale market?

Multi-carrier MVNOs are currently able to negotiate wholesale rates between carriers so they can focus their sales on the carriers that offer the best coverage at the lowest cost. Combining any two carriers will result in higher wholesale costs, with less competition. This is likely not a good thing for either the MVNOs or the consumers.

Are you, from your position at Best Cellular, concerned about this deal? If so, what concerns do you have?

This is just speculation since the companies have not released any details about how MVNOs will be managed, but I think it could become a major problem for the United States telecom industry. As the competition decreases, the free market will have less influence on this sector. This will likely result in poor pricing for consumers, as previously stated.

Are AT&T and Verizon considered to be less active, or somehow less viable, carriers in the wholesale market?

Like Sprint, Verizon is very easy to work with as an MVNO. AT&T does not have the greatest track record, but Verizon is one of the top MVNO suppliers in the US. One thing to keep an eye on after this all shakes out is the reaction from Verizon and AT&T. They have already begun sharing tower technology, which might indicate intentions towards a future merger as well. That’s just more speculation at this point, (but so was the topic at hand just a few years ago). We’ll have to wait and see whether they create specific strategies to compete or decide to continue on their current development timelines.

Will this deal increase or decrease competition in the wholesale market?

Unfortunately, “two heads are better than one” doesn’t always seem to apply when major corporations join to create an even larger brand. For instance, look at the Canadian merger which left their country with only three major telecom companies (Bell, Telus & Rogers). This created a much worse pricing structure. In business, more competition is good for the customer. But, it does keep margins thinner for corporations, as they compete to offer the best service for the lowest cost. I’m all for making as much profit as possible, but not if it means worse service at a higher price.

Will this deal benefit or harm MVNOs?

Since we don’t have any specific directive on how “The New T-Mobile” will handle MVNOs, we can’t really answer this question as of yet.

Will this deal benefit or harm consumers?

History has shown that this may not be a good thing for the end-user. However, the MVNO market has a healthy level of competition. As long as the resulting “Big Three” continue to support the MVNO market structure, consumers will have lots of options.

How will the consolidation of T-Mobile and Verizon affect the prepaid wireless market?

Both Sprint and T-Mobile have had a good history with MVNOs. We are hopeful that this will be a net positive. One of the main difficulties will be the migration to new handsets for consumers. More than likely, the millions of active devices on both Sprint and T-Mobile will not be compatible with the new network requirements. This means a lot of customers forced to “upgrade” will not be happy with their out-of-pocket costs.

Are there any conditions you’d like to see imposed upon the deal to address any concerns you may have?

I would love to see requirements that force the carriers to maintain a reasonable wholesale pricing structure for MVNOs, and a commitment to maintain existing agreements. Although a buyout of MVNOs would be a nice payday for CEOs like myself, it would result in even further degradation of available options for consumers. Currently, there are more than (240) United States MVNOs and Wireless Carriers for people comparing cellular phone plans. If the resulting “Big Three” decided to cut MVNOs out of the picture, those alternatives would disappear.

How do MVNOs view the Sprint/T-Mobile Merger? by Sam

We were proud to have Conor Winters from The Capitol Forum recently interview M. Curtis McCoy, the CEO of Best Cellular. These are the questions and Mr. McCoy’s responses from the interview. Many MVNOs are curious about what the Sprint/T-Mobile Merger will entail and how it will affect the prepaid wireless industry. Mr. McCoy draws from his experience and technical knowledge of the industry to weigh in on these topics.

How do MVNOs view the merger?

As CEO of BestCellular.com I am deeply involved in, and keep a close watch on advancements in the wireless industry. We attend events all over the United States such as The Prepaid Wireless Expo, CTIA Super Mobility, and others.

Over the years, our team has met with T-Mobile, Sprint, Verizon and many developers and executives from the major US telecom carriers. Best Cellular is also in contact with cell site and tower leasing programs in many states.

As an MVNO, Sprint has been very easy to work with, and support is readily available. We have also had many discussions with the IoT staff at T-Mobile and we are impressed by the developments they’re making in next-gen communications technology.

Hopefully, the Sprint/T-Mobile Merger would result in fewer SIM (Subscriber Identity Module) Cards for the customer and retail store owners to deal with. Currently, there are (40) different Sprint SIM Card SKUs for customers to choose from when activating a phone. Finding the correct SIM Card for a specific Sprint device was so difficult that we hired a team of research analysts to research and create a Sprint UICC Database that allows users to enter their phone model and be matched with the compatible SIM Card(s) for their device. Although this is a great source of revenue for Best Cellular as we sell Sprint SIM Cards to customers (and even wholesale to other Sprint MVNOs), it would be nice to have a single SIM Card that fits all Sprint & T-Mobile phones.

How will it affect the wireless industry?

On the tech side, this situation will likely accelerate 5G implementation. That seems to be the focus of John Legere’s vision, based on the PR he’s been doing about the Sprint/T-Mobile Merger.

Sprint has always been future-driven with their technology. They were one of the first carriers to test offering wireless coverage via a cellular radio on a drone. However, when Sprint and Nextel merged in 2005, the quality of the network degraded and they lost a lot of customers. Sprint phased out the iDEN PTT (Push-to-Talk) system within a few years as they shifted their focus. Recently, they have been developing and implementing Massive MIMO technology. That uses arrays of antennae to make the best of a limited spectrum broadcast. It will probably be a big part of the switch to 5G.

T-Mobile, of course, has been driven by innovation for several years now. They quickly established a presence in metropolitan areas. Now they compete with the established carriers in those sectors and have enough clout and experience to take on Verizon. Aided by their financial parents in Europe, their commitment to developing technologies should make this merger a net positive.

If this move goes as well as intended, Qualcomm stock would probably be a good buy at this point, since they supply handset-side cellular modules. In February of this year, Qualcomm announced partnerships with 18 different handset manufacturers to produce 5G devices. This was before the official Sprint/T-Mobile merger was announced, which means they either had a good idea of the pulse of this deal or they’re simply gambling on 5G overall. Since any official statements about the merger push 5G as the biggest benefit, companies like Qualcomm are poised to take advantage of this deal. Qualcomm will likely be the largest supplier of antenna modules for the resulting company’s handsets, due to their history with both companies in the past and their push to compete with Broadcom.

As far as the retail end of this equation, that will depend greatly on how “The New T-Mobile” decides to implement and advertise the resulting company.

How would T-Mobile’s acquisition of Sprint affect the MVNO & wholesale market?

Multi-carrier MVNOs are currently able to negotiate wholesale rates between carriers so they can focus their sales on the carriers that offer the best coverage at the lowest cost. Combining any two carriers will result in higher wholesale costs, with less competition. This is likely not a good thing for either the MVNOs or the consumers.

Are you, from your position at Best Cellular, concerned about this deal? If so, what concerns do you have?

This is just speculation since the companies have not released any details about how MVNOs will be managed, but I think it could become a major problem for the United States telecom industry. As the competition decreases, the free market will have less influence on this sector. This will likely result in poor pricing for consumers, as previously stated.

Are AT&T and Verizon considered to be less active, or somehow less viable, carriers in the wholesale market?

Like Sprint, Verizon is very easy to work with as an MVNO. AT&T does not have the greatest track record, but Verizon is one of the top MVNO suppliers in the US. One thing to keep an eye on after this all shakes out is the reaction from Verizon and AT&T. They have already begun sharing tower technology, which might indicate intentions towards a future merger as well. That’s just more speculation at this point, (but so was the topic at hand just a few years ago). We’ll have to wait and see whether they create specific strategies to compete or decide to continue on their current development timelines.

Will this deal increase or decrease competition in the wholesale market?

Unfortunately, “two heads are better than one” doesn’t always seem to apply when major corporations join to create an even larger brand. For instance, look at the Canadian merger which left their country with only three major telecom companies (Bell, Telus & Rogers). This created a much worse pricing structure. In business, more competition is good for the customer. But, it does keep margins thinner for corporations, as they compete to offer the best service for the lowest cost. I’m all for making as much profit as possible, but not if it means worse service at a higher price.

Will this deal benefit or harm MVNOs?

Since we don’t have any specific directive on how “The New T-Mobile” will handle MVNOs, we can’t really answer this question as of yet.

Will this deal benefit or harm consumers?

History has shown that this may not be a good thing for the end-user. However, the MVNO market has a healthy level of competition. As long as the resulting “Big Three” continue to support the MVNO market structure, consumers will have lots of options.

How will the consolidation of T-Mobile and Verizon affect the prepaid wireless market?

Both Sprint and T-Mobile have had a good history with MVNOs. We are hopeful that this will be a net positive. One of the main difficulties will be the migration to new handsets for consumers. More than likely, the millions of active devices on both Sprint and T-Mobile will not be compatible with the new network requirements. This means a lot of customers forced to “upgrade” will not be happy with their out-of-pocket costs.

Are there any conditions you’d like to see imposed upon the deal to address any concerns you may have?

I would love to see requirements that force the carriers to maintain a reasonable wholesale pricing structure for MVNOs, and a commitment to maintain existing agreements. Although a buyout of MVNOs would be a nice payday for CEOs like myself, it would result in even further degradation of available options for consumers. Currently, there are more than (240) United States MVNOs and Wireless Carriers for people comparing cellular phone plans. If the resulting “Big Three” decided to cut MVNOs out of the picture, those alternatives would disappear.

Conor Winters, Sprint Merger, Sprint/T-Mobile Merger, T-Mobile Merger, The Capitol Forum

Best Cellular Coverage in Santa Ana, CA 92705

Recent inquiries about coverage in Santa Ana led us to research and post this article about the Best Cellular coverage in the area. Read on to find out a little bit of context for Santa Ana, CA. Also, see which carrier has the best coverage!

About Santa Ana, CA

Santa Ana, the second-most populated city in Orange County, houses the county seat. Positioned in beautiful Southern California alongside the Santa Ana River, the city combines with others nearby to form the greater Los Angeles metropolitan area. Residents of the city enjoy mild winters. However, they do have to contend with hot and dry conditions during the summer months. The demographics consist of a Hispanic or Latino population as a large majority.

Many companies run their operations through headquarters in Santa Ana. These include Ingram Micro, First American Corporation, Behr Paint, and the Rickenbacker International Corporation. Local attractions include Disneyland, Knott"s Berry Farm, and coastal beachfront activities.

Best Cellular Coverage in Santa Ana, CA 92705

After reviewing all of the carriers in the area, we can confidently say that we have found the best cellular coverage in Santa Ana, CA 92705. Best Cellular CDMA coverage is by far the best for this area. Best Cellular GSM-T signal is not too far behind, but since the CDMA coverage outpaces competition nationwide, we recommend it as the superior service plan.

For more information on activating your own device or getting a new one, visit the BestCellular.com homepage. Plans on Best Cellular CDMA start at $15 a month for basic phones and $40 for smartphones.

Obamaphones, Fraud, and The True Cost of That “Free Phone”

You might have heard about the “Obamaphone” before as a free option for those with low income. But are Obama Phones really free? What is an Obamaphone? Who is paying for that phone? And how do you get more minutes on an Obamaphone? We took the time to research these topics and give you our findings below.

What is an Obamaphone?

What most people refer to as an Obamaphone is actually part of a government program that the FCC initiated far before Obama was in office. The program, called Lifeline Assistance, did cover cell phones starting in 2008, which just so happened to be when Obama took office. However, the Lifeline Assistance project originally covered only landline phone plans. Tracfone became the first company to cover cellphones using the federal program in 2008, just before Obama’s inauguration. Today they operate upwards of 4 million lines through their SafeLink Wireless brand. T-Mobile also supported the Lifeline program until 2015 when they cut it off, citing low subscriber numbers.

Consumers who want to participate must have an income no higher than 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. Otherwise, they can qualify if they are already enrolled in another federal assistance program such as Medicaid, food stamps, etc.

How do I get more minutes on my Obama phone?

Since neither the phones nor the service are provided by the government directly, you need to deal with the carrier of your Lifeline phone. Most people using an “Obama phone” signed up through either SafeLink Wireless or Assurance Wireless. Approximately 60 different Lifeline Assistance carriers participate throughout the US. You may need to do a little digging to find the one nearest you. In order to get more minutes on a Lifeline Assistance phone, you must wait until the next month or sign up for a paid plan through a carrier. Most of the carriers who support the program will give 250 free minutes or less for the month.

Are Obama Phones really free?

This is where the details get complicated. For the approved end-user, your phone and/or service might be completely free. You will have to go through a qualification process first. Many of the Lifeline Assistance participators accept proof of federal assistance, which may lead to the confusion that it is a federally-funded subsidy program. The same set of individuals using welfare or Medicaid systems will typically pre-qualify for Lifeline Assistance.

All of the carriers involved in the program contribute to the Universal Service Fund. This fund, managed by the FCC (Federal Communications Commission), collects fees from the carriers through the Universal Service Administrative Company. The proceeds from the fund are then redistributed to subsidize the costs for phones and service. What many paying customers do not realize is that they are giving into this fund by default. Check the line items on your monthly bill for USF or Universal Service Fund charges to see what you are paying. Note that this itemization is not required by the FCC, and differs from the Federal Subscriber Line charges.

How do I get a replacement phone from SafeLink wireless?

SafeLink Wireless does not provide insurance for their free devices. You can purchase a compatible device from Tracfone or call a customer service representative to get more details. Once you have a replacement phone in hand, they can assist you with transferring service.

Can I use my own cell phone with Safelink Wireless or Assurance Wireless?

Some of the Lifeline Assistance companies do allow you to Bring Your Own Device. However, it must be compatible with their top-level carrier. Call and verify before you purchase a device for one of these programs. Samsung, LG, and Motorola all make handsets compatible with these services.

Who owns Safelink Wireless?

America Movil, owned by Carlos Slim, operates Safelink Wireless alongside multiple other MVNOs such as Tracfone and Straight Talk. None of the companies are controlled directly by the United States government. As previously stated, money for the company’s free phone program comes from the Universal Service Fund.

When did the Lifeline program start?

The FCC authorized the landline service subsidizations under President Clinton in 1996, but the program actually began in 1985 under President Reagan’ administration. Since then, the Lifeline Assistance program has expanded to include cellphone plans and devices. Discussion over whether Lifeline Assistance should cover high-speed internet access is still underway as of 2018.

How much is Lifeline phone service?

According to the FCC, eligible subscribers can receive up to $9.25 in discounts through the program. However, many carriers who tap into the Universal Service Fund use the allocated funds to create free low-usage plans instead of discounting existing plans. Again, applicants must provide proof of eligibility.

Can you get both Assurance Wireless and SafeLink Wireless?

Since the FCC approves subsidy payouts per individual, you are not legally allowed to use more than one Lifeline Assistance plan. However, due to high rates of fraud and a lack of accountability, many criminals have been able to cheat the system and register multiple free accounts.

Fraud Within the Lifeline Assistance Program

Unfortunately, this federally-managed program suffered from many counts of fraud over the years. In 2012, the FCC enacted a reform in order to curb losses and illegal activity. This plan went on to save over $2 Billion within three years. Criticisms of the USF management persist under certain categories.

Funding for Only Eligible Services

Once the money leaves the USF, it is under cellular carrier control. This means they self-regulate and self-report how they use those funds. It is up to the integrity of the cellular industry to determine whether the finances go back to users in need and under the approved services.

The Right Amount of Disbursement

Again, the funds allocated to carriers are their responsibility. That means they will be the sole authority on how much each individual receives under the program. While the FCC does hold them accountable, much of the specifics get lost in the shuffle.

Time Management

Once they receive an application, cellular carriers do not always run the approval process in a timely manner. The receipt of funds by individuals also may or may not occur according to their needs.

As you can see, the “Obama phone” system is not perfect, but it does contribute to millions of Americans receiving free or low-cost access to telecommunication. In this modern age, where business runs online or over-the-phone, that access could make the difference between life or death for disabled or elderly users.

For more information on affordable phone plans, check out the BestCellular.com homepage, where we offer simple phone plans starting at $15 per month.

How do MVNOs view the Sprint/T-Mobile Merger?

We were proud to have Conor Winters from The Capitol Forum recently interview M. Curtis McCoy, the CEO of Best Cellular. These are the questions and Mr. McCoy"s responses from the interview. Many MVNOs are curious about what the Sprint/T-Mobile Merger will entail and how it will affect the prepaid wireless industry. Mr. McCoy draws from his experience and technical knowledge of the industry to weigh in on these topics.

How do MVNOs view the merger?

As CEO of BestCellular.com I am deeply involved in, and keep a close watch on advancements in the wireless industry. We attend events all over the United States such as The Prepaid Wireless Expo, CTIA Super Mobility, and others.

Over the years, our team has met with T-Mobile, Sprint, Verizon and many developers and executives from the major US telecom carriers. Best Cellular is also in contact with cell site and tower leasing programs in many states.

As an MVNO, Sprint has been very easy to work with, and support is readily available. We have also had many discussions with the IoT staff at T-Mobile and we are impressed by the developments they’re making in next-gen communications technology.

Hopefully, the Sprint/T-Mobile Merger would result in fewer SIM (Subscriber Identity Module) Cards for the customer and retail store owners to deal with. Currently, there are (40) different Sprint SIM Card SKUs for customers to choose from when activating a phone. Finding the correct SIM Card for a specific Sprint device was so difficult that we hired a team of research analysts to research and create a Sprint UICC Database that allows users to enter their phone model and be matched with the compatible SIM Card(s) for their device. Although this is a great source of revenue for Best Cellular as we sell Sprint SIM Cards to customers (and even wholesale to other Sprint MVNOs), it would be nice to have a single SIM Card that fits all Sprint & T-Mobile phones.

How will it affect the wireless industry?

On the tech side, this situation will likely accelerate 5G implementation. That seems to be the focus of John Legere’s vision, based on the PR he’s been doing about the Sprint/T-Mobile Merger.

Sprint has always been future-driven with their technology. They were one of the first carriers to test offering wireless coverage via a cellular radio on a drone. However, when Sprint and Nextel merged in 2005, the quality of the network degraded and they lost a lot of customers. Sprint phased out the iDEN PTT (Push-to-Talk) system within a few years as they shifted their focus. Recently, they have been developing and implementing Massive MIMO technology. That uses arrays of antennae to make the best of a limited spectrum broadcast. It will probably be a big part of the switch to 5G.

T-Mobile, of course, has been driven by innovation for several years now. They quickly established a presence in metropolitan areas. Now they compete with the established carriers in those sectors and have enough clout and experience to take on Verizon. Aided by their financial parents in Europe, their commitment to developing technologies should make this merger a net positive.

If this move goes as well as intended, Qualcomm stock would probably be a good buy at this point, since they supply handset-side cellular modules. In February of this year, Qualcomm announced partnerships with 18 different handset manufacturers to produce 5G devices. This was before the official Sprint/T-Mobile merger was announced, which means they either had a good idea of the pulse of this deal or they’re simply gambling on 5G overall. Since any official statements about the merger push 5G as the biggest benefit, companies like Qualcomm are poised to take advantage of this deal. Qualcomm will likely be the largest supplier of antenna modules for the resulting company’s handsets, due to their history with both companies in the past and their push to compete with Broadcom.

As far as the retail end of this equation, that will depend greatly on how “The New T-Mobile” decides to implement and advertise the resulting company.

How would T-Mobile"s acquisition of Sprint affect the MVNO & wholesale market?

Multi-carrier MVNOs are currently able to negotiate wholesale rates between carriers so they can focus their sales on the carriers that offer the best coverage at the lowest cost. Combining any two carriers will result in higher wholesale costs, with less competition. This is likely not a good thing for either the MVNOs or the consumers.

Are you, from your position at Best Cellular, concerned about this deal? If so, what concerns do you have?

This is just speculation since the companies have not released any details about how MVNOs will be managed, but I think it could become a major problem for the United States telecom industry. As the competition decreases, the free market will have less influence on this sector. This will likely result in poor pricing for consumers, as previously stated.

Are AT&T and Verizon considered to be less active, or somehow less viable, carriers in the wholesale market?

Like Sprint, Verizon is very easy to work with as an MVNO. AT&T does not have the greatest track record, but Verizon is one of the top MVNO suppliers in the US. One thing to keep an eye on after this all shakes out is the reaction from Verizon and AT&T. They have already begun sharing tower technology, which might indicate intentions towards a future merger as well. That’s just more speculation at this point, (but so was the topic at hand just a few years ago). We’ll have to wait and see whether they create specific strategies to compete or decide to continue on their current development timelines.

Will this deal increase or decrease competition in the wholesale market?

Unfortunately, “two heads are better than one” doesn’t always seem to apply when major corporations join to create an even larger brand. For instance, look at the Canadian merger which left their country with only three major telecom companies (Bell, Telus & Rogers). This created a much worse pricing structure. In business, more competition is good for the customer. But, it does keep margins thinner for corporations, as they compete to offer the best service for the lowest cost. I’m all for making as much profit as possible, but not if it means worse service at a higher price.

Will this deal benefit or harm MVNOs?

Since we don’t have any specific directive on how “The New T-Mobile” will handle MVNOs, we can’t really answer this question as of yet.

Will this deal benefit or harm consumers?

History has shown that this may not be a good thing for the end-user. However, the MVNO market has a healthy level of competition. As long as the resulting “Big Three” continue to support the MVNO market structure, consumers will have lots of options.

How will the consolidation of T-Mobile and Verizon affect the prepaid wireless market?

Both Sprint and T-Mobile have had a good history with MVNOs. We are hopeful that this will be a net positive. One of the main difficulties will be the migration to new handsets for consumers. More than likely, the millions of active devices on both Sprint and T-Mobile will not be compatible with the new network requirements. This means a lot of customers forced to “upgrade” will not be happy with their out-of-pocket costs.

Are there any conditions you"d like to see imposed upon the deal to address any concerns you may have?

I would love to see requirements that force the carriers to maintain a reasonable wholesale pricing structure for MVNOs, and a commitment to maintain existing agreements. Although a buyout of MVNOs would be a nice payday for CEOs like myself, it would result in even further degradation of available options for consumers. Currently, there are more than (240) United States MVNOs and Wireless Carriers for people comparing cellular phone plans. If the resulting “Big Three” decided to cut MVNOs out of the picture, those alternatives would disappear.

Best Cellular Coverage in Santa Ana, CA 92705 by Sam

Recent inquiries about coverage in Santa Ana led us to research and post this article about the Best Cellular coverage in the area. Read on to find out a little bit of context for Santa Ana, CA. Also, see which carrier has the best coverage!

About Santa Ana, CA

Santa Ana, the second-most populated city in Orange County, houses the county seat. Positioned in beautiful Southern California alongside the Santa Ana River, the city combines with others nearby to form the greater Los Angeles metropolitan area. Residents of the city enjoy mild winters. However, they do have to contend with hot and dry conditions during the summer months. The demographics consist of a Hispanic or Latino population as a large majority.

Many companies run their operations through headquarters in Santa Ana. These include Ingram Micro, First American Corporation, Behr Paint, and the Rickenbacker International Corporation. Local attractions include Disneyland, Knott"s Berry Farm, and coastal beachfront activities.

Best Cellular Coverage in Santa Ana, CA 92705

After reviewing all of the carriers in the area, we can confidently say that we have found the best cellular coverage in Santa Ana, CA 92705. Best Cellular CDMA coverage is by far the best for this area. Best Cellular GSM-T signal is not too far behind, but since the CDMA coverage outpaces competition nationwide, we recommend it as the superior service plan.

For more information on activating your own device or getting a new one, visit the BestCellular.com homepage. Plans on Best Cellular CDMA start at $15 a month for basic phones and $40 for smartphones. CA 92705, Cellular Coverage in Santa Ana

Obamaphones, Fraud, and The True Cost of That “Free Phone”

You might have heard about the "Obamaphone" before as a free option for those with low income. But are Obama Phones really free? What is an Obamaphone? Who is paying for that phone? And how do you get more minutes on an Obamaphone? We took the time to research these topics and give you our findings below.

What is an Obamaphone?

What most people refer to as an Obamaphone is actually part of a government program that the FCC initiated far before Obama was in office. The program, called Lifeline Assistance, did cover cell phones starting in 2008, which just so happened to be when Obama took office. However, the Lifeline Assistance project originally covered only landline phone plans. Tracfone became the first company to cover cellphones using the federal program in 2008, just before Obama"s inauguration. Today they operate upwards of 4 million lines through their SafeLink Wireless brand. T-Mobile also supported the Lifeline program until 2015 when they cut it off, citing low subscriber numbers.

Consumers who want to participate must have an income no higher than 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. Otherwise, they can qualify if they are already enrolled in another federal assistance program such as Medicaid, food stamps, etc.

How do I get more minutes on my Obama phone?

Since neither the phones nor the service are provided by the government directly, you need to deal with the carrier of your Lifeline phone. Most people using an "Obama phone" signed up through either SafeLink Wireless or Assurance Wireless. Approximately 60 different Lifeline Assistance carriers participate throughout the US. You may need to do a little digging to find the one nearest you. In order to get more minutes on a Lifeline Assistance phone, you must wait until the next month or sign up for a paid plan through a carrier. Most of the carriers who support the program will give 250 free minutes or less for the month.

Are Obama Phones really free?

This is where the details get complicated. For the approved end-user, your phone and/or service might be completely free. You will have to go through a qualification process first. Many of the Lifeline Assistance participators accept proof of federal assistance, which may lead to the confusion that it is a federally-funded subsidy program. The same set of individuals using welfare or Medicaid systems will typically pre-qualify for Lifeline Assistance.

All of the carriers involved in the program contribute to the Universal Service Fund. This fund, managed by the FCC (Federal Communications Commission), collects fees from the carriers through the Universal Service Administrative Company. The proceeds from the fund are then redistributed to subsidize the costs for phones and service. What many paying customers do not realize is that they are giving into this fund by default. Check the line items on your monthly bill for USF or Universal Service Fund charges to see what you are paying. Note that this itemization is not required by the FCC, and differs from the Federal Subscriber Line charges.

How do I get a replacement phone from SafeLink wireless?

SafeLink Wireless does not provide insurance for their free devices. You can purchase a compatible device from Tracfone or call a customer service representative to get more details. Once you have a replacement phone in hand, they can assist you with transferring service.

Can I use my own cell phone with Safelink Wireless or Assurance Wireless?

Some of the Lifeline Assistance companies do allow you to Bring Your Own Device. However, it must be compatible with their top-level carrier. Call and verify before you purchase a device for one of these programs. Samsung, LG, and Motorola all make handsets compatible with these services.

Who owns Safelink Wireless?

America Movil, owned by Carlos Slim, operates Safelink Wireless alongside multiple other MVNOs such as Tracfone and Straight Talk. None of the companies are controlled directly by the United States government. As previously stated, money for the company"s free phone program comes from the Universal Service Fund.

When did the Lifeline program start?

The FCC authorized the landline service subsidizations under President Clinton in 1996, but the program actually began in 1985 under President Reagan" administration. Since then, the Lifeline Assistance program has expanded to include cellphone plans and devices. Discussion over whether Lifeline Assistance should cover high-speed internet access is still underway as of 2018.

How much is Lifeline phone service?

According to the FCC, eligible subscribers can receive up to $9.25 in discounts through the program. However, many carriers who tap into the Universal Service Fund use the allocated funds to create free low-usage plans instead of discounting existing plans. Again, applicants must provide proof of eligibility.

Can you get both Assurance Wireless and SafeLink Wireless?

Since the FCC approves subsidy payouts per individual, you are not legally allowed to use more than one Lifeline Assistance plan. However, due to high rates of fraud and a lack of accountability, many criminals have been able to cheat the system and register multiple free accounts.

Fraud Within the Lifeline Assistance Program

Unfortunately, this federally-managed program suffered from many counts of fraud over the years. In 2012, the FCC enacted a reform in order to curb losses and illegal activity. This plan went on to save over $2 Billion within three years. Criticisms of the USF management persist under certain categories.

Funding for Only Eligible Services

Once the money leaves the USF, it is under cellular carrier control. This means they self-regulate and self-report how they use those funds. It is up to the integrity of the cellular industry to determine whether the finances go back to users in need and under the approved services.

The Right Amount of Disbursement

Again, the funds allocated to carriers are their responsibility. That means they will be the sole authority on how much each individual receives under the program. While the FCC does hold them accountable, much of the specifics get lost in the shuffle.

Time Management

Once they receive an application, cellular carriers do not always run the approval process in a timely manner. The receipt of funds by individuals also may or may not occur according to their needs.

As you can see, the "Obama phone" system is not perfect, but it does contribute to millions of Americans receiving free or low-cost access to telecommunication. In this modern age, where business runs online or over-the-phone, that access could make the difference between life or death for disabled or elderly users.

For more information on affordable phone plans, check out the BestCellular.com homepage, where we offer simple phone plans starting at $15 per month. assurance wireless, lifeline assistance, Obama phone, safelink wireless, What is an Obamaphone