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Technology

Switching Phone Carriers? Here's What You Need To Know

January 13, 2023

It's the time of year for new beginnings, fresh starts and “out with the old, in with the new." If you are not totally happy with your current mobile network provider, or have been thinking about switching phone carriers, now is the time to act.

Make switching your cell phone plan your new year's resolution, so you can take advantage of extended holiday deals and start 2023 off right. Staying connected to loved ones is more important than ever and having an affordable and reliable mobile phone plan helps you do just that.
 

Here are some key questions to ask before switching your phone carrier.

Which Mobile Carrier Offers the Best Service in Your Area?
Quality reception is even more crucial today during remote work. The last thing you want is a dropped call when you're talking to your boss.
 
To help figure out which mobile carrier offers the best reliability in your area, you can compare coverage maps of different network providers. The maps should show the carrier's geographic range, as well as signal strength. You can also check for wifi hotspots that can help control your mobile data usage while you're away from home.
 
Can You Keep Your Number When You Switch Carriers?
Some companies charge fees for keeping your current phone number, also known as “porting." Check with your potential new mobile carrier, and do not end your current service before starting a new one. For more information, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) offers these tips for keeping your number when you change providers.
 
How Much Data Do You Need?
When it comes to mobile data, it's important to have flexibility. You can check your smartphone to determine your current usage or use this savings calculator, so that you don't get stuck paying for more data than you need or end up not having enough data.
 
With Cox's Pay As You Gig plan, for example, you only pay for the data you need each month. But if you watch a lot of YouTube and TikTok videos on your phone and use a lot of apps, and you need more data, you can switch to Cox's Gig Unlimited plan at any time. You can also always save on data usage by connecting with wifi hotspots at home and on the go.
 
Can You BYOD (Bring Your Own Device)?
If you want to keep your device when you switch, check with your new network provider to make sure it is unlocked and compatible with their network. 
 
Keeping your phone lets you save money and the time needed to learn the features of a new device. If you want to keep your device when you switch, check with your new network provider to make sure it is unlocked and compatible with their network.  With Cox Mobile, you can then sign up for service and receive a new SIM card to activate. 

 

 
Don't Forget to Back Up Your Info
One last, but important, tip — before you switch carriers, make sure to back up all of the information on your phone to avoid losing any unsaved photos or data.
 
Did you Know?
Cox offers wifi hotspots around the country to help keep your mobile data usage down while you're away from home? Check our map to see coverage details.

 

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