VoLTE Survival Guide, Network Changes

Your step-by-step guide to Network Changes

What is VoLTE?

Voice Over LTE (VoLTE) is the current network standard, bringing you great features unavailable with older phones. Enjoy clearer sounding calls, the ability to search the web and use GPS while on a call*, and an improved battery life.

If your phone doesn’t support VoLTE, you will face connection issues like dropped calls and poor reception. This will eventually lead to total loss of service, and you will not be able to make or receive calls, including emergency or 911 calls.

*Some features may only be available for Smartphones.

Watch the video below to learn more.

VoLTE Survival Guide, Network Changes

Switching to a VoLTE-ready phone

Follow these easy steps to start enjoying everything VoLTE has to offer.

VoLTE Survival Guide, Network Changes

First, shop VoLTE phones for every budget

To see your special upgrade offer, click below and enter your phone number.

SHOP VoLTE PHONES
VoLTE Survival Guide, Network Changes

Then, transfer everything to your new phone

If you’ve activated a VoLTE-capable Smartphone,
download the Transfer Wizard app to transfer
your contacts, photos, messages, and more from
one Smartphone to another.

Download on the App Store
Get it on Google Play

When downloading and using this app, standard data
rates may apply.

Things you’ll enjoy with VoLTE

Jon Rettinger, host of the YouTube channel Technically Speaking, explains how VoLTE will improve your experience with attractive functionalities, like:

VoLTE Survival Guide, Network Changes
Clearer-sounding
voice calls
VoLTE Survival Guide, Network Changes
Browse and navigate
while on a call*
VoLTE Survival Guide, Network Changes
Improved
battery life
WATCH JON’S VIDEO

*Some features may only be available with smartphones.

Don’t worry,
we’re here to help

From finding the right phone to transferring your benefits, we’ve got your back every step of the way.

Call 866-667-6437

Frequently asked questions

How do I unlock my personal AT&T device?

AT&T Unlock Process

AT&T Device Criteria to Unlock Personal Devices:
  • Your request is for an AT&T phone or device that is not active on another AT&T account.
  • There is no past-due account balance on this device. If there is, make a payment to bring your account current. It will take 24 hours for your payment to post.
  • If you have a paid-off installment plan:
    • If you are paying a monthly service bill: Submit your unlock request at the start of your next bill cycle.
    • If you pay off your installment plan early: The wireless number assigned to the device must have been active for at least 60 days. Wait 48 hours after you make your final payment to submit your unlock request.
  • If you have an AT&T PrepaidSM device: You must have completed at least 6 months of paid service.
  • The device has not been reported as lost, stolen, or involved with fraud.
  • If you are on active duty military deployment: You don’t have to complete your installment plan or contract to be eligible to unlock. Make sure you select Yes when asked if you’re deployed military.
How to Unlock - If you have an AT&T account that your device is associated to:
  1. Log in to your AT&T account.
  2. Under Get support, select the link Unlock device to use on other networks. This takes you to the Instructions page.
  3. Select the link att.com/deviceunlock.
  4. Answer the question (select NO – not an AT&T customer) and provide your phone’s IMEI.
  5. Check the box to indicate I am not a robot.
  6. Check the box to indicate your agreement. Yes, I’ve read the legal stuff and agree to the device unlock eligibility requirements.
  7. Click Next.
  8. Make sure to check your email and text messages for follow-up instructions. You must confirm your request via email and follow any instructions you receive.
  9. The unlock request can take up to 48 hours to complete.
How to Unlock - If you don’t have an AT&T account, but your device is an AT&T device:
  1. Go to https://www.att.com/deviceunlock.
  2. Answer the questions (select NO – not an AT&T customer) and provide your phone’s IMEI.
  3. Check the box to indicate I am not a robot.
  4. Check the box to indicate your agreement. Yes, I’ve read the legal stuff and agree to the device unlock eligibility requirements.
  5. Click Next.
  6. Make sure to check your email and text messages for follow-up instructions. You must confirm your request via email and follow any instructions you receive.
  7. The unlock request can take up to 48 hours to complete.

How do I unlock my personal T-Mobile device?

T-Mobile Device Unlock Process

Steps to check your device unlock status & eligibility:
  1. Go to the carrier’s website where you originally purchased the phone and log into your account.
  2. Click on the phone number/device you want to unlock, and select View Details.
  3. Click on the device image for the device you want to unlock.
  4. In the list below the device image, click on Check device unlock status.
  5. The next page should display the status “Device unlocked” or “Device locked”.
  • Status unlocked: Certain T-Mobile devices are sold unlocked. Some locked devices will be unlocked remotely once they meet the eligibility criteria.
  • Status locked: Look under the device image to see if it’s eligible to be unlocked.
To unlock an eligible device:
Once you’ve received communication that your device is eligible to be unlocked, go to this page and follow the instructions.
www.t-mobile.com/support/devices/unlock-your-mobile-wireless-device
For unlock instructions, scroll down to Unlock Your Device.

Unlock Your Device
Follow the steps below if you received a notification that your device is eligible to be unlocked. If the notification mentions an unlock code, Contact Us so we can provide it.

  1. Make sure you are connected to the T-Mobile network or Wi-Fi.
  2. Swipe up on your Homescreen to open the Apps tray and follow the steps below:
    • Samsung:
      • Newer devices: Settings > Connections > More Connection Settings > Network Unlock
      • Older devices: Use the Device Unlock app pre-installed on your device. If you do not have this app, your device is unlocked, or it is on a 2019 or newer OS.
    • OnePlus (6T and newer): Settings > Wi-Fi & internet > SIM and network, then choose Advanced or Network Unlock
    • T-Mobile REVVLRY: Settings > Network & Internet > Mobile network > Advanced > Network Unlock
    • Other manufacturers: Choose your device on the Devices page. Then, click the Security drop-down to find Mobile Device Unlock steps.
  3. Select Permanent Unlock and wait while the device completes the unlock.
  4. Restart the device.

What’s happening with the network changes?

As part of our effort to give you the best wireless experience, our partners are shifting their focus from 3G networks as they continue to invest in the latest and more improved generations of wireless technology. As a result, the 3G network will be going away and is being replaced with Voice Over LTE (VoLTE).

If you are still using a 3G or non-VoLTE 4G device when the 3G network is shut down, you will not be able to make or receive calls, send or receive text messages, or access data services.

What will happen if I have a non-VoLTE or 3G phone?

Devices that don’t have 4G capabilities will lose the ability to receive data or voice services. You will still be able to use some features on your non-VoLTE phone once the 3G network is shut down, however, you will need to upgrade to a new device in order to access the current network.

What if I have a Basic phone?

Like any other phone, basic phones that are VoLTE compatible will work on the new network. However, if your current flip phone does not have 4G capabilities you will not have access to data or voice services.

What do I need to do if I’m not VoLTE-compatible?

You will need to upgrade to a VoLTE-capable phone. You may bring your own VoLTE-capable phone or you may purchase one from us.

When are the network changes coming?

These changes are already taking place. You may have started experiencing dropped calls or poor connections. Unfortunately, these issues will continue to worsen, and eventually, you will no longer be able to make or receive calls, including emergency or 911 calls.

What is 4G LTE or VoLTE?

4G LTE, or VoLTE, lets you enjoy benefits like faster call connection, clearer-sounding calls with HD Voice calling, improved battery life, better conference and video calling, and the ability to use GPS while on a call.*

*Some features may only be available for Smartphones.

How can I get Voice Over LTE?

VoLTE is included in most of our plans at no extra cost. All you have to do is upgrade to a VoLTE capable phone or make sure to enable VoLTE in your settings (if you already have a VoLTE phone).

All SafeLink phones available online and in-store are VoLTE-ready.

Can I bring my own VoLTE-ready phone?

Yes, you may! You can get a VoLTE-ready phone from the retailer of your choice. You’ll have to activate it with a new SIM Card from us. We’ll point you to the right option for your phone and give you instructions on how to replace it.

Can I keep my current SIM card?

No, your current SIM card is not compatible with VoLTE. It is crucial that you do not remove the new SIM card, or switch it with your current one, as this will cause you to lose service.

How can I activate my new device?

If you got your new phone (or SIM) from our online store, text∆ the word ONESTEP to 611611 from your old phone and follow the prompts. If you got your new phone or SIM at a local retail store, follow the instructions that came in your package to transfer your service to your new device.

How can I request a new SIM Card?

To request a new SIM Card, please call 866-667-6437.

What will happen to my Plan and benefits after I switch to VoLTE?

You get to keep them! Your Plan and benefits will be transferred, and your Service End Date won’t change once your upgrade is complete.

How can I transfer my content to my new phone?

You can use the Transfer Wizard app to move messages, contacts, images, and more from one phone to the next. All you need is good Wi-Fi.

I already placed my order, where can I check my order status?

Please click here to track your order.

Now that SafeLink is part of Verizon, how does this affect me?

Your current SafeLink Service Plan will remain available for use on VoLTE-ready phones at least until Nov. 23, 2024. You will continue to enjoy your wireless service and do not need to take any action until we notify you. We will also post any deadlines for the transition on this page https://www.tracfonewirelessinc.com/en/lifeline. Check back later for more information.

When upgrading to VoLTE, your coverage may be affected.
After your current phone is deactivated, it cannot be reactivated.
If you recently upgraded to a VoLTE phone, please disregard this message.

SafeLink is now part of Verizon. Click here for more information.