Easily activate your new SIM card number by contacting customer care.
AT&T, formerly Cingular Wireless, requires smart chips, or SIM cards, for cell phones to work on its network. The SIM card contains all the information about the wireless account, including account name, cell phone number and contact list. The AT&T cell phone's serial number (IMEI) is programmed with the specific SIM card number. This programming allows your cell phone number to work with that specific device. To activate a SIM card with a new device and number, simply install the small card underneath the battery and power on the phone. For replacement SIM cards, the activation process is different.
Instructions
1. Remove the back off your cell phone. Pull out the battery and locate the small white tab beneath it. Look for the numbers labeled "IMEI." Write down these numbers.
2. Locate your new SIM card. Make a note of the numeric code on the front of the card.
3. Contact AT&T customer care by dialing 800-331-0500 from another line. The wireless account must be fully verified before you can update your information.
4. Provide both the IMEI and SIM card numbers to the representative. Once the numbers have been updated, you will insert the new SIM card into small slot in the back of the phone. A SIM card shape is normally located atop the slot. Insert the battery and replace the phone's back.
5. Power your device on. The AT&T representative will place an incoming test call. The new SIM card is now activated.
Tags: cell phone, card number, cell phone number, customer care, phone number, wireless account