How do I move a cellular data plan from a broken phone to a new phone?
Answer
Moving a plan usually means activating the new phone with the same carrier account—often by transferring a SIM or eSIM, or asking the carrier to switch the line. Confirm the new phone is unlocked and compatible, then activate in the carrier app or by swapping the SIM before troubleshooting No Service.
Before you start: stop right away if…
- Resetting network settings removes saved Wi‑Fi passwords on that phone.
- Never share account passwords or one-time codes with unexpected callers claiming to move your number.
Follow these steps
Decide SIM swap vs carrier activation
If the old phone used a physical SIM and the new phone takes the same size, plan to move that SIM. If the old phone used an eSIM or the SIM will not fit, plan to activate through the carrier app or customer support on the new device instead.
You should see: You know whether you will move hardware SIM or request a new SIM/eSIM for the same line.
Activate the line on the new phone
Insert the SIM or follow the carrier’s Activate / Transfer number flow in the official carrier app or website. Keep Wi‑Fi available so the phone can download an eSIM if needed. Wait until the phone shows your carrier name and signal, not only Wi‑Fi.
You should see: The new phone shows cellular signal and can place a test call or use mobile data.
Fix No Service after the switch
If the new iPhone shows No Service or SOS only after activation, try Airplane Mode on for 15 seconds then off, restart the phone, and check Settings > Cellular. As a later step, use Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Reset Network Settings, then restart.
You should see: Cellular service returns, or you have a clear carrier error to report to support.
Confirm the old device is offline
Once the new phone works, power off the broken phone if it still turns on, and remove its SIM so it cannot compete for the same line. Keep the carrier account open unless you intentionally want a new number.
You should see: Only the new phone is registered on the plan.
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Extra tips
What to look for: Active carrier account for the old line, physical SIM vs eSIM, unlock status of the new phone, and No Service or SOS-only after activation
Before you change anything: Write down the carrier account login and the phone number on the plan. Confirm the new phone is carrier-unlocked or bought for that carrier. Back up the old phone’s data if it still powers on briefly. Do not cancel the old line until the new phone is working on the same number.