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Looking to save money by switching to a Tello plan? After you've verified service in your area with our Tello coverage map, your next move is to activate your SIM card.

Below, I'll walk you through everything you need to know to activate your Tello SIM card.

How do I activate my Tello SIM?

The activation process varies depending on whether you have a physical SIM card or an eSIM.

Activating Tello eSIM

If you have an eSIM-compatible device and opted for a Tello eSIM plan:

  • Connect your device to a Wi-Fi network.
  • Scan the QR code provided when you bought your plan.
  • Follow the on-screen activation instructions.

Activating a Tello SIM card

  • Visit the "My SIM" area in your Tello online account.
  • Fill out the necessary field(s) and follow the instructions.
  • After the website verifies that activation is complete, which can take up to 20 minutes, give it an extra 5 minutes.
  • Put the new Tello GSM SIM into your phone (with the logo facing up) and turn it on.
  • Follow any on-screen directions given; your phone should start to activate the service automatically.

Tello APN settings

If you bring your own phone to Tello, you may need to configure the settings for your new carrier. Don't worry, though - it's a quick and easy process.


Activating Tello on an Android phone

Here are the steps for configuring Tello settings on your own Android phone:

  • Go to Settings > More networks (or Connections, More, Wireless & networks, Wireless Controls, Wireless Manager, Phone Information).
  • Choose Mobile or Cellular networks.
  • Select Access Point Names.
  • Tap the Menu icon.
  • Tap New APN and enter the following APN: wholesale.

Save the APN settings and restart your phone. Make a call, send a text message, and load a webpage to confirm successful SIM activation.


Activating Tello on an Apple iPhone

For iPhone, access settings in one of the following locations:

  • Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data Options > Cellular Network

OR

  • Settings > Mobile Data > Mobile Data Options > Mobile Data Network

Then enter the following APN settings:

Mobile Data

  • APN: wholesale

MMS

  • APN: service
  • MMSC: http://wholesale.mmsmvno.com/mms/wapenc

Personal Hotspot

  • APN: wholesale
  • Leave everything else blank.

Double-check that your iOS software is updated, restart your phone, and test the service.


Activating your Tello SIM card FAQs


Recap

Getting your Tello service activated is quick and convenient. All you need to do is follow the provided instructions to get started on your new affordable phone plan.

Compare the cheapest eSIM plans available from the best eSIM carriers.

Tello FAQs

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