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Make the seamless switch

You’ll still get the same reliable wireless coverage—the only difference is it’s free.

Want to keep your phone and your current phone number? No problem.

  • To make sure you get the best network experience with TextNow, let’s check if your phone is compatible.


    Ensure your device is unlocked:
View guide here

    If your phone is unlocked, you can check its compatibility by entering your IMEI below

    Need help finding your IMEI?

    For iPhone

    Settings > General > About

    For Android

    Settings > About Phone > Status

    Basics of IMEI 

    What is an IMEI number? 

    An IMEI number is like your phone’s unique fingerprint – it’s a 15-digit code that identifies your specific mobile device.  

    What is an IMEI number used for? 

    An IMEI number is used to identify your specific phone, so carriers can allow it on their network, and in the case that it gets stolen, carriers can blacklist the IMEI, rendering the phone unusable on any network.  

    What is the code #06 for IMEI? 

    Dialing the code #06 on your phone pops up the IMEI number, so you can more quickly and easily find it.  

    IMEI Check & What It Reveals 

    What does an IMEI check tell me?

     An IMEI check determines whether your phone is compatible with the carrier you’re trying to bring the phone to.  

    Will my IMEI check show if my phone is locked to another carrier? 

    No, an IMEI check cannot determine if your phone is locked to another carrier. To do that, you would have to contact the original carrier it was bought from to confirm.  

    Does the IMEI check reveal if my phone is financed? 

    No, an IMEI check cannot directly reveal if a phone is financed. If you stop paying for the phone, the original carrier it’s with can blacklist it, in which case the IMEI check will list it as blacklisted. 

    Will an IMEI check show if my phone supports eSIM? 

    Yes, most carriers’ IMEI checks will confirm if your phone is eSIM compatible.  

    What happens if my IMEI isn’t recognized? 

    If your IMEI isn’t recognized, then it won’t be eligible for activation with your chosen carrier. Your IMEI might not be recognized if it’s counterfeit, altered, or not supported (bought from a foreign manufacturer that isn’t recognized in the U.S).  

    Can I check IMEI number for free? 

    Yes, all carrier IMEI checks are free.

    Can I check IMEI number if my phone is unlocked? 

    Yes, an IMEI check cannot determine if your phone is locked or unlocked, it only checks for other compatibility factors.  

    Finding Your IMEI 

    How to find IMEI number 

    • IPhone 
      Open the Phone app and dial *#06#  OR 
      Go to Settings -> General -> About  
    • Android 
      Open the Phone app and dial *#06#  OR 
      Go to Settings -> About Phone-> Status   

    Compatibility & Restrictions 

    Can I use a blacklisted phone on your network? 

    No, blacklisted phones cannot be used on our network.  

    Why is my phone marked incompatible if it worked on another carrier? 

    Your phone may be marked incompatible if it uses different network bands than what is supported on the chosen carrier. While one carrier may use or allow those bands, others are not guaranteed to do the same.  

    How can I unlock my phone if the IMEI check says it’s locked? 

    IMEI checks can’t determine if your phone is locked. If you confirm your phone is locked via its original carrier, you can simply contact that carrier for instructions on how to unlock it.  

    What are the options if my phone is incompatible? 

    If your phone is incompatible, you can look into purchasing a different phone that can be activated with the carrier.