What Tello customers can expect when we’ll be switching to the GSM network
🧐 Why did the 2 telecom giants merge?
If this was the very first question that popped in your mind, you’re a thinker, just like us! We have the answer right from the GSM operator that states on its website the following: “We’ve united and are combining our resources to bring customers the coverage, service, and value they deserve. We are taking things to an entirely new level! We’re building a transformative nationwide 5G network that will drive innovation and connect every American […] we’ll build the highest-capacity nationwide network in U.S. history.”
⏰ I’m already a Tello customer, what do I need to do?
If you’re an existing Tello customer, there’s nothing you need to do yet. The device you enrolled to Tello will still work, your phone plan and pricing won’t change, and you can get the same great Tello value and service as always – no need to worry!
💭 Rest assured: here at Tello, we are already working intensively to implement the GSM service by the end of 2020 but this will not mean an immediate cutoff for your CDMA (only) compatible phone. We’re not the pull-the-rug-from-under-your-feet type of people. Instead, you will see a very gradual switch with lots of opportunities to change trains. We will keep our customers updated with any migration steps that may be of interest to them and everybody will be notified well ahead of time on how to ensure that their service is not affected. We will provide at least 3 months of notice prior to a closure of the CDMA network and then (if you have not already switched over from CDMA phones) provide you information on how you can keep using the Tello service.
💭 Extra good news: Older CDMA phones will work up until the end of 2021 and our great value plans will not be changed. Plus, many CDMA devices on Tello will already be compatible with the new network.
📲 Do I need a New Phone now?
No, not yet. The new network will continue basic CDMA voice service even on older phones until the end of 2021.
💭 Keep an eye on older CDMA devices: Please be advised however that data performance on some older CDMA phones (pre-2018) may decline noticeably as GSM turns over to 5G. Those older phones will not benefit from the expansion in coverage, speed, and call quality that will come from joining the new expanded network.
🤳 Will I need a new phone when the GSM service is eventually available on Tello?
Maybe, but not necessarily. If you bought a phone in the past 2 years — such as a recent iPhone or Galaxy — it likely already has support for both networks. Same goes for iPhone XR, XS, or later that should be good for the full GSM experience, but devices older than 2018 may not be able to tap into the full capabilities of the new network.
💭 Have your eye on a new phone? Here’s what to look for: If you intend to buy a new phone in the near future, we recommend that you ensure that it is both GSM and CDMA compatible and that it was released no earlier than 2018. To best use the new network, your phone needs to have, as minimum requirements LTE frequency bands 2, 4, 12 + VoLTE and when talking about an ideal connection: bands 2, 4, 12, 66, 71 + VoLTE. Key takeaway: Regardless of the phone brand you fancy, always go for a device that supports voice over 4G (VoLTE), which will help make the most of the newly expanded network.
💭 Here’s your sign: If, after Tello has implemented the new network, you see your phone performance declining, you’ll know that a phone upgrade will help.
☎️ How will I know for sure if my phone will work on the new network?
As soon as the GSM service is available (before the end of the year), customers will then be able to check the device compatibility of their existing phone with the new network on our Bring your own device page.
⁉️ How do I know that the Tello devices you sell will work on the new network also?
Really simple. On our Phones page, choose a device and then click on “View Details”. Scroll down to the “Technology” field under Tech Specs. If it says “VoLTE” in that field then YES, it will also work with the new network. Simple as that.
📍 Will my coverage be improved?
Yes! We have been waiting a long time for this question :)! As soon as the GSM network is implemented on Tello, users who move on to the new network should start to see improvements in coverage. Can we get a hip – hip – hooray?
👀 Will my plan change?
📡 Any news on 5G?
For the best 5G experience that can tap into everything a combined network will offer – including the GSM’s network low-band and millimetre-wave networks and the CDMA’s mid-band 5G spectrum – you’ll need to have a 2020 phone such as Samsung’s Galaxy S20 Plus 5G or Ultra 5G. Both of those Samsung phones, regardless of where it’s bought, should work with the other’s 5G networks. However, other 5G phones may only be able to use a certain 5G network in very specific areas of the country.
👌Is this good or bad news for me as a Tello customer?
Extra benefits of the merger, you ask? Both networks will combine to create one supercharged network with average speeds 8x faster than current LTE in just a few years and 14x more total capacity in the next six years – much faster and bigger than either company could have done alone.
In other words, improved coverage, faster data speeds, and a super-stable network – all at the same great Tello rates! Woo-wee!!
I’m curious if the iPhone SE I just bought from Tello will work with the new network.
So far all my research shows it should, but would like it if Tello may confirm this.
My research included checking the bands for the SE on PhoneScoop and WillMyPhoneWork.net and both show at least basic support for T-Mobile. It also included entering the IMEI on T-Mobile’s BYOD checker and they state the device is compatible too.
Also, will this change entail changes in the Network Name shown on the phones?
Like will network name status start saying “Tello” or T-Mobile even?
Drako, I have confirmation that the Network Name will be indeed changed :). But we’ll have to get back to you with the specifics. Have a great day!
Dear Maria,
Will Tello after moving over to the GSM network be able to support Apple smart watch series 6 in which both Apple and Samsung smart watch use a imbedded eSIM card. It would be great from a business standpoint for your company if you do
Alvin, I get your point, thanks, but no eSIM for now, sorry. Thanks for the suggestion!
Being that almost all of the phones operating under Tello service currently say “SPRINT” – NOT “Tello”, the applicable logic dictates that [starting in 2021] they all will change to saying “T-mobile” – NOT “Tello”!
PS, FYI, AFAIK, most phones DO ALLOW you to change it to whatever YOU want it to say. As you may (or may not) have guessed, I AM one of those who DOES change it! I always do change mine so that they say: “Tello”
This actually entirely depends on the kind of contract between T-Mobile and Tello. If T-Mobile really wants to keep the parent network “hidden” for Tello customers – and by the changes Tello has been making both to this entry and their site, it appears the contract will be as such – then T-Mobile can provision Tello SIMs to make the devices say “Tello” for the network name.
This provisioning can be dynamic since they did it with other MVNO’s. Red Pocket, Boom, Boost, Google FI, and Kroger Wireless all have their own network names. Metro (as I used to be a customer during the re-brand) used to say MetroPCS as the network name but was retroactively changed by T-Mobile to read “Metro by T-Mobile” after the re-brand.
Hello Mobile is another one where the network just says “Home” but never T-Mobile. (However, iPhones tend to change the network name to the underlying network currently in use by default. Not sure if there is a setting to change it for iPhones.)
My Tello Android phone (a Moto e4) always just said “Moto” as the network.
At least from my experiences with iPhones, I’ve only seen the carrier name of the connected carrier. (Even seen one switch to the carrier it was roaming onto.)
As I mentioned in my comment, my android devices on Tello said neither Tello or Sprint, but “Moto” and “LG” respectively. (One was a Motorola, the other an LG.)
My husband on the other hand has Hello Mobile, and his LG (which I borrowed while waiting for my iPhone to arrive from Tello) said “LG” and when I switched him to a T-Mobile BYOD (a T-Mobile Samsung he had lying around) phone on Hello, it just says “Home” as the Carrier Name.
Hello again,
I’m here with good news: the iPhone SE you bought from Tello will work with the new network.
All devices that have VoLTE in the Technology box on Tello website will be compatible with the new network.
Thanks!
Will my iPhone 7 plus, model A1661 be compatible with the new network? Thanks!
Here’s the thing: as much as I pride myself on knowing the ins and outs of the upcoming migration, I’m not that good at fortune-telling yet.
Let’s just say that for now, I’m more of a Doctor Strange, and see multiple possibilities. That’s why the sure-fire way of knowing is to have your device checked on our site when everything is live.
I’m keeping my fingers crossed for you.
Thanks & stay safe,
Maria
I’m very excited about the merger and all the benefits we will gain. Are any if the GSM SIMS readily available for current customers. I am very interested.
Richard, thanks for reaching out. We’re super excited too :D.
As for your question, at the moment, customers are not able to obtain a Tello GSM SIM card since we did not start onboarding to the new network. Once the GSM integration is complete, everybody will be able to order GSM SIMs and change the network while keeping the number and services, thanks!
Will you support esim?
Chris, no news about ESIMs, sorry. Maybe this will change in the future because we definitely want to have the latest tech, but for now, it’s a no. Have a great day, thanks!
So will we all be required to buy a new sim card or will that be part of the service switch?
Hi, Shelly,
Yes, everyone will need a new SIM. At the moment, customers are not able to obtain a Tello GSM SIM card since we did not start onboarding to the new network. More news on SIMs and other details will be coming up soon, so make sure you’re a newsletter subscriber or you follow us on social media, thanks!
Hi Maria,
So just to be clear. If we were to sign up for Tello today and pay $10 for a Sprint SIM card, we’d have to pay again in a couple months for a T-Mobile SIM card?
At the first phase of the launch, the new GSM SIMs will be paid.
In the next phase, when migration will open for active customers, they will be able to get the SIM free of charge.
As soon as the migration process will begin, everybody will be notified about the changes, so if you’re a newsletter subscriber or follow us on Social media, you won’t miss the news about the SIMs. Thanks a lot!
Found this, after a telecon with a Tello rep told me, I would have to pay for a new sim! I purchased a IPhone purposely, cause my current phone will no longer work on change over. Now, I would like to get the needed sim for my new phone with out losing service during my migration. Is this plan going to wok out?
Frank, we’re working overtime so that nobody suffers any inconvenience or loss of service during the migration. Your phone plan, billing date and everything else will not be affected by the upcoming transition.
When SIMs are available, everybody we’ll be notified, promise!
Thanks for reaching out!
May I suggest that Tello begins including information on the phones page as to which phones they sell are compatible with the new network? Boost has done something similar by adding a line on the info page for each phone stating either “This phone is compatible with our new extended network” or “This phone is compatible with our nationwide network.” (T-Mobile vs Sprint)
Excellent idea!
See this, Tello? Please do what Drako suggested. Thank you.
Yesss!!! Please do what Drako said!!
Thank you for the information. Unfortunately, according to the Boost Mobile web page for the phone that I use with Tello, the phone is “compatible with our nationwide network” (that is, the phone will not be usable once T-Mobile sunsets the Sprint CDMA network).
However, according to the specification sheet of the phone, it is capable of using the “ideal” combination (LTE bands 2, 4, 12, 66, 71 + VoLTE). I’ll try the Tello GSM network compatibility checker after it becomes available.
May I inquire as to which device it may be?
The phone is an LG Tribute Royal. Open https://www.lg.com/us/support/products/documents/Specs_LG_TributeRoyal_Sprint.pdf for the specification sheet.
Open https://www.boostmobile.com/phones/lg-tribute-royal.html for the Boost Mobile web page.
It appears that the Tribute Royal was an LG CDMA specific device, so it may not actually have all the bands listed on it’s spec sheet and therefore may not be compatible.
I do remember using an IMEI check for my husbands Tribute Royal on T-Mobile and they said it was not compatible.
What will transition to GSM look like?
Will I need a new GSM sim card for my IPhone XR?
There will be plenty of time for current customers to switch to the new network, no worries.
During this time, Tello will have service on both networks.
Once an existing customer decides to switch to the GSM network, he will need to order a new GSM SIM. All customers will need new SIMs for switching to the GSM network
Hope this helps, thanks!
Hello
My Pixel 2XL will accommodate both GSM and CDMA networks. Will I still need a new phone or will Tello provide another GSM sims card?
Thanks
As soon as the GSM service is available on Tello.com (before the end of the year), you can check that particular device to make sure it’s a match. More news on SIMs and other details will be coming up soon, so make sure you’re a newsletter subscriber or you follow us on social media, thanks!
I hope they don’t make us pay another $10 for the GSM SIM.
I have an unlocked Moto G4 XT1625 from 2016 that I am using on Tello. In 2016, it was compatible with T-Mobile. gsmarena says it has bands 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 13, 25, 26, 41 – XT1625.
Obviously I use it with a Tello(Sprint) sim card, can I obtain a new TMO sim card and use the same Tello account and phone number? How?
I assume it won’t get volte, but it should function well otherwise as a 4g phone?
https://www.gsmarena.com/motorola_moto_g4-8103.php
Hi, Jerry,
Good news: the Moto G4 XT1625 will be compatible with the new GSM network.
At the moment, customers are not able to obtain a Tello GSM SIM card since we did not start onboarding to the new network. Once the GSM integration is complete, customers will be able to order GSM SIMs and change the network while keeping the number and services, thanks!
Maria,
Will I lose all data that I accumulated with your service as I currently have over 25GB of data as of 10/21/2020 when I switch over from the CDMA to the new GSM Sim card when the transfer to T-Mobile GSM network is completed?
Alvin,
Your subscription and billing cycle will not be affected by the migration, so no worries on this matter! Thanks!
Hi Maria,
How is Tello communicating info about all of these changes? I am stuck outside of the US now for going on 10 months. I maintain my Tello service and at times use the app to check for VM. I have no access to texts and have never received any emails with transition info from Tello.
Thanks, Stephen
Hi, Stephen,
Thanks so much for reaching out. I must admit that I’m a bit jealous to hear about your extended travelling.
Regarding the migration to GSM, when it will begin, everybody will receive an email from us, app notifications, there will be new articles on our blog, posts about the news on our social media – pretty much the works, don’t worry.
You’ll get a prompt via email, but also, please make sure you follow us on FB or Instagram if possible, subscribe to our newsletter – it’s fun and check the Tello App for notifications.
Safe travels and talk to you soon, thanks!
The Moto G4 and G4 Plus are VoLTE capable. Once you switch to the GSM network, check Settings…Wireless & Networks…More….Cellular Networks, and slide Enhanced 4G LTE Mode to “on”. Restart phone. You don’t see that on your phone now because Tello’s current network doesn’t offer it.
Hey this is great as a low income person and yes a independent artist by DistroKid and My Label Latigo Music Group. Access to Both Networks Huge!!!
How will Tello determine which devices currently in use can be migrated over to T-Mobile’s network?
Is it something like what we can do by entering our devices IMEI into T-Mobiles checker online – only done via some internal system?
Also, would it be like adding ROAMAHOME to our account/device profiles or would we be getting new SIM cards? (I’ve heard many Sprint customers are now able to go to a T-Mobile store to get a new T-Mobile SIM for their current Sprint devices, which apparently is adding some other provisions so we can use the SIMs.)
Drako, so many good questions :D! I’m sure a lot of people are wondering about these, so thanks a lot for being a part of the conversation.
Here are the answers, hope they shed some light:
– The devices that are able to be migrated over to the new network need to have several technical specifications in order to be compatible with the GSM network.
– The BYOP checker you’ve mentioned is not necessarily representative for Tello’s future GSM network compatibility. Once the GSM network is available with Tello, the checker on the Tello BYOD page will accurately reflect compatibility.
– A big chunk of our customer base already has devices that will be compatible with the new GSM network.
– In order to access the new GSM network, all customers will need new Tello GSM SIM Cards. There is no other way around it.
Once I get more info, I’ll be glad to share it.
Thanks!
Will current subscribers with compatible devices be informed when it becomes possible to migrate over to T-Mobile?
Yes, of course!
Since Tello’s current phones are Sprint CDMA phones, is there some sort of setup that needs to be done before getting the new GSM SIMs?
Drako, no news of a special setup, but I can tell you this: If your device is not compatible with the GSM network, there’s no need to worry: we will continue to support CDMA services until the end of 2021 and will also offer a lot of opportunities for you to upgrade your device.
Does Tello have any plans to support eSIM in the future? That would sure make it easier for many Galaxy, Pixel and iPhone customers to switch to the new network. And Tello could gain a lot more customers for the new network once other cellphone users learn how easy it would be to switch to Tello’s excellent service plans.
It’s on my list, R B, but I have no answer to this for now. Thanks!
I have a Samsung S6 Phone that I am currently using with Tello. Will this phone work after the transition to T-Mobile.
Kevin, sorry, but the S6 will not be a match once the GSM network is in place. However, we will continue to support CDMA services until the end of 2021 and will also offer a lot of opportunities for you to upgrade your device, thanks!
Will Tello customers be eligible for promos like T-Mobile Tuesdays?
Hi, Ryan, unfortunately, it’s a no for those special Tuesdays, that’s their thing :). But we do promise to come up with great new things to make it worth your while, thanks!
This is concerning. At a time when senior citizens are being pushed in all directions, straining budgets with incredible costs, some due to Covid, but most due to greediness, having to go for a new cell phone is really devastating. Is Tello planning on special deals for senior customers who have incompatible phones???
Gloria, we feel you! I’m sure a lot of people are struggling these days and can relate to your words, so thanks for taking a stand!
We’re doing our best to make this transition as pain-free as possible and we promise to keep our low rates intact, so no worries on this part. Any promos will take into consideration all our customers’ needs and that’s why I appreciate you reaching out and expressing your desires. Thanks a lot! Stay safe!
Also, many of Tello’s devices appear to already be compatible.
Mainly they need to support T-Mobile’s LTE and VoLTE bands and if you’re device doesn’t support it, Tello is currently even offering that $50 flip phone that does.
I don’t really feel like (out of greediness) is the right way to put it at all. Tello is making their service compatible with tons more phones, giving almost everyone better coverage, better quality over all (VoLTE), and making it easier to add a phone to Tello. You should not have to worry, because, as stated above, you won’t NEED to switch until AT LEAST mid-2021. I don’t think you have much to worry about. If you need a new phone, I think Tello will offer great options. That being said, you don’t necessarily need a new phone, and if you do, your call quality will be greatly improved.
Gloria,
I agree. I recently got a phone from Tello. I had my last phone for such a long time and it is upsetting my Tello phone is not compatible. I will have to get a new phone and I am just getting used to the one I have. I hope that Tello will provide some amazing deals for us that must purchase a new phone.
1. Tello, are you able to provide more phones online? There are not many choices.
2. Can you provide minute rollover or data rollover as a bonus without expiration?
3. What other features can you provide to assist with your current customers?
my iPhone 6 plus is a “global” 1524A with dual capability, GSM and CDMA . Am i good to go when the change occurs ?
Barry, as far as we know, it should work and you should be good to go when the change happens :). A double-check of compatibility when the GSM service is available on site might not be a bad idea, since that is the only way to know for sure. Thanks!
Will my Samsung J3 Achieve be compatible with the new GSM network?
If not, is there a list of devices that are compatible?
I’d much rather switch switch phones sooner rather than later if my J3 won’t work.
Mike, bad news for your J3, so sorry, but it won’t work on our new GSM. It’s not him, it’s…us.
So, if you can, please look for a new device that is a match, because we’ll be waiting for you here. Thanks!
If you’d like to upgrade to a phone that is compatible, any device on Tello’s site that supports VoLTE will be compatible with the new network. Just look at the Tech box on the phones page.
How soon would I be able to take advantage of the T-Mobile network? I have an iPhone XS and have been struggling with coverage issues in my area; and I want to be the first in line to make the switch.
Benjamin, we’re sooooo excited that you want to be among the first to join the new Tello GSM network, thanks! We will let you know when this will be possible, please keep an eye on our social media as well and of course, do subscribe to our newsletter – so you can be the first to know. Thanks!
When will the gsm switch occur? I would like to buy a new phone and will wait until then
We’re excited that you want to be among the first to join the new Tello GSM network. Stay tuned, we will let you know when this will be possible.
What will the cost of the SIM card be?
Gordon, as promised, our pricing stays the same. However any good news & further details will be shared in the newsletter, so make sure you are subscribed ;) Thanks!
Eeek. Sprint and T-Mobile are both not so great cell service providers. I get 0 service via gsm and 1-2bars CDMA LTE service. And I’m in the Miami metro area. So, basically once the transition is complete and I’m required to get a GSM SIMcard, I will no longer receive any usable service. At least it’s only $14/mo. I actually get better data speed and call quality on 3g. Sad.
I’m pretty sure you will begin to notice a major decline in Sprint service soon.
Though I still say patience is a virtue, because where there used to be Sprint Service, T-Mobile will get bolstered service, once all the dust settles.
I have the Moto E4, bought it on Tello’s website. will this still work on the GSM?
Oh, Rick, I hate to deliver bad news, but since MOTO E4 is an older model, it won’t be a match for the new GSM network, sorry.
Since customers will have to get a new SIM to access the GSM network, this would be a great time to add support for eSIMs. Please?
Philip, this might be happening in the future, but for now, it’s a no for the eSIMs. Thanks!
You mentioned new phones to be able to take advantage of 5G. Will the new Samsung A71 take full advantage of the 5G network Tello will have?
John, please let me take this opportunity to tell you and everyone else here that is curious about their specific device that unfortunately, I don’t have all the answers for every model at this point. I’m sure that after researching all the questions, I’ll become a device guru and get to brag about it to my team, but until then I’d like to thank everybody for their patience and understanding.
This being said, the only way to know for sure is to check phone compatibility on our site after the GSM network is available, but we sure hope we’ll have you on board with no problems. Thanks!
If you would like to check to see what bands your phone supports, I’d suggest phonescoop.com
According to them, the A71 will be compatible with T-Mobile’s network as long as it wasn’t purchased from Verizon.
Though I also have my own small secret, a wireless review site that I myself run that lists the tech bands for each carrier (but those are also on Wikipedia).
You state, “minimum requirements LTE frequency bands 2, 4, 12 + voLTE”. Where do we find these specs for a phone? I don’t see them on Amazon, or even Samsung’s own website.
Forum people have a wealth of information related to anything tech – or life – related, on that matter. I always turn to Reddit or Quora for difficult issues and people are really very insightful, but that’s just one of my things.
I found this – https://www.gsmarena.com/samsung_galaxy_s10-9536.php – you should search for your own phone, of course, and once you found it, go to Network section and expand it to see the bands. Hope this helps, thanks!
Another good place to look for most phones is phonescoop.com
Will Pay as You Go credit be fine during the merge? Or do you anticipate any changes to it?
So far, the only thing I know about all Tello services is that they won’t suffer any changes. As promised, our pricing stays the same. However any good news will be shared in the newsletter, so make sure you are subscribed ;)
what is the oldest iPhone i can use on this new GSM?
Ari, good question, thanks! In theory, any iPhone 6 and newer should work, but it’s not guaranteed. The best way to know is to check the device compatibility of your existing phone with the new network on our website – as soon as the GSM service is available at Tello, of course. Thanks!
I have Moto E (2nd gen) and LG Volt phones that are used on Tello. I bought them brand new back in 2015. The Moto E (2nd gen) phones were sold as Sprint prepaid or Boost Mobile phones, and the LG Volt was sold as a Virgin Mobile phone. How will these be affected as I’m not sure what bands they support? The SKU for the LG Volt model is LGLS740AVB, the Sprint Moto E is MOT1626ASB and for the Boost Mobile Moto E, it’s MOT1526BBB.
Daniel, unfortunately, those devices are too old to work on the new GSM network, we’re so sorry. Based on the info we have right now, they won’t be a match. If you still want to enjoy the great Tello prices, please get a newer device for the future. Thanks & have a great day!
I have a Moto G 6 phone i purchased Nov 2019 is that still going to be useable when the change happens?
Sharon, I think your device should work, however, it depends on the model. The sure-fire way to know is to check its compatibility on our site when the GSM changes are in place, thanks!
As an example, a Samsung A10e is available on the T-Mobile website, with the bands you listed. If I get this phone now, will a SIM card I purchased from you a year ago work in it? now, or later?
Hi, JJ,
Your old SIM card will need to be replaced by a GSM SIM, but they’re not yet available. Please keep an eye on us for more info to come on the exact date, thanks!
When is the soonest that prospective customers with GSM-compatible phones can switch to Tello?
Daniel, we love your enthusiasm, thanks for the question. Please stay tuned, we promise to let you know when this will be possible. Have a great day!
So alongside my main suggestion of putting a notation as to which phones are compatible with the new network on Tello’s site (or removing phones that won’t be from being sold) I think this is huge news and should be noted on the main page of Tello’s site.
It would be bad if people sign up now with say that Moto e4 that Tello sells only to have to buy a new phone in 3-6 months.
The Moto E4 will be compatible with the new network. You really shouldn’t be making comments like this without knowing first what you’re talking about.
Lance, I hope the Moto E4 will work. the tello representative commented on my question above and stated that the Moto E4 will not work, but I did some research and it should work with the new VOLTE?
So, I was asking around about the e4 on Howard Forums.
Apparently Motorola has been known to make “carrier specific” versions of all their devices.
Since the Sprint Version of the Moto e4 never got the VoLTE firmware from Sprint/Motorola, it is unlikely it will be able to work on T-Mobile’s network since T-Mobile does require VoLTE. Especially since Motorola is no longer updating the e4.
According to Maria Dima, the main rep from Tello, the e4 will not work. Look at the comments above. She even states only phones listed on Tello’s site that list VoLTE (not just LTE) will be compatible with the new network.
Even the BLOG article itself states (perhaps from all our comments about the phones sold by Tello) that only phones listed with VoLTE support will work on the new network.
Mind you, my moto e4 that I bought from Tello literally broke a couple weeks ago. It stopped accepting any charging cables.
That being said, I went shopping for a new device on Tello’s site on 9/26 due to now needing a phone that would charge. I noticed the change from when I bought the e4 almost a year ago. They quietly started advertising which phones support VoLTE, so I figured this announcement was coming and decided to go with the cheapest smart phone that supported VoLTE (my new iPhone SE).
https://www.tmonews.com/2018/03/moto-e4-now-available-t-mobile/
The Moto E4 supports 4G LTE bands 1/2/4/5/7/8/12 as well as HD Voice and VoLTE on T-Mobile., (this was taken from the article that I posted a link to) https://www.tmonews.com/2018/03/moto-e4-now-available-t-mobile/
That would be the e4 that Motorola made for T-Mobile, which is a different version altogether with different tech built in. The Sprint version (XT1766) never had certain firmware (like VoLTE) that would make it compatible with T-Mobile and is no longer updated to be able to get said firmware. (So unless T-Mobile itself devises a forced fix to these phones, surpassing Motorola, they will not work.)
It took some digging, but the Sprint Variant of the Moto e4 (XT1766) is also missing bands 2 and 4 (which are part of the minimum required to be compatible with T-Mobile), according to BestBuy (which is still selling Sprint):
https://www.bestbuy.com/site/motorola-moto-e4-16gb-licorice-black-sprint/5938302.p?skuId=5938302
Screenshot from their site:
https://ibb.co/34GmK88
The official model is MOT1766BLK and is only compatible with Sprint.
This only confirms what I was told by numerous others on Howard Forums, Motorola makes carrier specific versions of devices and those devices may not be compatible with another carrier.
Moto E4 compatibility appears to depend on which model it is. I have the unlocked model, XT1768 currently operating on T-Mobile. On their (T-Mobile’s) BYOD page you can put in the IMEI to determine if your E4 is compatible.
The model number is also available under settings-about phone-hardware info. The XT1768 does have VoLTE, can be found in settings-cellular networks, where it is called “enhanced 4G LTE mode”.
After I migrated, I looked for the “HD” on my calls to others I knew had the capability, but no go. Tello CustServe filled me in: “we don’t offer that service”!
Lance, it’s taken a while to get back at you because I’ve escalated this issue with the entire team.
Here’s the thing with HD calls – this was new for me too, but in the migration process, we are all newbies and learning one day/case at a time, so thanks for your patience!
If the person you’re calling also has this capability, then the HD should be displayed during the call.
If you are sure that you called using our service and the other party also had this capability, but the HD was not displayed during the call, our Customer support team urges you to contact them again, please, with more details, so that we can investigate this properly.
Thanks & talk to you soon,
Maria
Allow me to Quote from the comments above:
”
Rick says:
October 13, 2020 at 11:28 am
I have the Moto E4, bought it on Tello’s website. will this still work on the GSM?
Reply
Maria Dima
Maria Dima says:
October 15, 2020 at 8:48 am
Oh, Rick, I hate to deliver bad news, but since MOTO E4 is an older model, it won’t be a match for the new GSM network, sorry.
Reply”
I’m not getting a straight answer about the Coolpad Snap being able to operate when they change over to GSM. Does anybody know if their change to GSM will make the Coolpad Snap obsolete and not be able to function.
Does anybody know if the Coolpad Snap will continue to work when Tello changes over to GSM? It might be better to buy Moto E4, so the transition will be smooth.
Roberta, we have good news: the Coolpad Snap should work just fine on Tello GSM, but when the changes are live on our site, you can check its compatibility just to be sure, because it does depend on the model. Thanks!
I have a TCL 10 Pro device in my hands which is unlocked but not compatible with sprint. I believe this device would be compatible with T-mobile in the USA. Would this device work on the future Tello? I am using a sprint version device from 2016 currently.
Hi Sara,
Instead of a definitive answer, I’m here with some #wordsofwisdom that might sweeten the wait: “the 2 most powerful warriors are patience & time”.
As soon as the GSM service is available (before the end of the year), you will be able to check the device compatibility of your existing phone with the new network on our website. Thanks!
Will the Moto E5 Play GSM work on the new network?
As soon as the GSM service is available on Tello (before the end of the year), you will be able to check the device compatibility of your phone with the new network directly on our website. Thanks!
I’m looking into getting a Samsung S9 from daily steals it states its unlocked and GSM and CDMA
will that be compatible with the switch over.
I currently have S4 but I know it won’t be good for network when it switches over and the phone is about die as well keeps rebooting or crashing.
Hi, Dan,
There’s no way of knowing for sure until the GSM service is live on Tello.com and you can check the device compatibility on site. Sorry to hear about your phone bailing on you, I know the feeling. Have a great day!
I’m going be waiting until next year for refurbished unlocked phone prices will come down by then and I can be sure about the network switch thanks or the information.
Dan, I think it’s the best way to go! Have a great day!
When will Tello enable true Wi-fi calling?
Promise to let you know asap, thanks!
When will Tello implement true Wi-Fi calling?
I promise that you, our customers, will be the first ones to know. For this, make sure you’re subscribed to our newsletter, thanks!
I am a bit curious as to if there is some sort of time frame or updates available regarding the change. Like how does the on boarding thing work and about when could we expect any update?
Drako, my best advice on this one is to make sure you’re subscribed to our newsletter and follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tellomobile/ – we will share every new piece of info there and I’m also there preparing answers and post for all of you. Thanks!
Reason I ask is because my phone is becoming unusable where I live and am trying to be super patient for the new network and SIM’s. Would be nice if we were getting some kind of updates and/or something on the main site letting us know what’s going on. Thing is, I need my phone to work and don’t really want to switch if I can get over to the expanded network soon.
Drako, I feel you, thanks for the patience and all the help you’ve put in for the people that have reached out here, as well. Much appreciated!
I have no news yet, but I can assure you everybody at Tello is working hard to make the change happen asap.
You guys will see a prompt in your account and via email, as always and the site will display the changes as well. Thanks!
Maria Dimasays:
October 15, 2020 at 8:48 am
Oh, Rick, I hate to deliver bad news, but since MOTO E4 is an older model, it won’t be a match for the new GSM network, sorry.
Is this true for the unlocked Moto E4? I have a Moto E4 that has been on the Tmobile network before. Will it be required upon transition to have VoLTE and 5G compatible or will these features be optional until full implementation?
Sorry for the bad news related to your Moto E4, Jeff.
We will continue to support CDMA services until the end of 2021 and will also offer a lot of opportunities for you to upgrade your device, so you’re safe for now (I’m sorry this sounds like a Spooky Halloween movie trailer, but I promise you’ll have plenty of time). Thanks!
I’m not sure why Maria is saying an unlocked Moto E4 will not work on the T-mobile network. I have an unlocked Moto E4 that is currently using T-Mobile via one of their own prepaid plans.
If you go to T-Mobile’s BYOD web page you can put in your IMEI and it should verify that it will work well on their network.
I have a couple of T-Mobile SIM cards. Will I be able to use them when the GSM conversion takes place? Or, do I need to order new SIM?
Yes, everyone must have a new Tello branded GSM SIM Card, thanks for the question.
I still use flip phones will the Sprint (KYOCERAs) work
I am beginning to notice changes on the main site that is starting to remove references to Sprint in regards to coverage. Now it’s only listed in the footnotes under the Copyright.
Is this any sign as to the upcoming change to the T-Mobile network?? If so, how soon will the coverage map be updated and when will the new SIM’s become available?
Also, I am still suggesting that updates be made to the site and phones pages to reflect the upcoming network changes. Perhaps it would be a good time to stop selling devices that will not be compatible with the new network?
hi i have the older 3g models till when can be guaranteed it will work?
Hi, there,
As soon as the GSM service is available (before the end of the year), you will be able to check the device compatibility of your existing phone with the new network on our website. It’s the only way to know for sure. We’ll keep you posted, thanks!
If your device is 3G CDMA/EVDO only, then it is only guaranteed to work till the middle of 2021 with the entire Sprint CDMA network apparently slated to be shut down towards the end of 2021. I would suggest upgrading to a VoLTE device fairly soon, and no later than early 2021 – say January or February.
Once I move to T-mobile will I be able to use the service internationally without changing sim cards?
Will their plans offer free roaming?
Alison, once the migration is live, you’ll have all the details about everything. So please keep an eye on our newsletter – for super-specific news we share for our customers – and our social media channels. Thanks!
If you are using Tello service on T-Mobile’s network, it may be similar to what we have now. So roaming may not be an option here or abroad, since that would be an option Tello would have to enable, which would require having agreements with carriers abroad as well.
Hi Maria,
For today’s/ existing Tello customers, when migration begins, will the GSM SIM cards be provided by Tello for free? I wasn’t clear from your earlier comment.
Thanks!
Hi, John,
The migration will be done in several stages. All I can say at the moment is that when the migration will open for active customers, they’ll get the SIM free of charge.
More news on SIMs and other details will be coming up soon, so make sure you’re a newsletter subscriber or you follow us on social media, thanks!
Is there an ETA as to when the phase will occur where existing customers will be sent the free GSM SIM cards?
Thanks
I have an unlocked iPhone 8 from Verizon. I want to switch to tello. Since the phone is a CDMA+GSM phone, I believe it should work on both Sprint and T-mobile networks, but what about the SIM card? The one I have now is still the one from Verizon. Do I need a new one, and if so should I get a Sprint one or a T-mobile one? Thanks!
Hi, Brian,
While the chances look good for your phone, it will still have to be checked on our site when the new GSM service is live.
As far as SIMs are concerned, everybody will need to get a new Tello Branded GSM SIM from us. We’ll let you know when they are available, thanks!
What if my device only partially support the lte bands(2,4+Volte)? What will happen if I activate simcard use other phones and put the GSM simcard in my phone?
If Tello is switching us to T-Mobile, then you will not be able to use this device.
T-Mobile requires that it supports at least one of their lower bands (12, 71) for their “Extended Range LTE” and VoLTE for the device to be activated.
Many devices need to support as minimum requirements LTE frequency bands 2, 4, 12 + VoLTE and when talking about an ideal connection: bands 2, 4, 12, 66, 71 + VoLTE.
When the latest time to activate CDMA only device? Can I still activate CDMA device in early 2021?
I must say, this is an unexpected question since most of the people are asking if they can get on GSM faster.
Here’s what you need to know: New customers that want to join Tello will be onboarded directly to the new network, having all the benefits of the improved coverage from the get-go.
Thanks!
Technically, with the shuttering of the Sprint brand by T-Mobile, Sprint CDMA devices will no longer be activated.
Also, both Sprint and Verizon, have Stopped supporting the activation of CDMA only devices. Just like AT&T and T-Mobile no longer allow the activation of GSM only devices.
Sprint stopped activating CDMA only and forbade all MVNO’s from activating CDMA only back in 2019.
Verizon did the same exact thing back in 2018-2019.
So no you will not be able to activate any CDMA only device with the new network considering its an LTE/VoLTE network, and were now in an LTE/VoLTE world now.
It looks like T-Mobile will not be supporting the activation of CDMA only devices after 1/1/2021. This may or may not also entail any Sprint MVNOs.
PLEASE! Give us a clue?
Is there more information about an ETA since this announcement was made 6 weeks ago?
My phone is on the fritz. It’s started resetting when using various built-in hardware (GPS and camera) and I need to get a new phone as the resets are getting to be more frequent. I’m trying to figure out if I can hold out for a GSM phone as there are many more attractive options to choose from for a T-mobile-network-compatible phone than there are for a Sprint-network-compatible phone.
Please Tello! More info??? … And please make it sooner rather than later.
Thanks!
Nathan, I feel you!
We’re in this together!
I can tell you that we are in the final stages of testing the GSM network, and we’ll make an announcement when it will be live on our site and enrollment becomes open to the public. Countdown mode activated!
We have several Kyocera DuraXTP rugged flip phones in the family. They were Sprint but the spec sheet also lists multiple GSM channels. They do not take SIM cards, nor do I see LTE or VoLTE listed – will there be a way to reactivate these under the coming network configuration?
Specs: Radios:
CDMA: (1X, EVDO Rev. A) BC0/BC1/BC10 (800/1900MHz)
GSM/GPRS/EDGE: B5/B8/B3/B2 (850/900/1800/1900MHz), 1x Advanced
Brian, this is tricky.
I wanna be optimistic since they do work on GSM, as you said, but since there’s no VoLTE, I really couldn’t say.
Please have them checked on our site – https://tello.com/bring_your_own_phone – once our GSM is live.
All the best!
Those devices will not work on the new network. You say they list GSM bands, but no SIMs.
GSM carriers like T-Mobile require SIM cards for their LTE/VoLTE networks and are no longer activating GSM only devices – which also required SIMs. I think those phones were designed to work mainly on Sprint with GSM international roaming.
If they don’t have LTE/VoLTE, they cannot be used on the new network.
Thanks – well. forewarned is forearmed. It tells me to start looking for new phones.
Will WiFi calling become an option? (My grandmothers house has No Service from any carrier). If so, will it count against my minutes? Also, is the change happening Today, Monday, November 23?
Dear Zach,
No news on WiFi calling, sorry.
Here’s what I can vouch for: we’re in the final stages of testing the GSM network, and we’ll make an announcement when it will be live on our site and enrollment becomes open to the public. We’re counting down the days and we’re busy as we can be :). Thanks!
Hi,
any update on when we’ll migrate to GSM and get new sims?
A related question: will T-mobile be expanding , such as converting Sprint towers to the new T-mobile system? This is important to know because several years ago, T mobile reception was so bad here that I had to abandon trying to use it. If they will not be bringing more towers on line (that is, switching over the sprint system) then I see no future for us under that new system.
Brain, as much as I want to help, the answer should come from them.
I took the liberty of finding you an appropriate link: https://www.t-mobile.com/support/account/t-mobile-sprint-merger-faqs – hope this clears it up, thanks!
The relevant response on the linked site is more an ad than any actual (or actionable) information.
” Q – What will happen with Sprint and T-Mobile networks? How will the coverage change?
A – Strong, dependable network connectivity has never been more critical to customers or the country. As the two networks are combined, T-Mobile will deliver:
Massive Capacity! 14times more capacity in the next six years than T-Mobile alone—which means it will be even better for streaming, gaming, downloading and more.
Crazy-fast speed! Customers will have access to average 5G speeds up to eight times faster than current LTE in just a few years and 15 times faster over the next six years.
Reaching nearly everyone! Within six years, T-Mobile will provide 5G to 99% of the U.S. population, including rural America.
Our goal is to create the best network for ALL.”
T-Mobile will be keeping at least some Sprint sites and converting them to T-Mobile’s network. In some areas, the conversion is already happening.
Most Sprint sites in fringe areas for T-Mobile’s coverage are slated to be converted to T-Mobile. As for sites with overlapping coverage, the chances of them keeping Sprint sites are lower once all is said and done.
I just read that T-Mobile intends to have 20,000 more towers from and after the merger and migration is complete. In many areas, LTE is already being integrated and is now using T-Mobile’s backend while dual-casting for both networks.
What are the LTE / VoLTE Bands that I need to check my phone for, in order to use the GSM network, once it starts up?
I’d like to know both the minimum number of bands to work, as well as the optimal number of bands, and whether some bands are more important than others.
Hi, Sam,
Unfortunately, I’m not a band whisperer, although, in these times, it would have come in handy. But I do have an answer for you:
Ideally, your phone has to support, as minimum requirements LTE frequency bands 2, 4, 12 + VoLTE and when talking about an optimal connection: bands 2, 4, 12, 66, 71 + VoLTE. Always go for a device that supports voice over 4G (VoLTE), which will help make the most of the newly expanded network.
Hope it helps, thanks a lot!
I just tried to enroll on Tello, and click on the “Bring your phone” option. I have an unlocked Moto G7 Power, just bought last week.
After inputting my MEID, receiving the Congrats message, and clicking on the option to order the Tello Sim, I saw that I would be receiving the CDMA Sim:
“CDMA 4G LTE SIM”
However, I’ve just read in this blog’s Q&A (Dated Nov 25 from Maria Dima) that all new customers would be onboarded onto the GSM network: “New customers that want to join Tello will be onboarded directly to the new network, having all the benefits of the improved coverage from the get-go.”
Then why would I be booked to receive the CDMA Sim? Is this a future situation, not current?
I’ve canceled my order, and am awaiting clarification on this apparent discrepancy.
That quote is out of context, but was referring to _after_ the GSM network is live on Tello.
I am looking at the Motorola G7 plus to replace the CDMA phones on my account. These phones say they are compatible with T Mobile and have all necessary bands. Will these phones be compatible when GSM becomes available in Tello?
Jaustin,
As soon as the GSM service is available on Tello, you will be able to check the device compatibility of your phone with the new network directly on our website. It’s the only way to know for sure, thanks!
Well, this isn’t the answer I wanted to hear. It’s bad enough I have to replace the phones on my account and now I have to spend money on new phones and then pray they work with the new network. The phones for sale on here are more than I’m willing to spend.
So I’ve heard Sprint SIMs are gone and Tello seems to be in some sort of limbo right now.
Any updates as to this information and when the migration will begin?
Drako,
I’m not sure who’s spreading these rumours (but they’ll definitely go on the naughty list), so thanks a lot for passing the ball to us.
At Tello, it’s business as usual. Since the GSM network is not live yet, our CDMA SIMs are still available for people in need and can be ordered from us.
All this limbo talk and going through one side to another (CDMA to GSM) makes me think of the “Chilling Adventures of Sabrina” – sorry, but Netflix saved 2020 for me. All jokes aside, there’s nothing dark going on at Tello, just a lot of work to make the migration happen as soon as possible and learning as we go. Of course, one of the biggest lessons was that sometimes, no matter how well you plan things, some things are just not up to you.
Sorry I have no updated ETA and thanks for all the patience.
I received a Sprint (CDMA) SIM around mid- December, and I’m happy to say that everything is peachy with my unlocked Moto G7 power, purchased from a nearby bigbox.
I’m fairly sure that it’ll survive the Great Migration, but as we’ve been told, “As soon as the GSM service is available on Tello, you will be able to check the device compatibility of your phone with the new network directly on our website. It’s the only way to know for sure…”.
I only use my phone to talk!
Sometimes I receive a text from my grandchildren.
I don’t care about “speeds”, do I have to have a 5G phone?
Will a 4G phone still work?
My son told me I should get “dual SIM”, iPhone 6 or newer…
I couldn’t bring my old Samsung Galaxy AT&T phone to Tello because it’s GSM, will I be able to activate it now?
Could someone answer these questions.
P.S. I wish you would separate it into the 3 catagories:
If you use your phone to talk…
If you use your phone to text…
If you use your phone online…
Us older folks like things simple!
AJ,
You’re one of kind, thanks for taking the time to write us.
A lot of Tello customers are exactly like you, they want things to be simple and straight up.
When our GSM service will be enabled, please check your device and see if it’s a good fit. After that, you can totally pick a talk & text only phone plan from us for as little as $5/month.
I’ll keep in mind your suggestions regarding how to best organize our articles, from now on, thanks a lot!
May you have a blessed and joyful Christmas!
Hello Maria,
Is Tello still expecting to have the GSM service available before the end of the year? thank you!
Hello, Nini,
To be honest, making this happen was on the very top of our dream column for 2020.
For now, I can tell you that we are currently in the last phase of testing. While it takes longer than expected, we’re really doing everything we can to ensure a smooth transition and experience for each and every one of our customers.
While I can’t provide a date, please know that when everything is live, you’ll be notified and you’ll see the changes on our site.
Thanks for the patience!
Happy Holidays,
Maria
Circling the merry-go-round on converting a Tello-purchased phone to GSM use:
13 months ago I purchased a like-new LG Stylo 3 refurb from Tello. It was still apparently locked to the Sprint network (even though the model can be unlocked for GSM use).
It worked fine until one of our kids went to college in a Sprint dead zone. We had to port that phone’s number over to an unlocked Stylo running with a GSM provider so we would have signal when traveling to that area.
Our original Stylo 3 sits unused. Knowing CDMA is soon to be a dead end, we have been trying to get it unlocked for GSM use. I have talked to everyone at least once:
LG (the OEM) says the original network provider (Sprint) are the only ones with the network unlock capability.
SPRINT says they can’t do anything once it is not directly connected as a Sprint phone.
TELLO (who sold it to me) says they can’t do any unlocking at all
THIRD-PARTY unlocking services say the most recent firmware versions on the Stylo 3 prevents their factory unlock software from working.
And (apparently) relevant REGULATIONS are supposed to say that providers must unlock phones when asked (if no longer under contractual obligation).
So TELLO, how about working with SPRINT to get the unlocking process available to your customers who recently bought locked GSM-capable devices from you?
Brian,
Thanks for the message.
I’m so sorry for all the circling around you had to do. I feel you, the real of telecom is no stroll in the park.
Sadly, I can’t be of much help either, if my colleagues already talked to you regarding this matter, there’s not much more I can do.
However, in Tello’s Customer Support Team I trust, so if it were me, I’d give them another ring to see if they can shed some light on the situation.
May you have a blessed & joyful Christmas, thanks!
Well, contacting Tello customer service yielded only a patently incorrect reply:
“Thank you for choosing Tello. Please note that as mentioned previously, the phones that we sell we cannot guarantee that they will work with a different network such as a GSM one other than CDMA and the phones that we sell or they are activated with our service are not being locked.
Please keep in mind that certain phones including this one the LG Stylo 3 are designed to work on only one of the networks, GSM or CDMA, which might be the case here.”
To which I replied that if Tello cannot work with Sprint to help secure unlocking for devices that Tello sold, that will be a signal that it’s time to consider moving our 5 lines to another GSM MVNO (especially given what is currently a poor T-Mobile signal in our area).
Hi, Maria. I see they keep you very busy on here with questions. Mine is much like that of my son, Drako. I can’t seem to pass the compatibility stage with one of my phones, and I don’t understand why. It’s currently active with Verizon, as are my others I wish to bring over, but it is the only incompatible one. Are you able to either verify incompatibility or help me find the issue?
Lucius,
Thanks for your message and question. I must confess it’s great feeling like Hermione when I have all the answers for you guys.
Unfortunately, this will not be one of those brilliant moments of wisdom, since I can’t help you directly, but please pass the question on to my colleagues at Customer Support. They know more about Device Transfiguration, Compatibility Potions and Mobile Muggle Chemistry.
Let me know how it goes, thanks!
Wait a tick, I don’t recall anyone else utilizing this surname, nor do I have a father and my mother goes by a different name entirely.
I need to know if these phones will work with the switchover. Released on Sept. 2019. They are brand new sealed Motorola XT-2010-1 US version unlocked. If i type the IMEI number in, it says they a will not work on Tello. I have not opened the boxes and i will need to sell if they are not going to be able to work on the new tello network.
Bands are: Network Technology
GSM / HSPA / LTE
2G bands GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 – SIM 1 & SIM 2 (dual-SIM model only)
3G bands HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100
4G bands 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 17, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41, 66
Speed HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE-A (2CA) Cat12 600/100 Mbps
While they are not CDMA phones, which is what Tello’s current parent network uses as its legacy and base network. So the phones are not compatible with Tello.
As it stands, Tello devices need to be compatible with Sprint’s network to be able to be activated with the eventual compatibility of T-Mobile’s network to be able to be migrated to the new network.
While the T-Mobile IMEI checker will not be the end all answer to if the phones will work, it is currently the best means of checking for possible compatibility.
Dear Bob,
My friend Drako is right, until we have the GSM IMEI checker up and running, there’s no way to know for sure.
The device has the right bands, but from what I see, it’s not clear if it’s a VoLTE phone, so that might be an issue.
Unfortunately, we’ll have to wait and see, thanks and Happy Holidays!
Well, we were told by the years end. We need updates on this conversion and when the new cards will be sent out. I know the phones are not compatable with the current tello, i bought them because we were told we needed gsm phones which they are. I’m pretty sure the android update to 10 will turn on volte and wifi calling as was said on the motorola forums. Really need to know what is going on here as you will be losing customers. There is no response on your twitter account either.
Hi, Bob,
Thanks for writing. I do understand your concern, it’s legitimate.
I come with some updates, as follows:
• We’re currently working on releasing the GSM network and we intend on doing this in the first quarter of 2021
• Customers will have the option to migrate to the GSM network once we are live – it will be publicly announced when we start the migration process and new SIMs available, so please stay tuned
• We plan on migrating all existing customers to the new GSM network by the end of 2021 – throughout 2021, all customers will receive notifications and will be invited to migrate to the GSM network (nobody will be left out, promise)
Please trust that we are as eager as you are to see this happen, but we’re taking our time to ensure that everything goes as pain-free as possible for each of our customers.
Your patience and constant support are highly appreciated, we’re sending our best wishes for the upcoming year!
Thanks!
“Based on internal documents from T-Mobile given to Android Police, some older devices, including the OnePlus One, Xperia Z3 series, and Nexus 9, will be unable to connect to the company’s network beginning on January 29th. 19 devices, including phones, tablets, and even cameras, are named by the document. Affected customers will be notified by SMS beginning on December 28th, and will be able to upgrade to one of four phones for free.” https://www.androidpolice.com/2020/12/24/these-are-all-the-devices-t-mobile-says-will-stop-working-on-its-network-next-month/
So a letter has been shared on Howard Forums that was sent to a Sprint Business Customer from T-Mobile Business.
The letter puts the final nail in the coffin for Sprint CDMA to be completely offline by 1/1/2022.
They also added “Between now and the time Sprint CDMA is fully decommissioned, capacity and coverage of the Sprint CDMA network is expected to change.”
This means they are ramping up the shut down of Sprint’s network and am wondering how this will affect us Tello customers and if there’s any updates regarding the migration to the new network. Will ROAMAHOME extend to Tello customers until we get new SIMs?
The thread is here:
https://howardforums.com/showthread.php/1921512-T-Mobile-CDMA-Network-Shutdown-01-01-22
Drako, thanks for sharing this thread, this blog would be so much less interesting if it weren’t for people like you!
Here are some answers Tello can provide at this point:
• We’re currently working on releasing the GSM network and we intend on doing this in Q1 of 2021
• Customers will have the option to migrate to the GSM network once we are live – it will be publicly announced when we start the migration process, so please stay with us for more :)
• We plan on migrating all existing customers to the new GSM network by the end of 2021 – throughout 2021, all customers will receive notifications and will be invited to migrate to the GSM network (nobody will be left out, promise)
• Tello CDMA customers will not benefit from the ROAMAHOME feature, but they should get the same service as they do now until they are migrated to the GSM network
Hope that sheds a bit of light on the migration status.
Please trust that we are as eager as all of you to see this happen sooner, but our main concern is to make it as smoothly as possible for each of our customers.
Your patience and constant support are highly appreciated, we’re sending all our love!
Thanks!
Hullo Maria, only a few days left in the year.
Are there any updates that you can share with us, if I’m going to buy a new phone, I’d prefer to buy it this year, lots of sales right now.
I currently have an unlocked Moto G6 Play which seems to be questionable as to whether it will work on the new network
Hi, Alison,
Thanks for the question. Boy, am I glad to say goodbye to 2020, aren’t you?
In regards to the Moto G6, as far as we know it should work, depending on the model. If it’s a newer model with VoLTE and the mentioned bands, it should be fine. Hope this helps!
May we all have a better year, and face anything that comes with kindness and an open heart!
Happy New Year,
Looks like 2020 is leaking into 2021.
Is there an update on the availability of the GSM network?
I just tried my Galaxy S9 phone in an area where only GSM is available and it is still not working.
Thanks
HAPPY NEW YEAR, Arno!
I hope we’ve closed the door on 2020 for good, yet some things are still in progress, like healing, learning, doing better. Oh, yeah, and GSM on Tello :).
As I said in a previous reply in the last days of 2020, we’re currently working on releasing the GSM network and we intend on doing this in the first quarter of 2021. That’s the reason why your phone is not working, our GSM service is not live yet.
We’re super eager to see this happen asap and our customers will be the first ones to get the good news.
Thanks for all the patience and support!
Hi
I have a question. We have 2 numbers for almost 15 years and wish we could keep our numbers. Is that possible with Tello?
Thank you
Hello,
Thanks for your question.
Yes, you can totally keep the phone numbers you love when switching to Tello. I’m super attached to mine, as well, had it for 17 years myself:).
Have a good day, Thanks!
Hi. Any updates on the T-mobile merger and transition for Tello users?
Mike, GSM is now LIVE on our site, please take a look, thanks!
When will Tello switch to GSM? Is this available now for new customers or is it still in the works?
Chris, GSM is live on tello.com! Check it out & enjoy GSM :D!
Hi Maria,
I am new to Tello. When Tello GSM goes live, I will be buying a new GSM capable phone to replace my current CDMA flip phone. Can I call customer support to help me swith all my info
to my new phone? I am a senior and am not particularly tech savvy.
Thanks
Hi, Jesse,
Thanks so much for writing. Since you’re following Tello’s blog and took the time to reach out to us, I think you’re doing just fine, tech-wise :D.
Absolutely, you can contact Tello’s Customer Support anytime and talk to a real person that will assist you with everything you need.
One more thing Jesse: GSM is live as of today!
Thanks a bunch and stay safe!
Will an unlocked iPhone 12 Max work on the GSM network?
Peter, pretty solid chances for your device, but to know for sure, please have it checked here: https://tello.com/bring_your_own_phone. Have a great day & fingers crossed! Thanks!
Question regarding the functionality once the switch to GSM is made. With the Sprint/CDMA system, we were able to block unwanted text messages from random numbers by texting ‘block [number]’ to 9999 and thus save the $0.01 charge on the Pay As You Go Credit each time these unwanted, spam messages would be sent by bad people. Will we be able to do the same (block specific numbers) once on the GSM system? Or maybe it will be the same? I don’t know if T-Mobile will carry over the Sprint 9999 number to send to in order block. I know we block ALL text messages via logging into our account and selecting that option on the web page, but blocking all is not an enticing solution. We need to be able to block just these spam people while still being able to text those numbers we want. I also know iOS (and assume Android OS) have the ability to block numbers, however that block is done locally on the phone, so, while not disturbed by the unwanted number, we still get charged $0.01 for the text message. What’s worse with that is since it is blocked by the phone, we do not know to block it otherwise and can continue to get unwanted message and charged $0.01 on your balance each time without realizing it until checking usage and balance.
So I asking if we’ll be able to block specific numbers by sending ‘block [number]’ to 9999 ? Will our previously blocked numbers be carried over to GSM?
Also, with Sprint/CDMA, we are able to check our Voice Mail on a different line (again saving Pay As You Go Credit charges) by calling our number and when the leave a message recording comes, type ‘*’ and our voice mail passcode. Will we be able to continue to do this once switching to the GSM system?
Thank you – sorry if the post if long, I just wanted to try to be clear in order to get clear answers to my two questions.
T-Mobile has a very bad coverage here. That means I will have to migrate when the time has come.
Cell data does NOT need to be enabled for a VOLTE call to work, correct? Will a VOLTE call be charged as data? or by the minute? It is my understanding that a VOLTE call would use around 4MB per hour. On my Pay as You Go plan that would cost 8 cents if charged as data or 60 cents if charged by the minute.
Hello, Ron,
Here’s the thing: VOLTE is automatic, so it does not need data to work.VOLTE call is charged from the minutes only, but uses the Data channels as well. Hope this helps, thanks!
I currently use Tello as it has CDMA coverage where there is no other coverage. That is, there is no GSM coverage in the area I need it. If CDMA is shutdown, will the GSM network expand to cover the lost area? Or will I have no coverage and have to find a different network?
Ed, one thing I can tell you is that our GSM network is committed to becoming the best there is. This being said, coverage is improving daily, but there’s no way to know for sure how things will look like months from now. So, my advice is to keep your fingers crossed and keep checking our updated coverage. Thanks!
My son’s phone on Tello can’t make or receive voice calls. Texts and data work ok. Everything was working good until Jan 27, 2021. C/S folks haven’t been able to come up with anything. Went through the activation list they emailed. Do you have an idea what would cause this? Samsung J3 with the CDMA service.
Hello and thanks for writing!
I’m afraid I have bad news for your son’s phone. The J3 is not compatible with our new GSM service and although we are going to support CDMA until the end of 2021, I think looking for a device upgrade might be a good idea. If my CS counterparts couldn’t come up with anything else, there’s not much we can do, sorry. Have a great day!
Got him transferred to a Tmo phone. A little kink on the website where the browser inserted the email address into the box for the zip code. By the next day acct. credits got transferred and everything worked.
Got 10mb/sec data, much better than it was on Sprint. Only took 3 calls to tech support.
Hi Maria, I have successfully activated the new GSM SIM on my Moto E4 XT1768.
Most services are working: SMS, MMS and data.
However, phone calls always use the 3G network (even when LTE is on). Is this a know issue? I have followed all the troubleshooting steps I was given by customer service, but the situation has not changed.
The Phone info menu shows “VoLTE provisioned” as ON and I have selected “Enhanced 4G LTE Mode” in the “Cellular network settings”.
Could this been an issue with the APN setting? The APNs I see are
T-Mobile US 240 DUN
T-Mobile US 240 LTE
Hi Edoardo,
I’ve checked with our support team and it sounds like they were able to help you work it out. I’m really glad to hear that!
Hello, I am thinking about getting tello for my brother. Will his Iphone 7 be compatible with the new service?
Hi, Justin, you’re such a good brother, glad to hear you’re considering us.
The only way to know for sure if the phone is compatible is to check it on our site, by entering the IMEI here: https://tello.com/bring_your_own_phone. Let me know how it goes, fingers crossed!
Until Tello comes to an agreement with Apple. iPhones may or may not get all features. So, far Tello has confirmed MMS and other advanced features like VoLTE do not work. But you may not get LTE either.
Calls and Texts will work though on 3G.
VoLTE may be automatic, but it DOES NOT INCLUDE HD VOICE, per Tello Customer Service (at least that’s what I was told). VERY DISAPPOINTING! HD Voice calls were a main reason for my holding out for the GSM switch.
This will be my one year with Tello. I finally bought another phone after 7 years. I am sad that I might have to get a new one in a little bit since mine seems to not be compatible. I hope Tello will provide at least an $80 credit towards another more expensive phone to keep up with technology.
I have not heard good things about T-Mobile. Customer service is not highly rated. Is this really going to be a merger?
Lindsey, the merger already happened and Tello is now on GSM, but all this is gooood news for Tello customers :D! We’re super excited that we can offer better services, on a super stable network with faster data speeds!
Our plan prices, customer service and all the perks for which people love us – stay EXACTLY the same.
Please read more about this here: https://blog.tello.com/news/new-gsm-network-same-unbeatable-plans/ – and for any more questions, I’m here!
I escaped a bad relationship with T-Mobile when I switched to Tello. Now they are back, ruining my phone service. My Moto android phone will work on GSM but my wife’s flip-phone will not. It’s difficult to find a cheap reliable flip-phone now and she does not want a smart phone. All it is for is to occasionally talk for a minute. Zero data and zero texts. It would be nice if Tello would offer a really cheap one. A flip-phone should not be over $20. Tello, are you listening?
Yes, we’re here! We’re always watching – just kidding.
We are planning on bringing more devices to our site and hopefully, everybody will have something to look forward to. Thanks for the suggestions, good day!
Now you say that GSM is live but I have not received any notice nor did I get a new SIM card. Will these be sent out to existing customers or do I have to request one myself. I assumed this would happen automatically
When are we going to receive our free GSM Tello sim card upgrade? Seems like you should do it gradually so your customer service isn’t overwhelmed.
Yes, Curtis, you’re spot on, that’s the plan: we want to do things gradually since we are keen on making the transition a smooth process for each and every one of our customers. If, however, you want to speed things up, you can order a SIM from us and after you activate it, you’ll be on GSM. Our support team is ready for your questions, if needed, anytime. thanks!
QUESTION: I’ve been with Tello for awhile and my phone is so old it’s probably not GSM compatible. I need to know if I purchased a compatible phone from you will my account be automatically transitioned to T-Moble GSM or as an existing Tello customer, will I need to wait for the mid 2021 roll-out?
Hi, Mike,
If you have an eye on a GSM & VoLTE device from us or even from another store, there’s no need to wait, you can bring it to Tello by completing this process here – https://tello.com/bring_your_own_phone – and switch to GSM. Thanks!
How long will I still be able to be on CDMA for 2G/3G service with Tello? Where I live, GSM is still not a reasonable choice for me, but I want to stay with Tello as long as I can while on a CDMA network. Thank you!
Hi, Ryan, unfortunately, I can’t provide an ETA. So sorry that GSM will not work for you!
CDMA is still here, and we’ll let you know when things will change so there’s no risk of remaining without service, thanks!
I guess I am going to have to upgrade to the Tmobile SIM for my Tello account.
Please let me know easiest way to get it, through you or c/s.
It takes 4 rings for Google Voice to ring the Tello phone. Not sure if Sprint is dying in my area or what is going on.
Hey, Don,
Good luck with the transition :). Please note that you need a new GSM directly from us. If you already have it, and need help, feel free to call my Customer Support colleagues and they’ll gladly assist you! Thanks!
I used to have CDMA coverage at my house and could receive and make calls from home. Approximately 4 weeks ago my coverage disappeared. I have 0 coverage. I tried the “Test Drive” from T-Mobile and can at least get coverage in the top of my barn … better than nothing! How do I get my GSM SIM now? You left me in a very bad spot.
Bonnie, so sorry you’re in this situation.
The best people to offer you advice on this are my Customer Support mates, so please give them a call.
Fingers crossed, thanks for reaching out!
I’m upgrading from an iPhone 5s to a iPhone 6s. All I need to do is move the SIM card from the old phone to the new one, yes? Thanks!
Hi Mike, that should be enough. Yes!
Here’s one for your technical gurus: Moto E4. Good condition, no cracks, dents or other evidence of dropping, etc.
I have gone through the ringing, do not disturb and time out settings. Can’t find any setting picks for deep sleep or wake up issues.
With Tello SIM: Phone display on, rings, all OK. On standby < 30 minutes, rings.
After 1 hour or so when phone goes to sleep it won't ring.
Installed the Tello SIM into a Moto G5 and a Samsung J7. Works perfectly.
Installed a Tmobile SIM, works perfectly, phone wakes right up when called a day later.