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New GSM network, same unbeatable plans

Tello Before & After


What can Tello customers expect when we'll be switching to the new network?

CDMA Network
New GSM Network
Current customers
Until migration is completed
After migration
New customers
SIM card
existing CDMA SIM
new Tello GSM SIM
Compatible phones
CDMA
GSM VoLTE
Same affordable phones
No contract
Free hotspot
Family Plans
Human Customer Support

I’m already a Tello customer, what does this mean for me?

Nationwide Coverage
Improved coverage, faster data speeds, and a super-stable network with the SAME plans and pricing
No Ring Time Charges
Customers will be able to switch starting early 2021, they will receive notifications in My account and via email.
Any Device
Older CDMA phones will work up until at least mid-2021, and we will enable a gradual switch with lots of opportunities to change trains
New Phone
To best use the new GSM network, your phone needs to have, as minimum requirements LTE frequency bands 2, 4, 12 + VoLTE

Is my phone compatible with the new GSM network?

Dial *#06# on your phone and you'll receive your phone's IMEI code

Don't have the IMEI at hand? Check Tello requirements.

You can bring your own number after the service has been activated in your online account.

Also, see the coverage in your area


Check coverage

Frequently Asked Questions

  • If you are new to Tello, you'll need to open a free account, build your own plan or buy Pay As You Go credit. Next, you’ll need to decide if you want to bring your own phone into Tello or buy a new one. Once your service is activated you can start making calls, texting or surfing the web.
  • Existing customers will be prompted via email & account alerts when their line is ready to migrate.
    We recommend that you prepare for migration by checking your current device for GSM device compatibility and check your location for GSM coverage.
    If both of those pass the checks then all you will need to do is order the free Tello GSM SIM when prompted to do so in your online account.
  • Nothing will change, except for a better-improved coverage offered by the 5G GSM network. Your plan's price, balance, phone number, or billing date are in no way affected by the migration. You will be able to enjoy the same super affordable phone plans & great Tello service.
  • All Tello Phones are compatible with the new Tello GSM network.
    If you buy a phone from us it comes with a Tello GSM SIM so no need to buy a new one.
  • Your phone will still work on Tello if it's a GSM VoLTE compatible device. A big chunk of our customer base already have devices that will be compatible with the new GSM network. You can easily check if your phone is compatible by entering your phone's IMEI code here.
  • You need to have a GSM SIM card in order to access the Tello network, to be able to place, receive calls & texts. The GSM SIM needs to be placed in the slot of your GSM device. You can purchase a GSM SIM card directly from us.

Have more questions?

We've got answers!
Visit our Help Center
See what our customers have to say:
5 out of 5 ★
April 21
Out of service for four day...
I had been without phone service for 4 days. An employee who I spoke to at about 1030...

Out of service for four days

I had been without phone service for 4 days. An employee who I spoke to at about 1030PM Saturday night was able to talk me through getting my phone working again. He was knowledgeable and patient. I wish I had asked his name. But he is a great asset to Tello. I was at my wits end being unable to type in all the PUK codes I could and nothing worked. He was able to walk me through getting my phone working again. It was on an APPLE SE phone first generation. I have had it since it was new. And it still looks new as it has always been in a case. I did not want to give it up. But this Tello employee was the most helpful person I have ever come into contact with.
JOHN FINN
5 out of 5 ★
April 17
Holy mackerel!!
Holy mackerel!!! One of the best customer service/support I have ever experienced. S...

Holy mackerel!!

Holy mackerel!!! One of the best customer service/support I have ever experienced. Shaun F and the prior representatives were extremely helpful and patient, with an old guy like myself who has a lot of anxiety when it comes to "technology". I couldn't ask for more professionalism and care. Customer service was available 24/7 and again, each time was awesome. I cant say enough about Tello, I highly recommend their service.
James Carillo
5 out of 5 ★
April 09
Everything is made so easy!
Just added a second line for my elderly dad and it couldn't have been easier! Buying ...

Everything is made so easy!

Just added a second line for my elderly dad and it couldn't have been easier! Buying and activating an eSIM, porting over his old number and then deleting the old profile... all very intuitive and simple to do for his existing iPhone, with just a little guidance from the Tello help line folks. They are available 24/7 and there was a real human to speak to at every step if I needed, with very little waiting. They were patient, polite and a pleasure to work with <3 Thanks, Tello team, for making a daunting task so painless!
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