MetroPCS Now Lets You Use Unlocked GSM Phones | PCMag

MetroPCS Now Lets You Use Unlocked GSM Phones | PCMag

MetroPCS completed its merger with T-Mobile last month, but the two continue to operate as separate brands. Just this morning, however, MetroPCS quietly debuted its new Bring Your Own Phone program, which allows subscribers to use unlocked GSM phones on the carriers' combined networks.

You can now bring your unlocked GSM phones to receive MetroPCS service. This is significant because it marks the first time that MetroPCS, which was CDMA-only before the merger, is using T-Mobile's GSM network.

The carrier is accepting unlocked iPhones, Android phones, Windows phones, and certain feature phones, but not BlackBerrys, tablets, or hotspots. To find out if your phone is compatible, check here: metropcs.com/keepyourphone.

Right now MetroPCS is only offering this service to users in Boston, Dallas, Hartford, or Las Vegas, but plans to add more cities soon. If you choose to bring your own device, you can get the same unlimited, contract-free plans for $40, $50, or $60 per month that are available if you buy one.

MetroPCS Now Lets You Use Unlocked GSM Phones | PCMag

Once you've unlocked your phone, you must purchase a MetroPCS-branded SIM card in order to get your phone on the network. You can even port your old phone number from your previous carrier as long as you're free of any contractual obligations.

Sources have told us that MetroPCS will be adding two new GSM phones to its lineup as well. We aren't sure what they are, but rumors have pegged them as the Samsung Galaxy Exhibit and the LG Optimus L9. We've already reviewed the Optimus L9 on T-Mobile, which managed to nab a spot on our list of The Best Android Phones for its mix of price and performance. We haven't reviewed the Samsung Galaxy Exhibit yet, but it sort of looks to fall somewhere between the Samsung Galaxy S II and Galaxy S III, spec-wise.

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