A reminder that not all mobile phones are created equal.
A member wrote to us recently about his experience in changing his mobile provider. What he hadn't realised, and wasn't explained to him by his new company, was that his old phone didn't have a SIM card.
SIM cards contain all of your phone's information such as its number and network settings. So you can transfer your SIM from one phone to another and keep your details … usually. Some phones can't be used on certain networks and some older phones don't have SIM cards at all.
So don't get caught out. If you’re changing networks or simply changing phones on the same network, always check with your provider that your new phone will be compatible with your old SIM card or whether you'll need a new SIM.
More information
- Mobile phones - our test results, recommendations and buying advice
- Apple vs Android - we compared the Apple iPhone 4 and Motorola Milestone
Member Comments
Got a question or comment on this topic? Share your views and experiences with other Consumer members...
To add a comment you need to be a member of consumer.org.nz. Login or Join.
Read what our members have to say close
To save money on essentials and make buying decisions easy, you can't go past Consumer. We're proud to have over 65,000 members all enjoying our independent information online or in Consumer magazine.
Here's what some of them say...
"Just wanted to let you know that I find your site excellent! Easy to find my way around, everything at my fingertips - just a click away.
I only took out a 3 month membership as I wasn't sure but it is actually really easy to use and if I want it on paper I can print the
reports. Thanks again".
Denise Watkinson - Waitakere
"My mother (74) got a renewal letter from her insurance company for her car insurance, wanting $570. After reading
your article on car insurance, I contacted one of the companies you recommended, who quoted her $318 for the same
level of cover. I just wanted to stay thank you very much for your article, as it has saved my mother a substantial amount of money".
Adrian Lane - Kapiti Coast
"I've been a member to the magazine since 1997 and enjoy reading it a lot. I've found lots of helpful information on different issues...
Thank you for being so helpful".
Peter Kovalenko - Porirua
"I have been a member of the Consumer NZ for 20 or more years and have enjoyed much reliable advice.
I turn to their tests before making significant purchases".
Lyndal Print – Auckland
Join Consumer now and make your decisions easy on a huge range of products and services
- Over 500 reports, plus interactive tools and calculators
- Independent advice from NZ's trusted source of information
- Join over 65,000 members who help us get all NZers a fairer deal
from just $28
As the new provider was not going to supply a new handset then would it not be a good question to ask "Can I use my existing phone?"
I think there's at least two different form-factors for SIM cards too - the iPhone 4 uses a micro-SIM, but apparently you can cut down a larger one with a pocket knife and a steady hand...