Hi there, why do i need to connect with a phone carrier when I am purchasing a new phone?
I am trying to buy a new phone since my current one is stolen in Mexico City, Mexico
iPhone 15 Pro Max
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The Apple Support Community will permanently close on November 20, 2026. Starting today, the site will no longer accept new posts and is available in a read-only state.
You can continue to find trusted guidance and support on the official Apple Support site.
We want to thank the community members who have contributed their time and expertise to help others with their Apple products.
I am trying to buy a new phone since my current one is stolen in Mexico City, Mexico
iPhone 15 Pro Max
Well, it is the carrier that allows your phone to connect to a cellular network, make and receive phone calls, send and receive messages, etc.
Most users consider these things to be an important function of a phone, but these things cannot happen until / unless you have set up service with a carrier.
Now, if you don't live in Mexico.....things can get complicated because most carriers require a 12 + month commitment to set up the phone. You don't want to have to pay a carrier for a year if you won't be using their service. On top of that, you won't be able to switch to another carrier until your current agreement expires.
Best to wait until you get back to your home country to buy a phone and set up service with a carrier.
Well, it is the carrier that allows your phone to connect to a cellular network, make and receive phone calls, send and receive messages, etc.
Most users consider these things to be an important function of a phone, but these things cannot happen until / unless you have set up service with a carrier.
Now, if you don't live in Mexico.....things can get complicated because most carriers require a 12 + month commitment to set up the phone. You don't want to have to pay a carrier for a year if you won't be using their service. On top of that, you won't be able to switch to another carrier until your current agreement expires.
Best to wait until you get back to your home country to buy a phone and set up service with a carrier.
My experience is that if you buy the phone directly from Apple, you do not have to specify a carrier.
But Bob Timmons is right. If you are not from Mexico, buying a phone there can complicate your life.
Hi there, why do i need to connect with a phone carrier when I am purchasing a new phone?