To flash a cell phone is to install programming for a code division multiple access (CDMA) network onto the handset. Normally a cell phone comes with the programming already on it. If you want to switch to another CDMA network, you have to have the cell phone flashed. Most CDMA mobile carriers provide this service for you in their stores.
Instructions
1. Contact your future CDMA mobile carrier to verify that they support the use of your cell phone on their network.
2. Back up the important information from your cell phone to avoid losing it when the flashing software reprograms it. Use the method that is most efficient for your cell phone brand and model. Just write down all of the important phone numbers if you don't currently use a backup system for your cell phone.
3. Take your cell phone into your CDMA mobile carrier's store location if they have the flashing software available. Ask for their recommendations for local retailers that offer cell phone flashing services if they do not. Pay any fees associated with flashing the cell phone.
4. Have the customer service representatives from your new CDMA mobile carrier activate your cell phone on the network. Pay any fees associated with activating the cell phone and setting up a new account.
5. Restore the information that you backed up in Step 2 to your handset using the recommended method. If you simply wrote down the important phone numbers from your phone, manually input them back into the handset.
6. Call your old CDMA mobile carrier to cancel your service contract. Pay any fees associated with canceling.
Tags: cell phone, your cell, your cell phone, CDMA mobile, CDMA mobile carrier