How do I activate my mobile phone or tablet with Xfinity Mobile and NOW Mobile? (Answered)

***Updated 6/1/2026***

Bringing your own device or getting a new one? Activation is easy with the Xfinity app. Activation times vary. It usually takes about 10 minutes.

• If you’re new to Xfinity Mobile, set up a line.
• Already have Xfinity Mobile and need to add a new line? See how to add a line to your Xfinity Mobile account.
• Need help with using quick transfer? See how to use quick transfer to activate your device with Xfinity Mobile or NOW Mobile.

Before you start:

• Connect your device to WiFi.
• Make sure it’s fully charged or plugged in.
• Update to the latest software.
• Save important things, like voicemails, photos, and files.
• Have your previous account number and PIN handy if you’re transferring your number.
• Have your Xfinity ID and password ready.
  
  • A Primary or Manager Xfinity ID can activate any device on the account. Members can activate a device linked to their line.

Get started in the Xfinity app

If you are looking for help with using Quick Transfer from one device to another, see how to use Quick Transfer to activate your device with Xfinity Mobile or NOW Mobile.

Activating a device on a new line

1. After following the steps above to Get started in the Xfinity app, tap Start Activation.
2. If you are transferring your number from a previous provider, tap Keep and transfer phone number. If not, tap Get a new number.
   
   • Keep and transfer phone number:
     
     • Enter the account holder’s name and your mobile details.
     • You will also need the account number and PIN, and the billing details for the account you are transferring from.
     • Xfinity will tell you once the number transfer is done.
   • Get a new number:
     
     • Xfinity will give you a number automatically.
     • Write your number down before continuing.
   • After making your choice, you are ready to activate your SIM.
   • The app will let you know if you need to follow eSIM or pSIM activation steps to finish the set up.

Links:

• Where can I find the account information from my previous service provider? 
  
  • If you need to port your number later, follow the steps in keeping a current phone number with Xfinity Mobile or NOW Mobile.
• Need to add a new line? See how to add a line to your Xfinity Mobile account.
• If you are looking for help with using Quick Transfer from one device to another, see how to use Quick Transfer to activate your device with Xfinity Mobile or NOW Mobile.

Activating a device on an existing line

1. After following the steps above to Get started in the Xfinity app, tap Start Activation.
2. You need a one-time passcode sent to an email address on file or the phone number linked to the device or SIM being replaced. Select Send Code.
3. Enter the one-time passcode. Then, tap Confirm Code.
4. The Xfinity app tells you when your number was successfully activated.
5. You will be asked to confirm your identity before setting up your device. You can choose one of two ways:
   • Tap a notification in the Xfinity app.
   • Enter a code sent through email or text.
6. Once confirmed, find out if you need to follow eSIM or pSIM activation steps to finish the process.

Links:

• Are you looking for steps to add a new device to your existing line? See how to replace the device on an existing line.
• If you are looking for help with using Quick Transfer from one device to another, see how to use Quick Transfer to activate your device with Xfinity Mobile or NOW Mobile.

Adding your eSIM to the network

After completing verification, your device is ready to be added to the Xfinity Mobile or NOW Mobile network. You will get a notification inviting you to set up your eSIM.

1. Tap this notification. Then, select Set up eSIM.
2. Follow the cellular plan’s installation steps on the screen.
3. Once complete, you'll get a "Cellular Setup Complete" message to confirm eSIM setup was successful.
   
   • This means you're now on the Xfinity Mobile network.
4. Your device’s operating system also tells you once Xfinity Mobile is added.
5. In the Xfinity app, confirm you have cellular bars at the top of the device.
   
   • Select Yes, I have cellular service bars. Then, tap Continue.
6. If you are swapping your eSIM, you will be asked to confirm your identity before setting up your device. You can choose one of two ways:
   • Tap a notification in the Xfinity app.
   • Enter a code sent through email or text.
7. Xfinity Mobile or NOW Mobile then activates the service and confirms the new device is on the network.

Adding your pSIM to the network

After completing verification, your device is ready to be added to the Xfinity Mobile or NOW Mobile network.

1. Follow the prompts in the Xfinity app. These show you how to successfully install the physical card into your device.
   
   • The pSIM may already be installed in your device.
2. Once the pSIM is successfully installed, select The SIM is inserted.
3. Confirm you have cellular bars at the top of the device. Xfinity Mobile should now show as your listed provider.
4. If you do, within the Xfinity app, verify your cellular service.
   
   • Select Yes, I have cellular service bars. Then, tap Continue.
5. If you are swapping your pSIM, you will be asked to confirm your identity before setting up your device. You can choose one of two ways:
   • Tap a notification in the Xfinity app.
   • Enter a code sent through email or text.
6. Xfinity Mobile or NOW Mobile then activates the service and confirms the new device is on the network.

What should I do if the eSIM doesn’t automatically download?

QR code:

If for any reason the eSIM doesn't automatically download, scan the QR code below, and follow the prompts.

Manually enter a URL:

If you still can’t download and install the eSIM, you can also enter a URL (website address) in your device to download the eSIM. Follow the steps below for your device: