How to activate the TextNow SIM Card on your Android device

Don’t have an Android device?  Check out the iPhone activation guide instead.

You'll need a stable WiFi connection to complete activation.

The video above shows you how to activate your SIM on your Android phone. The steps are written out below if you would rather read through them instead.

Activate your SIM

  1. Scan the QR code to view TextNow on the Play store. If you see an update button, be sure to press it to ensure you have the most recent version of the app.

  2. Confirm which SIM card size you need for your phone.

  3. Use the provided SIM card popper to eject the SIM card tray from your phone.

  4. Most phones use the Nano SIM Card. Punch out the appropriate size carefully as shown, insert it into your SIM tray, and slide it back into your phone.

  5. Log into your TextNow account and your SIM should start activation automatically. You will be notified once activation is complete. This may take a few minutes. If you are upgrading your SIM card to our new network, activation will not start automatically. Instead, you can open the menu and tap the Activate your SIM Card button and follow the on screen instructions. Or, click this link on your mobile device.

  6. After activation, please restart your phone. After restarting, you can test your connection by turning off your wifi and placing a call or sending a text within the TextNow App.

Additional Troubleshooting

If your auto-activation failed, or you’re unable to connect to the network after activation, please view the following articles.

APN Settings ArticleHelp for Android OS 9-12

Need more help?

Visit the help center or contact our customer care team for more assistance

Visit Help CenterCustomer Care