This post may contain affiliate links. If you use these links to buy something we may earn a small commission. Thanks.
AT&T is a leading wireless carrier here in the US, with over 180 million subscribers as of 2020. It does have amazing cell phone data plans that will make you want to stick around, albeit they get cheaper as you add more lines. Even better, you can get a free phone when you switch to AT&T service, upgrade your line, or continue with your Unlimited plan.
Like last year, around October, you could get the iPhone 12, which Apple has just released then, at $0. The smartphone deal was available to all customers, though you had to provide a trade-in worth at least $95.
What’s the Best Free Phone When you switch to AT&T?
In truth, AT&T has most of the phone deals on capped discounts at the moment. The Free, or otherwise $0 phone offers were only four at the time of writing, but we’ll be updating the list as they come and go.
Regardless, all the phones on these deals are decent and the latest models you’ll want to have. They include:
Things to Know About the Free Phone When You Switch to AT&T Deals
First, the four free phone deals are not only limited to the new customer who switches to AT&T. As an existing subscriber, you can as well qualify for the offer when you add a new line or upgrade your existing line to eligible plans. The said plans are the AT&T unlimited plans, starting the $75/mo. per line package, if you’re a new customer.
In addition to that, you’ll need to trade in an eligible smartphone valued at $95 or higher. Some of the Android smartphones eligible for the trade-in include OnePlus 7 Pro-Series/ 7T-Series/ 8-Series/, Motorola Moto Razr, Google Pixel 4/ 5-series, and Samsung A71/ S9/ S10/ Note Series. If you have iPhone 8 or higher, you can as well qualify for one of the latest selections.
Similar Article:
Please note, some of the other (discounted) phone deals necessarily don’t need a trade-in for you to qualify. So, you’ll only need to activate/ upgrade/ keep the unlimited wireless service.
Comparing The Features Of The Best Free Phone Deals With AT&T
| Cell Phone Brand | Full Retail Price | Release Year | Key Features |
| Apple iPhone 12 Mini | $699.99(Now $0) | November 2020 | iOS 1464GB Memory 12MP Dual Camera |
| Samsung Galaxy Z Flip3 5G | $999.99(Now $0) | August 2021 | Android 11128GB Memory 12MP Dual Camera |
| Apple iPhone XR 64GB | $499.99(Now $0) | October 2018 | iOS 1264GB Memory 12MP Single Camera |
| Microsoft Surface Duo 128GB | $699.99(Now $0) | September 2020 | Android 10128GB Memory 11MP Single Camera |
| Unite Express 2 Mobile Hotspot | $144.99(Get $0) | N/A | MDM 9240 processor512MB Memory Up to 15 devices |
| Samsung Galaxy Watch4 Series | $429.99(Now $0) | August 2021 | Android Wear OS16GB Memory Send and receive text |
| Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G | $249.99(Get $70 rebate) | June 2021 | Android 11128GB Memory 48MP Quad Camera |
| Apple iPhone 12 | $799.99(Get $700 rebate) | October 2020 | iOS 1464GB Memory 12MP Dual Camera |
| Apple iPhone 12 Pro 128GB | $999.99(Get $700 rebate) | October 2020 | iOS 14128GB Memory 12MP Triple Camera |
| Samsung Galaxy Note 20 Ultra 5G | $1,199.99(Get $700 rebate) | August 2020 | Android 11128GB Memory 108MP Triple Camera |
Here’s a summary review of the four free phones when you switch to AT&T
1. Apple iPhone 12 Mini 64GB
The iPhone 12 Mini is the first free phone when you switch to AT&T service, or else add a line to your existing account. Just as the name, the phone is a downgraded version of the original iPhone 12-Series, but not in a great way.
If it’s the performance, the Apple Mini has the iOS 14 and A14 Bionic chip, which is the fastest at the moment. Thus, allowing you to multitask without any chance of lags or draining your battery life fast.
Other amazing features with the iPhone 12 Mini include a 5G compatibility, vivid Doldy Vision HDR video recording, Face ID unlock, Apple pay, IP68 water resistance, amongst others.
How to get the free Apple iPhone 12 Mini
- Purchase the iPhone 12 Mini on the AT&T installment plan
- Activate/ upgrade/ keep your AT&T line on an Unlimited wireless plan
- Trade-in a qualified smartphone valued at least $95
- Receive your $700 rebate in bill credits
2. Samsung Galaxy Z Flip3 5G
First of all, the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip3 5G is yet to come out (expected around 27 August 2021). So, it’s currently on backorder, but could be yours for free if you satisfy the required requirements.
According to Samsung’s announcement, rumors, and leaks, the new smartphone will be an improvement of the previous 2020 release. Of course, some features like the display, camera, and storage have remained.
However, the Z Flip3 is slimmer by a few inches, more durable, and relatively more productive. It comes with Android 11 and running on the Snapdragon 888 5G instead of the previous -865 5G for a seamless, smoother gaming experience.
Other features worth a mention include compact design, IPX8 water resistance, Dolby stereo support, Super Slow-mo camera mode, and 5G connectivity.
How to get the free Samsung Galaxy Z Flip3
- Purchase the Galaxy z Flip3 on the AT&T installment plan
- Activate/ upgrade/ keep your AT&T line on an Unlimited wireless plan
- Trade-in a qualified smartphone valued at least $95
- Receive your $1000 rebate in bill credits
3. Apple iPhone XR 64GB
Although it has been on the market for a while, the iPhone XR is still a decent device to own. And the best part, it could be yours for free when you register a new account or add a line with AT&T.
The Apple device has a 6.1-inch display that you can enjoy your favorite games or TV shows in a vivid, cinematic experience on the go. Its single camera is also pretty stunning if you need to capture your outdoor scenes even in low-light conditions.
Furthermore, the iPhone XR does have Face ID unlock for faster access to your phone. Then, it has both M3 and T4 HAC ratings to ensure you can use a hearing aid without any compromise.
How to get the free Apple iPhone XR
- Purchase the iPhone XR on the AT&T installment agreement
- Activate/ upgrade/ keep your AT&T line on Unlimited plan
- Trade-in at least a $95-worth smartphone
- Receive your $700 rebate in bill credits
3. Microsoft Surface Duo 128GB
If you have always wanted to go bigger, this Microsoft Surface Duo deal could be yours at $0. Of course, the handset is not the most famous for its enormous size, but the rest includes everything you’d want to remain productive at twofold.
For instance, you can view two apps at the same time, whereby now you won’t need to constantly switch between apps. You can also set and operate the dual-screen display as a laptop if you need to make the most from your Microsoft office.
Another thing, the Surface Duo comes with 128GB built-in storage and 6GB RAM. So, it will be a long time before you start receiving alerts to clean your handset.
How to get the free Microsoft Surface Duo 128GB
- Purchase the Microsoft Surface Duo on the AT&T installment agreement
- Activate/ upgrade/ keep your AT&T line on Unlimited plan
- Trade-in a smartphone of value $95 or more
- Receive your $700 rebate in bill credits
4. Samsung Galaxy Watch4 Series
The Samsung Galaxy Watch4 is yet another innovation the tech giant will be releasing later this month. So, AT&T is only accepting only preorders.
The smartwatch is a perfect accessory for your Samsung smartphone and gentleman style as it can blend with almost any fashion. It has a modish-yet-stylish design, with a solid stainless steel case and a rotating bezel to switch between functions.
Thanks to the integrated 1.18GHz dual-core processor and 1.5 RAM, you can now operate various apps with minimal to no lags. More on that, the device has 16GB internal storage, which is pretty enough for the apps you use most, as well as to store music files.
Moreover, you can now receive and reply to texts or emails right from your wrist. The watch is also compatible with 4G LTE technology, including the HD voice feature. So, you’ll still have service after the 3G phases out in February 2023.
How to get a Free Samsung Galaxy Watch4 Series
- Purchase two Samsung Galaxy Watch4 watches on the AT&T installment agreement
- Add at least one new line on the watches
- Activate your wireless line on wearable & data plan (or your current AT&T plan)
- Receive your $430 rebate in bill credits
5. Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G
If you need a decent but simple smartphone that you use to Migrate to the 5G network, the Moto G Stylus 5G can do the trick. Although the regular price sits at $250, the phone has several of the features better than even some of its high-end counterparts.
For instance, Motorola designed this smartphone with 128GB built-in storage and also a slot you can put up to 1TB MicroSD card. So, storage should never be an issue, regardless of the files you want to keep.
Another thing, the Moto Stylus 5G has a 6.8-inch edge-to-edge display that you watch your movies in crisp full HD. The videos could be your favorite TV shows or from your personal recordings, courtesy of the installed 48MP quad-camera system.
Furthermore, the Motorola handset does support stylus function, 5G network, and contactless payments through NFC tag.
How to get a $70 discount on Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G
- Purchase the Moto G Stylus 5G on the AT&T installment agreement
- Activate/ upgrade/ keep your AT&T line on Unlimited plan
- Receive your $70 rebate in bill credits
Here are some FAQs for promotions offering a free cell phone when you switch to a new carrier:
What does it mean to get a free cell phone when I switch carriers?
Many mobile carriers offer promotional deals where you can get a free cell phone when you switch from another carrier. This is typically an incentive to attract new customers and encourage them to sign a service contract.
Which carriers offer free cell phones when you switch?
Major carriers such as AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile often have promotions offering free phones to new customers who switch. Check their websites or stores for the latest deals.
What are the requirements to qualify for a free phone when switching?
Generally, you need to port in an existing number, sign up for a specific service plan, and sometimes trade in an eligible device. Requirements vary by carrier, so it’s important to read the terms of the promotion.
Are the “free” phones really free?
While you might not pay upfront for the phone, the cost is often factored into your monthly service plan payments. Additionally, you might be required to stay with the carrier for a set period (like 24 or 30 months) to fully benefit from the deal.
Can I keep my current phone number when I switch carriers and get a free phone?
Yes, you can usually keep your existing phone number. You’ll need to request to port your number from your old carrier to the new one during the sign-up process.
What happens if I cancel my plan early after getting a free phone?
If you cancel your service before fulfilling the terms of your contract (e.g., the 24 or 30-month agreement), you may be required to pay the remaining balance of the phone’s retail price, and possibly additional fees.
Final Thoughts
Well, now might be the best chance to upgrade your AT&T phone while the provider has ongoing offers. The telecom giant is planning to shut down their 3G bands early next year, which will enable them to focus their resources on the new 5G (and 4G).
On the four free-phone-switcher deals that we’ve covered in the article, two of them are 5G capable if you meet the requirements. So, you could take advantage of the moment and use the rebated credits on something else.
As you apply for the free phone deal with AT&T, remember you’ll need $30 for the Line activation or upgrade. Also, the unlimited wireless service you purchase usually gives you unlimited talk minutes, texting, and data throughout the month. However, the carrier tends to temporarily slow down the data if the network gets congested (or too busy).