To upgrade your Boost Mobile phone, you follow a two-part official flow: first shop for a new device, then activate it. This is the standard process for getting a new phone on your existing line, whether you want the latest features or just a better camera.
How to upgrade your Boost Mobile phone: The two-part official flow
The upgrade process starts on Boost Mobile's website or app. On the website, go to My Lines → Shop Upgrades. In the Boost Mobile app, tap View Details → Shop Phones. After you purchase your new phone, activation happens inside the same app. For activation, Boost says to open the Boost Mobile app and go to Settings → Device Setup → Manage under the correct line → Change Phone.
Prepare your current phone and data
Before you activate your new device, take a few minutes to get everything ready. These steps help ensure your data transfers smoothly and the activation completes without interruption.
- Back up your data. The setup process will prompt you to transfer apps, photos, and data, so having a backup protects your information.
- Connect your new phone to a stable Wi-Fi network. Software updates are large files that require a reliable connection.
- Charge your new phone to at least 50% battery before starting activation.
- Update the new phone's software. On Android, Boost's Android phone page says to have at least 50% battery and go to Settings → System → Software Update → Check for Updates. On iPhone, connect to Wi-Fi and update through the software update settings.
Check device compatibility
Your new phone must be compatible with Boost Mobile's network. Supported iPhone models for Boost eSIM are documented as all U.S. models iPhone 12 and newer. Boost Mobile's documented list of eSIM-compatible devices also includes selected Samsung Galaxy S22, S25, S26, Z Flip, Z Fold, and A-series models, selected Motorola razr and moto g models, Google Pixel 9a and Pixel 10 series, the Boost Celero5G TAB, and the TCL 50 XL NXTPAPER 5G and TCL K33 5G. If your phone isn't on this list, you may need a physical SIM card instead.
Activate your new iPhone
Follow these iPhone-specific steps to activate your new device on your existing Boost Mobile line.
- Turn on the new iPhone and connect to Wi-Fi.
- Update to the latest software.
- Follow the on-screen setup prompts to transfer apps, photos, and data.
- When you reach prompts about transferring cellular settings or setting up eSIM, select SKIP.
- This completes the cellular setup.
Activate your new Android phone
Android activation follows a similar path, with a few extra steps for phones not purchased from Boost.
- Download and sign in to the Boost Mobile app.
- In the app, tap Settings → Device Setup → Manage under the correct line → Change Phone.
- If your Android phone was not purchased from Boost, download the Boost Config App to update device settings. For Android phones not purchased from Boost, Boost says you must update device settings by downloading the Boost Config App.
If your old phone used a physical SIM card, Boost says to remove it and insert it into the new phone. If the original SIM is no longer available, Boost says to contact Customer Care or visit a Boost Mobile store.
Troubleshooting common upgrade issues
If activation stalls or the upgrade setup isn't completing, try these fallback steps. Restart your device and attempt the activation again. Ensure your phone has sufficient storage space for the update files. Clear cache and delete unnecessary files in your device's storage settings. If you're experiencing connectivity issues, reset your network settings (note that this removes saved Wi-Fi networks and Bluetooth connections). As a final fallback, visit boostmobile.com to complete the process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I upgrade my phone?
Yes, you can upgrade your Boost Mobile phone. Eligibility depends on your account status and any contract terms. Check your account in the Boost Mobile app or contact Customer Care to confirm you're eligible for an upgrade.
How often can I upgrade my Boost Mobile phone?
The frequency depends on your specific plan and payment agreement. Generally, you can upgrade after completing a minimum number of monthly payments or when you become eligible as per your contract. Check your account details for your upgrade date.
Can I keep my number when I upgrade?
Yes, you can keep your current phone number when upgrading. This is called number porting, and it happens automatically when you activate your new phone through the Boost Mobile app using the Change Phone option.
What if my old SIM card is missing?
If the physical SIM from your old phone is no longer available, you cannot simply insert it into the new phone. You need to contact Boost Mobile Customer Care or visit a Boost Mobile store to get a replacement SIM or switch to eSIM.
Does upgrading affect my Boost Mobile services?
Upgrading your phone does not change your Boost Mobile Plans, Payments and Account Services. Your plan, billing cycle, and account settings remain the same after activation. The only change is the device itself.
