How to Flash a Droid to MetroPCS

Flash your Droid instead of adding it to your stack of unused phones.

You don't have to throw your Droid away if you want to switch from your current mobile carrier to MetroPCS. Instead, flash it over to the new network in just a few minutes. Flashing reprograms the Droid to connect to MetroPCS's network of cell towers instead of your existing carrier. Although the Droid line of phones was created for Verizon Wireless initially, you can safely flash your Droid to MetroPCS by using software purchased online.

Things You'll Need

• Email account
• USB cable
• Flashing software

Instructions

1. Download flashing software from an online retailer such as Remote Squad, CDMA Flashing Software or Your Cellular. The price varies by retailer but range from $24.95 to to $34.99 as of January, 2012. Check your email for a link from the retailer with software download instructions.

2. Call MetroPCS or visit a MetroPCS store to open a new account. Take your phone with you to give them the identification information, or check under your battery for the information if you decide to call to set up the account.

3. Connect your phone to your computer using the USB cable. Open and run the flashing software and then follow its instructions. You may have to use drop-down menus to choose your phone model, existing carrier and MetroPCS as the new carrier and then allow the software to finish the reprogramming. Some software may require you to go to your computer's "Start" menu and search for "Device Manager" and then scroll down to the com ports list. Choose "Com Port 1" for your phone if necessary. The software should automatically complete the flashing, but it may ask your for a service program code, or SPC, which should always be "000000."

4. Disconnect your phone and reboot it. Make a test call to "611" to make sure you are now reaching MetroPCS customer service instead of your previous carrier.

Tips & Warnings

• As of January, 2012, MetroPCS's MetroFLASH service doesn't support flashing Droid phones. However, many third-party retailers can help. Just take your Droid to a retailer that sells MetroPCS service as well as service from other providers and ask them to flash your phone while your wait.

• Always back up your phone's data, such as calendar and contacts, before flashing.

References

• MetroPCS: MetroFlash
• Verizon: Motorola Droid RAZR
• Remote Squad: Flash Motorola
• CDMA Flashing Software: Full Flashing Solutions
• Your Cellular: Keep Your Handset, Change Your Carrier

Resources

• Computer Hope: How Do I Get Into Windows Device Manager?
• Phone Scoop: CDMA