Switching carriers and bringing my own device question

[rjack22]

I am currently a Verizon customer and I have a Galaxy S9 that I purchased from Verizon. I am seriously thinking of switching over to Consumer Cellular. I know my phone is compatible. But I am wondering if all features are compatible? I want to know if WiFi calling and the mobile hotspot will work on Consumer Cellular with my Verizon branded phone? Those features are available at Consumer Cellular, its just a question of whether my "Verizon phone" will allow it to work. Yes, my phone should be unlocked. I paid it off a year ago.

Does anyone know the answer to this?

If either of those features are not available then I will have to buy a new phone and for that I am thinking of buying a unlocked phone from Samsung rather that buying one from Consumer Cellular. Samsung would give me a good chunk of money right now on a trade-in.

 

[rjack22]

Yes, both features are available on their end but they can't guarantee they will work. Especially the WiFi calling feature. I was hoping someone here has done this and could shed some light on the issue.

 

[swebb]

AFAIK, they should work. AT&T is the only carrier that I've heard is finicky with byod features like that, mainly wifi calling. In any event, consider the trade-in if it's attractive. You'll get a new device that you know will work.

 

[Chuck Finley69]

Yes, both features are available on their end but they can't guarantee they will work. Especially the WiFi calling feature. I was hoping someone here has done this and could shed some light on the issue.

Let's clarify some things as facts. Only AT&T, VZW and TMO are the only actual three (3) nationwide USA carriers. Excluding the 2-3 tiny regional carriers, the various other retail brands are simply MVNOs, AKA resellers of the big three (3) carriers.

The big three (3) carriers, as of now, aren't required to allow Enhanced Calling Features on all devices whether purchased with them or not. That means even carrier locked purchased devices aren't guaranteed support by the carrier seller. The only carrier locked or factory unlocked devices guaranteed Enhanced Calling Features are those which the carriers simply choose to allow that feature compatibility access.

The carriers further segregate access by the same rules of network prioritization. Network prioritization access goes to carrier postpaid accounts first, then carrier prepaid accounts, with MVNO reseller accounts at the end of the line. Enhanced Calling Features are given access in a similar manner.

The MVNOs can only give you ECF on devices the MVNO sells from the carrier that have been whitelisted by the carrier who provides your carrier backbone. The backbone carrier provides or approves the phones sold and branded from the MVNO for a charge per device sold.

Your best chance for WFC support will be if the MVNO you choose offers VZW as carrier backbone option and then VZW will support WFC at the MVNO level. I expect that has a better chance than factory unlocked device. Next best option is to purchase an MVNO device that includes WFC support. Once received, test for WFC support or return device for refund.