How do I switch to another phone after mine is lost?
Answer
Move service to the replacement phone by transferring or replacing the SIM/eSIM with your carrier, then sign in to your Apple or Google account on the new device and use Find My or Find Hub to lock or locate the lost phone.
Before you start: stop right away if…
- Erasing the lost phone remotely removes the chance to unlock it if it is returned, so use Lost Mode / lock first unless you are sure it will not come back.
Follow these steps
Secure the lost phone from another device
On a computer or another phone, open Find My (iPhone) or Find Hub / Find My Device (Android), sign in with the account used on the lost phone, and mark the device as lost or locked.
You should see: The lost phone is locked remotely and can show a contact message if it comes online.
Move your number to the temporary phone
If the temporary phone uses a physical SIM and you still have the SIM from the lost phone, insert it. If the phone used an eSIM or the SIM is gone, contact your carrier to transfer or issue service to the temporary device.
You should see: The temporary phone can make calls and use mobile data on your number.
Sign in to your cloud account on the temporary phone
Sign in with the same Apple ID or Google account so messages, contacts, and backed-up apps can restore where available.
You should see: Your account appears on the temporary phone and cloud data begins syncing.
Update banking and two-factor apps
Open critical apps on the temporary phone and complete any device verification they request so you can still receive codes and approve sign-ins.
You should see: You can access important accounts without relying on the lost phone.
Decide whether to keep searching or replace the phone
Continue checking Find My / Find Hub for a location. If the phone stays offline, ask your carrier about suspending service on the old device IMEI if needed and plan a permanent replacement.
You should see: You either locate the phone or have a clear plan to replace it while keeping your number.
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Extra tips
What to look for: Whether the lost phone used a physical SIM or eSIM, and whether it was an iPhone or Android device
Before you change anything: Write down your phone number and carrier name. Confirm whether the lost phone used a physical SIM or eSIM. Have your Apple ID or Google account password and any two-factor method ready on a trusted device. Do not give verification codes to anyone who calls claiming they found your phone.