What’s the difference between the two options?
HiFi gives you two ways to receive calls. You pick one during setup.
Use my existing number keeps the number you have today. Your carrier forwards calls from that number to HiFi through call forwarding.
Get a new number gives you a separate HiFi number. People call and text that number, and your personal number keeps working as it does now.
Use my existing number | Get a new number | |
|---|---|---|
Your number changes | No | You get an extra HiFi number |
HiFi answers calls to your current number | Yes | No |
Text messaging in HiFi | Not available | Available |
Carrier requirement | A supported US carrier | None |
SIM for your number needed in this phone | Yes | No |
When should I use my existing number?
Use your existing number if people already know it and you want HiFi to screen and answer calls to it. This works well if you have one phone number for everything.
Keep in mind:
Your carrier must be supported. HiFi supports AT&T, Verizon, Xfinity Mobile, Tracfone, Spectrum, T-Mobile, Mint Mobile, Metro by T-Mobile, Cricket, and Boost Mobile.
HiFi can’t send or receive texts with call forwarding alone. Your texts stay in your phone’s built-in Messages app.
Calls you make from your phone’s built-in Phone app still go through your carrier, not HiFi.
When should I get a new number?
Get a new number if you want a line that’s separate from your personal number, such as a number for work or a side business. A HiFi number is also the right choice if your carrier isn’t supported.
With a HiFi number:
You can text, send group messages, and share photos and files in HiFi.
HiFi suggests a local number, or you can search by city or area code.
Calls to your personal number don’t go to HiFi. Only calls to your HiFi number do.
Can I switch later?
Yes, you can switch from call forwarding to a new number. First turn off call forwarding at your carrier, then claim a HiFi number. HiFi asks you to turn off forwarding before you can claim a number. For steps, read “Turn off call forwarding” and “Get a new HiFi number”.
Related articles
“What is call forwarding?”
“Get a new HiFi number”
“Set up call forwarding in HiFi”
“Turn on text messaging”