Setting up your refurbished device is no different from setting up a brand-new one. Simply turn it on and follow the prompts on the screen.
Pro tip: Once your device is set up, download the Back Market app and use our diagnostics feature to test your device. Go to “Account” > “Start diagnostics”.
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How do I set up my device?
Does my order include a SIM card?
Will my device be compatible if I switch networks?
I bought an unlocked device, but my SIM card isn’t recognised
The listing says my network is supported, but my network says it’s incompatible
My Android is supposed to be unlocked for my network, but it turns on with another network’s logo
How do I set up my device?
We’ve collected the best guides from around the internet to help you get started.
Apple
Set up your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch (Apple)
Transfer data from your previous Apple device (Apple)
Move from Android to iPhone (Apple)
Samsung
Transfer content to a new Galaxy with Smart Switch (Samsung UK)
Google Pixel
Set up your Pixel phone (Google)
Transfer from iPhone to Pixel (Google)
Transfer from Android to Pixel (Google)
Other laptops and tablets
Set up a new Windows PC (Microsoft)
Set up your Galaxy Tab A (Samsung UK)
Set up your Surface (Microsoft)
Set up an Amazon Fire tablet (Amazon UK)
Does my order include a SIM card?
No. Back Market devices don’t come with a SIM card. Choose the UK network that’s right for you and get set up with a SIM or eSIM.
Learn about SIM cards, dual SIMs, and eSIM
See if a prepaid (PAYG) SIM is right for you
Will my device be compatible if I switch networks?
It depends on whether your phone is locked or unlocked.
Locked phones can only be used with a specific network. Unlocked phones can be used with any compatible UK network. Just insert the SIM (or activate an eSIM) and you’re all set.
At Back Market, all our phones are labelled as locked or unlocked. You’ll see this in the product title on each listing.
Learn more about the difference between locked and unlocked
Troubleshoot if your unlocked phone won’t work with your network
Check if your phone will work with your network
I bought an unlocked device, but my SIM card isn’t recognised
Some UK networks may require your device’s IMEI to be registered before it connects (common with certain plans/MVNOs). Log in to your network account on their website/app and follow their steps to add your device. You can also visit a store for help.
Learn how to find your IMEI number
Troubleshoot if your eSIM isn’t working
The listing says my network is supported, but my network says it’s incompatible
Double‑check by entering your IMEI in your network’s “bring your own device” (compatibility) checker. Learn how to find your IMEI number
If you’ve ordered your phone and it isn’t compatible, we’re sorry for the inconvenience. Please log in to your Back Market account > “Orders” > “Get help”. We’ll respond within 1 business day — this is a priority for us.
Log in to your Back Market account
My Android is supposed to be unlocked for my network, but it turns on with another network’s logo
Don’t worry — this can happen if the phone was originally sold by another network. It shouldn’t affect your ability to use it as long as it’s truly network‑unlocked and compatible with your UK network.