In our connected world, it’s no surprise that so many of us love tech. Smartphones have allowed us to stream entertainment, connect with loved ones, game, and accomplish more at work. That’s why if you really want to make a statement for the holidays, birthdays, or any special occasion, you can learn the best way to give a phone as a gift.
As you can imagine, the latest, most advanced smartphones are often some of the most beloved and popular tech gifts in the world. It only makes sense that so many people want to give a new phone to someone special. And while gifting a phone is likely to be a huge hit, you might also have a few questions. For example: How do you set up service for someone else? And how do you choose the right plan?
With the right answers, you’ll discover that how to gift a phone can be a straightforward process.
How to gift a phone to someone on your family plan
When it comes to how to gift an iPhone—or any smartphone—to someone on your family plan, it can be simple. The wireless service will work the same way it does for your own device. And with many phone plans, your cost per line might actually go down as you add more lines to your account. Sign into your account online or in the app to start the process.
Giving your child a cell phone can be a big decision, and it’s often decided on a case-by-case basis. While some parents decide to wait until a child reaches a certain age before having a phone, others may choose to give one earlier. We offer parental controls and security protections that can help along the way.
One practical approach for a first phone is to hand down your own phone as a gift. This can be a great option for kids, who may be more likely to damage or lose a new device. It also gives you or your spouse an opportunity to upgrade your current device.
How to gift a phone to friends and family outside your plan
Not everyone you buy a phone for will be on your plan, so it might take a little extra planning. First, choose the right smartphone to meet the recipient’s lifestyle. Also consider their carrier if it’s different from yours.
How to choose the right smartphone
To pick the ideal phone, think about the recipient’s needs—are they more into taking pictures, gaming, or handling work tasks? Some phones offer better camera features, while others have stronger processing power, making them ideal for specific interests.
It’s also important to consider whether they prefer iOS or Android, as switching between the two can sometimes be challenging, especially if they’ve been using one for years. Additionally, many people are loyal to specific brands, so finding out which they prefer can guide you toward a phone they’ll feel comfortable with.
You’ll also want to factor in the phone’s size, durability, and design. Some people prefer larger screens for media consumption, while others enjoy a smaller, more portable device. If durability is important, especially for active users or younger recipients, look for models with a rugged design or water resistance.
Reading reviews and comparing models online can help you choose a phone that’s tailored to the gift recipient’s lifestyle, ensuring they get the best experience possible.
One of the best ways to give a phone as a gift when the recipient isn’t on your phone plan is to buy the device and then help your loved one activate it with their carrier using a Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) program. You can buy an eligible device from retailers, and your loved one can activate it later.
Assess the cost of the phone
Before buying a phone as a gift, it’s essential to understand the full cost involved. Prices can vary significantly based on the phone’s brand, model, and storage capacity, so setting a budget ahead of time is helpful. Consider looking for holiday deals, trade-in options, or installment plans that can make the gift more affordable, especially with premium smartphones.
In addition to the cost of the phone itself, factor in any activation fees, prepaid data plans, or accessories they might need. Some carriers offer discounts on bundles that include phone accessories like cases, screen protectors, and chargers, which can be an added value for the recipient. Understanding these costs upfront helps you prepare for the full expense and can pick the best payment option to suit your budget.
Do you need insurance?
Deciding whether to purchase insurance for the gifted phone is another important step. Insurance can provide peace of mind, covering accidental damage, loss, or theft, which can be especially valuable for pricier devices or users who tend to be hard on their tech. Look into the types of coverage offered by different carriers, such as AT&T Protect Advantage. Policies can vary widely in terms of what they cover and the deductible amounts.
Weigh the cost of insurance against the phone’s value and the likelihood of it needing repairs or replacement to make the best decision for your gift.
Should you set up the phone ahead of time?
Activating the phone ahead of time can be a great way to ensure that the gift is ready to use right out of the box. Consider installing any necessary updates, transferring contacts, and adding accounts (with their permission), so the recipient doesn’t have to handle these tasks. This can be especially thoughtful for less tech-savvy recipients who might find the setup process daunting.
However, some people enjoy personalizing their devices from scratch, so you may want to ask if they’d prefer to handle the setup themselves. If you do decide to set it up, be sure to preserve the original packaging and include any manuals or warranty cards.
How do you set up service for someone else?
For a seamless setup, visit a retail store or use the carrier’s online activation portal. You may need to provide essential information like the recipient’s contact details and preferred plan. Some carriers also offer temporary service setups with a transfer process that the recipient can finalize at their convenience. Confirm whether the recipient wants features like international calling, data add-ons, or number porting, so you can tailor the setup to their preferences.
How do you choose the right plan?
Choosing the best wireless plan starts with understanding how the gift recipient will use their phone. Consider factors like data usage, talk time, and text needs—heavy internet users may need an unlimited data plan, while those who mostly call or text might benefit from a more basic package. If the phone will primarily be used in the U.S., a domestic plan is likely sufficient, but for someone who travels frequently, an international option or roaming add-ons might be worth exploring.
Budget remains a key factor when selecting a plan, as prices can vary significantly based on features and add-ons. Carriers often offer prepaid options or discounts that could help reduce costs while providing flexibility. Comparing plans and checking for any current promotions can ensure you get the best value for the recipient’s needs.
Give the gift of top-tier tech with AT&T
As you can see, the best way to give a phone as a gift includes plenty of options. And the result isn’t as complicated as you might expect. Gifting a great phone is a wonderful way for people to make any occasion extra special.
Whether you’re gifting a phone to someone on your phone plan or not, we have all your needs covered, from premium cell phones to extensive service options. Gift a new phone from AT&T today.
This article has been significantly revised by Zoya Cochran on December 11, 2025, to include updates on phone upgrade, trade-in, insurance, wireless plan, and add-on options.
