Smartphone and Tablet Certification

Getting your smartphones and tablets ready for our network starts here.

Get your solutions off the ground fast with our streamlined path to device certification.

People using tablets

Device Certification Details

What is T-Mobile device certification?

T-Mobile device certification is a network certification and validation process carried out on cellular devices to ensure the devices are compatible with the T-Mobile network and are functioning as per the standards providing optimum performance. The device OEMs/ODMs must obtain T-Mobile device certification for their devices that are intended to be deployed on the T-Mobile network.

Why do I have to get my devices T-Mobile certified?

T-Mobile certification for your devices is mandatory if you plan to deploy your devices on the T-Mobile network. The goal of the T-Mobile device certification process is to ensure your devices:

  • Does no harm to T-Mobile’s network or its partners’ users.
  • Provide acceptable performance.
  • Meet regulatory compliance.
  • Provides acceptable and usability for the user.

Non-Stock Handset Certification Process

Graph depicting Non-Stock Handset Certification Process
Computer chip

Get your smartphones and tablets certified.

  • PTCRB certification is mandatory for all device approvals.​
  • Handset or tablet must use a chipset certified by T-Mobile.
  • Complete required testing at a T-Mobile-approved Third Party test lab.
  • Receive T-Mobile certification for the device.​
Engineer certifying a phone

Resources for smartphones and tablets certification.

  • Receive PTCRB certification – https://www.ptcrb.com/
  • T-Mobile approved third party labs:
    • Element Materials Technology
    • Arclight
    • DVT & C
    • Tech Mahindra
    • Spirent
    • ATMCL
  • T-Mobile approved SIM suppliers:
    • Ice Mobility
    • Thales
    • G+D
    • Idemia

Questions about Devices?

Updates to device hardware or firmware/application software must be communicated to T-Mobile. Updated hardware or firmware/software must be approved by T-Mobile.

PTCRB stands for PCS Type Certification Review Board. It’s a certification program established by leading wireless operators to define test specifications and processes to ensure device interoperability on global wireless networks. With PTCRB certification, operators and device manufacturers are confident of a device’s interoperability with member mobile networks. PTCRB testing and certification is executed by PTCRB labs and certification provides:

  • Standardized framework for device certification.
  • Test specifications and processes to achieve certification.
  • Collaboration among multiple global standards development organizations.
  • Compliance with internationally recognized 3GPP network standards .

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