What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Yes, ZTE remains on the FCC’s Covered List, and the FCC bars covered ZTE phones from receiving equipment authorization. The latest list located is dated May 18, 2026. That restriction is not the same as a blanket rule making every existing ZTE phone illegal to own or use: sale and import of previously authorized models can be restricted case by case, while activation depends on the specific phone and carrier.
What “banned” means for ZTE phones
“Banned” can refer to different activities, and the FCC rules do not treat them all as one blanket prohibition. The central restriction is on equipment authorization: the FCC no longer reviews or approves covered equipment on the Covered List under its equipment-authorization rules.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
| Activity | What the FCC rule establishes |
|---|---|
| Authorization of covered ZTE phones | The FCC’s rules bar authorization of covered ZTE telecommunications equipment, including phones. FCC 22-84 |
| Import, marketing, or sale of a previously authorized device | The FCC adopted a case-by-case process that can prohibit these activities for previously authorized Covered List devices; it does not mean every older ZTE model has automatically been prohibited. FCC 25-71 |
| Purchases or support funded by the Universal Service Fund | USF recipients may not use program funds to obtain or support ZTE equipment or services. This funding restriction is not itself a general consumer sales rule. DA 20-691 |
| Personal possession or use of an existing phone | The FCC sources cited here do not establish that owning every existing ZTE phone is illegal or require owners to stop using one. |
| Activation on a U.S. carrier | Not settled by the FCC authorization rule alone. The phone’s model, radio-band compatibility, authorization history, software support, and carrier policy may matter. |
Can you buy or use a ZTE phone in the United States?
Buying one
The FCC’s case-by-case authority means the status of a particular previously authorized model matters. It is not evidence that all old ZTE phones are currently prohibited from sale. Before buying, check the exact model, whether the FCC has imposed a device-specific restriction, and whether the seller can legally offer that device.
Using one you already own
The cited FCC rules do not say that every existing owner must stop using a ZTE phone. They also do not guarantee that a particular phone will work: a carrier may not support its model or network bands, and software or service support can vary. Check your carrier’s supported-device list for the precise model rather than relying on the brand name alone.
#1 Best Overall
- Charger NOT Included, 6.7" Super AMOLED FHD+, 90Hz Refresh Rate, 385 ppi, 800 nits (HBM), 1080x2340px, 5000mAh Battery
- 128GB, 4GB RAM, microSDXC, Exynos 1330 (5nm), Octa-Core, Mali-G68 MP2 or Mali-G57 MC2 GPU
- Rear Camera: 50MP, f/1.8 (wide) + 5MP, f/2.2 (ultrawide) + 2MP, f/2.4 (macro), LED flash, panorama, HDR; Front Camera: 13MP, f/2.0, Android 14, up to 6 major Android upgrades, One UI 6.1
- 3G: HSDPA 850/900/1700(AWS)/1900/2100; 4G LTE: 1/2/3/4/5/7/12/13/14/20/25/26/28/29/30/38/39/40/41/48/66/71, 5G: 2/5/25/41/66/71/77/78 SA/NSA/Sub6/mmWave - Nano-SIM + eSIM
- US Model – Global Connectivity – Compatible with Most GSM Carriers like T-Mobile, AT&T, MetroPCS, etc. Will Also work with CDMA Carriers Such as Verizon, Straight Talk.
Activating it with a U.S. carrier
The Covered List and authorization rule do not answer whether a specific handset can be activated on a specific carrier. Confirm the exact model with the carrier and ask whether it can be activated on the plan and network you intend to use. FCC authorization status and carrier compatibility are separate questions.
What the FCC says about the security risk
The FCC’s Covered List identifies “Telecommunications equipment produced or provided by ZTE Corporation, including telecommunications or video surveillance services provided or provided by such entity or using such equipment.” The entry gives March 12, 2021 as ZTE’s inclusion date. The May 18, 2026 Covered List continues to include ZTE telecommunications equipment.
Rank #2
- 【High-definition large screen, visually stunning】Featuring a 6.6-inch In-Cell HD display with a resolution of 576×1280 pixels, the screen delivers vivid and bright colors for an exceptional visual experience. Whether watching videos, browsing the web, or playing games, everything appears clearer and smoother.
- 【Powerful Performance, Smooth Operation】Equipped with a MediaTek MTK6739 quad-core processor, combined with 4GB RAM and 32GB storage, the system runs stable and efficient. Supports microSD card expansion up to 256GB, easily storing more photos, videos, and apps.
- 【Capture clarity, record brilliance】Equipped with an 13-megapixel front camera and a 16-megapixel rear dual-camera system, it meets all your selfie and everyday photography needs. Capture every beautiful moment in life with clear and natural images.
- 【Long-lasting battery life, fast charging】Features a built-in 5000mAh high-capacity battery with a Type-C charging port for faster, safer charging. Delivers powerful endurance for daily use, eliminating the need for frequent recharging on the go.
- 【Smart System, Seamless Experience】Powered by Android 12.0, featuring a clean and intuitive interface. Supports facial recognition unlocking and a triple-card slot design (dual SIM + memory card), offering flexible and convenient communication and expansion options.
The security rationale should be understood as the FCC’s stated position, not as a finding that every ZTE phone has been shown to be compromised. In its October 14, 2025 advisory, the FCC called Covered List equipment and services unacceptable national security risks and recommended that individuals and organizations review the list and consider the risks. Read the FCC advisory.
Quick Recap
Rank #4
- Compatibility Notice: Requires physical nano-SIM card. ONLY works with T-Mobile's native network. Does NOT support MVNOs (Mint Mobile, Metro, Red Pocket, Cricket, Boost) or other carriers (AT&T, Verizon).
- Compact 4.96" Display for Easy One-Handed Use: The AGM Note N2 fits naturally in one hand and slips easily into any pocket or bag. The compact 4.96-inch screen makes it effortless to check calls, texts, and messages on the go — a practical daily phone, backup device, or travel companion for anyone who prefers a smaller, more manageable smartphone. Features 1 rear camera (5MP) and 1 front camera (0.3MP) for everyday photos and video calls.
- Android 16 GO for Simple Daily Communication: Powered by Android 16 GO Edition, the AGM Note N2 handles everyday essentials smoothly — calls, texts, browsing, email, and video chats. Designed for essential daily tasks. Not recommended for heavy multitasking, graphic-intensive apps, or mobile gaming.
- Removable 3000mAh Battery + 3GB RAM + 32GB Storage: Unlike most modern smartphones, AGM Note N2 features a removable battery — easy to replace when needed, giving you more flexibility for long-term use. 3GB RAM supports smooth everyday performance for calls, messages, and browsing. 32GB internal storage expandable up to 256GB via microSD.
- Dual Nano SIM — Flexible for Work, Travel, and Backup Use: Manage two phone numbers on one compact device — ideal for keeping work and personal lines separate, staying connected while traveling, or using as a reliable backup phone. Includes Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GPS, and a 3.5mm headphone jack for a complete everyday experience.
Rank #3
- Compatibility: Compatible with T-Mobile, Metro, Boost, Mint, Ultra, Ting, and Consumer Cellular. If your carrier is not listed, please confirm compatibility with your preferred carrier. This device is 4G/LTE only and does not support band 71 or 5G. This device is not compatible with networks like AT&T, Cricket, Verizon, or Tracfone and does not include a SIM card.
- All of the Essentials: The Unnecto Bolt One has a 5" screen, 5MP main camera and 2MP front facing camera.
- Connect Everywhere: Bluetooth 4.2, Wi-Fi, GPS, and USB Type C ensure that you can connect however you need.
- Software: Android 14 Go runs in parallel with the 2GB of RAM and 1.3 GHz Quad core processor.
- Customizable Storage: with 32GB of internal storage and an additional 512GB of expandable storage with a microSD card, the Bolt One offers the flexibility to expand your device's capacity, providing additional space for photos, videos, and files.
How the restrictions developed
- June 30, 2020: The FCC designated ZTE for the Universal Service Fund restriction. Recipients may not use USF funds to purchase, obtain, maintain, improve, modify, or otherwise support ZTE equipment or services. DA 20-691
- March 12, 2021: The date the FCC Covered List records for ZTE’s inclusion for telecommunications equipment. Covered List
- November 11, 2021: Congress enacted the Secure Equipment Act, directing the FCC to stop reviewing or approving equipment-authorization applications for covered equipment on the list. FCC 26-60
- November 25, 2022: The FCC adopted rules implementing the authorization prohibition, which it said covers ZTE telecommunications equipment, including phones. FCC 22-84
- 2025: The FCC established a case-by-case process for restricting importation, marketing, or sale of previously authorized Covered List devices. FCC 25-71
- October 14, 2025: The FCC issued a national security advisory about Covered List equipment and services. DA 25-927
- May 18, 2026: The latest FCC Covered List located continues to list ZTE telecommunications equipment. Covered List
How to check a specific ZTE phone
- Find the exact model number in the phone’s settings, on its packaging, or on its label. A model name alone may not identify the device precisely.
- Check its FCC equipment-authorization history and whether the FCC has issued a device-specific restriction affecting import, marketing, or sale.
- If you are considering a purchase, verify the current seller and transaction status for that model; the general Covered List entry is not a model-by-model sales determination.
- Ask your carrier whether it supports and can activate that exact model, and check network-band compatibility and available software support.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
