A:AnswerActivate today is agreeing to buy a plan with a network provider at time of sale. Depending on provider they may require a contract. That would limit ability to switch within an agreed time period.
Activate later is avoiding dealing with a provider at time of sale. This would be the recommended option if you currently have service or want to use a prepaid plan.
A:AnswerNo, I don't think so. I believe what they refer to by "activation" is that you have to pick one of the carriers the store works with and use the phone with them.