The carriers say they want to encrypt and store the credentials in the phone's SIM card, the small chips placed in the back of phones to activate access to mobile networks.

WSJ: RIM, Carriers Fight Over Digital Wallet

To activate mobile access to your Quicken data, Intuit requires you to create a new set of log-in information.

FORBES: Quicken 2013 Review

Before departure, he said, find out whether your phone will work at your destination, and if so, whether you can activate the international roaming access function that would allow you to receive and make calls.

CNN: Navigating cell phone headaches overseas

By contrast, Apple allows up to five computers to access protected content, so I activate and de-activate the machines I want to use and if for some reason a machine crashes and takes an activation with it, I can de-activate all my computers and get my licenses back.

ENGADGET: Entelligence: Have we demonized DRM?