Cannot set up new CM3000 cable modem with out a phone??

Had to upgrade from CM600 to CM3000 due to 'end of Netgear service'. Received the new modem only to find out that I need to use a cell phone to install it after opening the box. I only have a simple Tracfone for emergencies that does not have data. Having someone else go to google play as the instructions put it  (apparently that means google play store)  has 5 choices for this APP. What my friend got looked like it was to pay their bills. I wonder which one it was. I've spent several hours trying to find anything that would help on the Xfinity and Netgear websites. All 5 other internet providers had a phone number to activate a new modem. Really frustrating. I think I stumbled on this part of Netgears "support" area and I am writing to other customers that also have problems. So I am hoping someone at Netgear monitors this and can help in some way. Otherwise a return I suppose.