Contracts where you have to wait a year or even two to get a new phone can be a hassle, especially when it feels like the phone is starting to deteriorate.
Because of that some will opt for a short but expensive contract, or a SIM only deal - although they'll have to pay for their own phone.
O2 has now offered another option in launching their new Switch Up scheme, which they say gives you the freedom to switch your current phone for a new one whenever you like.
There are some catches, such as keeping your phone in a good condition and paying a bit more than you would on most other normal plans. You also can't get your old phone back once it has been switched as it will be refurbished and sold on as a 'Like New' phone.
The plan would also allow you to pick a phone that has been refurbished, which would cost less overall but could still be switched so long as it's in good condition. There are also still some options if you do end up damaging your phone, however.
Here is some of the key information around the scheme to help you decide whether the Switch Up scheme is for you.
How does the scheme work?
If you are on the Switch Up scheme, you can go to an O2 store whenever you like and can switch your phone for a new one without having to settle the outstanding payments left on your contract. If you opt for a new phone your new contract may be a tad more expensive, however.
They will not make you settle outstanding payments as your phone would be refurbished and sold on as a 'Like New' device. O2 say that this is better for the environment as your phone won't be getting scrapped.
You can also opt for a 'Like New' phone if you want, where you could save each month as your pre-used but refurbished device will cost less than its brand new equivalent.
Damage such as scratches, chips and camera faults could mean that you aren't able to take advantage of the Switch Up scheme, in which case you can opt for one of the following alternative options:
- You can make a claim for any damage to your phone through your insurance (as long as you took it out)
- You can book your phone in for repair with O2
- You can recycle your current phone and offset some of the remaining balance on your plan before you upgrade
- You can pay off your existing plan to upgrade early – and you’ll keep your current phone, too
Find out more about what damage could cause you to fail the grading criteria here.
How much does it cost?
You can either get the Switch Up scheme for free as part of the Plus Plan or as a Bolt On to a custom plan, which will add £3.99 a month to your bill. The Plus plan, which also gets you some added bonuses such as six months free Apple Music or a three year device warranty, tends to cost more than most other plans.
The price of your plan will depend on your device as well as the length of time that you are on the plan for. Shorter contracts cost more but longer contracts are more susceptible to rising prices caused by inflation.
The consumer experts at Which? have warned that O2 contracts increased by 11.7 percent this year. You can still opt for a refurbished 'Like New' phone without having to get the Bolt On or the pricy Plus Plan, which may be a better option amid soaring inflation.
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