Can I upgrade early if I've had the same phone for years?

Maryharri

As a low user I have had a cheap tariff with T-mobile for years and have renewed the contract several times without replacing the phone. I would like to upgrade to a smart phone now, mid-contract, but was declined. Does anyone know if I should be able to do this on the strength that I haven't upgraded in the past?

billa_champion

From my understanding an upgrade is generally on the price plan you are on and not the handset.

grumbler

Maryharri wrote: »

As a low user I have had a cheap tariff with T-mobile for years and have renewed the contract several times without replacing the phone. I would like to upgrade to a smart phone now, mid-contract, but was declined. Does anyone know if I should be able to do this on the strength that I haven't upgraded in the past?

Generally, it is stupid (sorry) to renew the same contract without replacing the phone because the cost of the original phone is usually included in the price of the contract.
Now there is no point for T-mobile to give you a discounted handset as you are tied in the contract anyway and a discounted handset is usually just a bite to lure you into a new contract.

Maryharri

Thank you billa_champion and grumbler for your prompt replies.
I do realise that it wasn't the greatest thing to keep doing, but T-mobile had offered me such a good price for my low usage, when I considered going back to pay-a-you-go with another network, that I couldn't refuse. However, as I've waited this long to drag myself into the 21st century I can probably wait until next June. It's just a pity as they had an attractive offer on at the moment.
Thanks anyway,

macman

If you didn't want the upgraded handset to use, you should have taken it each time and then sold it immediately as new and unused.

ShaneUK

Why not pop into a shop and ask them though.....

JJ_Egan

Might be worth paying off your existing contact .Ask how much to pay off is what i would do .

jje

Maryharri

Good advice from you all. I will be wiser in future. I may try going into the shop. Previously when I rang customer services I always had a pleasant conversation with someone helpful in Scotland (I think) but not so lucky when I rang this time this time - harder going.