When you first purchased your smartphone, you thought you’d have it forever. After all, it likely cost you a month’s salary and it was a precious investment.
Yet, there comes a time when even the most robust device conks out. Whether yours is on the fritz or you’re simply interested in trading it in for the latest model, there’s a process to follow.
Today, we’re sharing how to replace or upgrade a phone, one step at a time.
Upgrading or Replacing an iPhone
Let’s start by covering how to approach a phone replacement for your Apple device. According to the latest data, there are roughly one billion active iPhones out there, and there’s a good chance you’re in that number.
Are you ready to upgrade yours to the latest model? If so, here are the steps to follow.
Step 1: Ensure Eligibility
Simply wanting to upgrade your iPhone isn’t enough. Apple has to verify that you’re actually eligible to do so.
You can sign in with your Apple ID and check your phone’s status with just a few clicks by visiting the brand’s Eligibility Sign-In Page. Or, you can enter your phone’s serial number and IMEI number manually. The IMEI number is located on the silver sticker on the back of your phone.
Step 2: Choose Your Phone
Once you’ve confirmed that you are indeed eligible to upgrade your iPhone, then the next step is easy. All you have to do is choose the model that you want to upgrade to!
As you browse the options, consider any existing pain points that you’re experiencing with your current phone.
For instance, do you want extra memory to hold all of your app data? Or, do you need more storage space for those thousands of pictures clogging up your device? You may also require a longer battery life, especially if you find that yours is always running low.
Review the specs on each model, and choose accordingly. You can do everything online through the Apple website, or you can visit an Apple Store in person, where a support specialist will walk you through the process. Before you finish this step, you’ll also need to select the level of support coverage you want.
Step 3: Provide Personal and Account Information
To upgrade your iPhone, you’ll need to provide the access information for your current wireless account. This way, you can make sure that the bill you receive reflects the changes you’ve made.
To complete the process, you’ll also need to supply Apple with a few details so they can verify your identity and perform a credit check. This includes your:
- Social security number
- Date of birth
- Valid U.S. credit or debit card
Note that you’ll need these items for both online and in-store transactions. If you visit an Apple Store, bring a primary and secondary form of ID.
Step 4: Receive Your New Phone
If you upgrade your phone online, then your new model will ship directly to your doorstep. In addition, Apple will also send you its designated Trade-In Kit. You can follow the instructions in the kit to send your former phone back to Apple.
If you upgrade at an Apple store, you can walk away with your new model the same day. You can also choose to have your new phone sent to the store so you can pick it up in person, even if you order it online.
Upgrading or Replacing a Samsung Phone
Do you prefer the Android OS to the iOS? If so, then you might be ready to upgrade or replace your Samsung phone. When that time comes, here are the steps to follow.
Step 1: Prepare Your Device
Samsung runs the user-friendly Samsung Device Trade-In Program, which makes this process a cinch.
Before you can trade in your phone, the brand requires that you prepare your device. This means backing up your data and clearing any type of personal information. You’ll also need to remove all software locks and passwords installed.
The brand makes it clear that it does not assume any type of responsibility for any personal data that’s left on your device when you turn it in to their program. Take the time to back up what you want to save, and thoroughly remove anything that you don’t need.
Step 2: Conduct a Factory Reset
Next, you’ll need to perform a factory reset on your phone. Through this process, you will remove any new apps that you’ve downloaded since you received the device. You will also reset the entire operating system.
Note that this will totally all of the information left on your phone. Before you perform the reset, make sure that you’ve thoroughly backed up all of your personal data.
Step 3: Prepare Your Phone For Shipment
After the factory reset, you’re ready to send your current phone back to Samsung. The brand clearly defines the steps to follow, including how to package, label, and ship your device.
Make sure that you use plenty of packaging material to protect your phone during transit, and seal the box well. You can take the phone to a designated FedEx Shipping Center to mail it. You are not permitted to mail any accessories along with your phone.
Step 4: Access Your Trade-In Value
Once Samsung receives your phone, you’ll receive a trade-in value in your account. You can use this value to purchase a newer-model Galaxy device. Note that the device you select will be new, as the trade-in value does not apply to pre-used Samsung phones.
To receive the value, Samsung must deem that your phone meets certain criteria for form and function. This includes:
- The ability to power on and hold a charge
- No sudden power-offs
- A functioning, blemish-free display
- No breaks or cracks beyond standard wear and tear
With the trade-in value in your account, you’re ready to start shopping for your new phone! To protect your investment, look here for a rugged case that can safeguard your Galaxy S21
Is It Time to Upgrade a Phone?
Increasingly, we rely on our phones to perform a range of daily functions. From the clothes we wear to the food we eat, we order it, review it, and share it all on our screens.
That said, is it time to replace or upgrade a phone soon? You want to make sure you’re using the latest model to support all of your day-to-day data needs. By following the steps above, you can hold your new device in a matter of days!
Looking for other guides on everything from business to beauty? Check back often for more helpful advice!
