Replacing Cell Phones

[Antares]

I tend to keep the same cell phone 3 to 6 years. I think I'm due for a new one now, since just about everyone says that they hear static from my phone. I've dropped it too many times and there's a few cracks in it. I have a Samsung r225m which I got at the end of 2000 with T-Mobile. Right now I'm debating whether to keep T-Mobile or switch to another company.....

 

[rockthecasbah]

now i really don't know what's going to happen for my phone. I was reading Cingular's upgrading info (which is very scarce) on their website and they said you are eligible to upgrade if your contract has passed or is near to and have been good standing with Cingular. Do you think they would let me get an upgrade price if i agreed to put an additional 2 years on what is still left on my contract right now?

 

[Abstract]

Dude, just buy a camera.

 

[rockthecasbah]

Dude, just buy a camera.

it's not even really about the whole camera thing anymore, that's just a nice touch. And buying a camera won't really do anything because i'll never have it with me when i want to actually take a photo worth keeping.

 

[matticus008]

T-mobile has treated me well.

I have to agree that T-Mo is by far the best US domestic carrier. Their customer service is prompt, courteous, and thorough, their coverage is good, and best of all, the bill was always free of errors or gross overcharges (*cough* Verizon, Rogers Canada take note *cough*).

On the other hand, trying to cancel your T-Mobile service is almost like taking a baseball to the face over and over. Despite my contract being over for two months, it still took me six phone calls and 8 weeks to get the account closed. It's almost like they don't want you to leave, even if you're moving out of the country .

iGary, I think you'll find Windows Mobile 5 phones to be really very nice, especially after coming off the Treo crapstorm (been there, done that).

 

[sushi]

So i pose the following questions:

1. How long do you keep your cell phones before replacing them?

2. Do you replace them even if they are not broken, like my situation?

3. Do you know of upgrade prices that you can extend your contract and get a phone discounted?

4. Am I being an ass and should i just keep my phone and suck it up? o )

1. Not until I have to -- or there is a need such as my current one is broken. I've had my current phone about 5 years. The one before that about 6 years. Then again, I use my cell phone as a phone and not a gagget center.
2. Nope
3. Many plans here in Japan. Probably like the states. Some plans can be confusing with so many options.
4. No comment!

You mentioned having a camera. Many phones here have two cameras with one of them having an optical zoom

Others have GPS and mapping software. Some are for kids. Some are for old folks.

Many options with models changing about every 6 months.