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General discussion

How can I upgrade phones without upgrading plan?

Jun 2, 2004 10:36AM PDT

I currently have a Cingular's family plan with a total of 4 phones, some of which need replacing. I was told by my Cingular dealer that I cannot upgrade any phones without changing/upgrading plans.

I would probably save some money by changing to a family plan with no roaming charges and no long distance charges. However, I do not want to be on the GSM network. Everything I have read here suggests that it is not up to par yet.

I've never had any problems with dropped calls, reception, etc. I'm not "cell phone literate" so I would appreciate any assistance. Thanks

Discussion is locked

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Re:How can I upgrade phones without upgrading plan?
Jun 5, 2004 5:36PM PDT

Although GSM might have its flaws, most of the "cooler" new phones for cingular/at&t/tmobile are GSM... in addition, they also have SIM cards which allows consumers to upgrade phones without much trouble (for example buy a phone on ebay and then just swap out your SIM card)...

If GSM doesn't sound right still - check again with another cingular dealer about upgrading phones.. I'm with at&t and not only do they allow me to upgrade - they give me discounts on the new phone. They allow me to do so every year. I have however, jumped onto the GSM rocketship so that might be the reason why I can upgrade. Sorry if I didn't give you any definite solution to your problem, good luck

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Phones
Jan 19, 2005 6:16AM PST

You can buy the phone out right and they cannot extend your contract. I would try to do that, it may cost more in the begining but in the end, you will be saving and you will have a phone that will work.

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Cell phone without plan
Apr 24, 2005 10:27AM PDT

HI

I recently lost my cell phone and because I didn't purchase the insurance I need to buy another. However, I do not want to spend a lot of money on a new one and I am not quite eligible to upgrade yet. Does anyone know where I can purchase a cingular phone without paying an arm and a leg for it? The cheaper the better (preferably free!!!). This is my only source of contact so I appreciate anyone's and/or everyone's willingness to aid me in my dilemma.

Yours truly,

Phoneless in Seattle (although I am really in TX, I just think it sounds nice)

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You can
Jan 19, 2005 9:19AM PST

upgrade phones w/o changing plans. They are not fused together. The way I understand Cingular.

Changing the number of phones, roaming and long distance is changing plans.

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How can I upgrade phones without upgrading plan?
Jan 21, 2005 12:41PM PST

Try E-bay, or Amazon.. A lot of people sell their old phone, and as long it is the same carrier then you can use this with your carrier.. it works! Why don't you want GSM phone? GSM phone can be use overseas...

Once you buy another phone, all you have to do, is transfer (cingular) the sim card to the new phone. Online have a lot of phone, unlock and cheaper then the store!

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Upgrade
Jan 23, 2005 2:14AM PST

If your not quite ready to commit to GSM phones, try either the Sony Ericsson T62U or the Nokia 6430I handsets. They are compatible w/ the older TDMA and the newer GSM networks. I don't know availablity in stores. This would allow you to keep your same calling plan as is. The only requirement to change your plan is if you want the Unlimited Mobile to Mobile calling feature which does require the GSM phone. With the new plans, you can still keep the Family Talk plans w/ up to 4 lines.

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suggestion
Apr 24, 2005 12:38PM PDT

Check your local store to see if any Sony Ericsson T62U or Nokia 6340I handsets are available. Those phones operate on both TDMA and GSM networks. I assume you are currently using TDMA. This would allow you to keep your current calling plan unchanged. Otherwise, try finding an unused TDMA handset elsewhere. Hope that helps.