Technology advances so quickly. It seems like whenever you get a new smartphone, a better version is released within a year. Wouldn't it be nice to upgrade as soon as a new phone came out? The AT&T Next Up plan promises to make this dream a reality.
What Is AT&T Next Up?
AT&T Next Up lets you upgrade to the newest device, so long as you've paid off 50% of your current phone, for only five dollars more. Sounds a little too good to be true, right?
Well, it really is as good as advertised. However, there are a few minor details you'll want to be aware of. For instance, $0 down requires a high enough credit score, but that's the case with a standard installment plan, even without Next Up.
And you can't just upgrade willy-nilly. Depending on your credit score and “other factors,” you need to have had your current device for between 30 and 90 days. Still, it isn't likely that a new phone will be released less than a month after its previous version.
Who Is Eligible?
The good news is, as long as you have an installment plan with them already, you're probably eligible for AT&T Up Next. Your account must be in good standing, which means no outstanding fees or late payments.
You also have to trade in the device that you're already financing through AT&T. As we mentioned earlier, you need to have paid off at least half of it's value. It also needs to be in good physical condition as well as fully functional. If your screen is cracked, they may decline your upgrade.
You can easily check your eligibility by logging into your My AT&T account. Go to Account Overview and select the device you're interested in upgrading. If you see the words “Upgrade eligible” or “eligible to upgrade”, then you're good to go.
The Bottom Line
AT&T Next Up is perfect if you're all about having the latest phone. For only five dollars more a month, you have the flexibility to upgrade as soon as a new device is available.
For more specific information about AT&T Next Up, check out the official information page. If you need help finding the perfect phone, try our cell phone comparison tool. Happy upgrading!
I just used next up and it seems like a scam. They are still charging me the installment fees for the old phone as well as the next up cost. So I’m currently paying installment fees for both my new phone and the phone I gave back to AT&T for the upgrade as well as 2 separate charges for the next up plan. I will be reaching out to AT&T when they open this morning. If they don’t resolve the issue this morning, I will be switching to Verizon by this afternoon.
It’s a waste of money. I took my son’s phone in for his trade and it’s in great condition. They noticed a scratch on the screen and refused to take it. They said I’d have to pay off his phone to get another one. Phone is in perfect working order and pristine otherwise. I’m switching carriers.
At&t phone upgrade is NOT FREE. They advertise up to $700 credit, but that is not true. If you are one of the few that have paid-off your phone but fall for a FREE Upgrade you will be right back paying for a phone. Yes they give you a credit each month BUT if you cancel your account you will be on the hook for the additional monies not credited for that upgrade. Beware of AT&T and the hidden lies.
Right you are, Craig! We actually published a video recently warning people to watch out of overpriced deals from carriers. Here’s a link if you’d like to check it out: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dSAROrgnI1o
I mean.. doesn’t this go without saying? What idiot would think you would get a free phone with no commitment??