Cellphone, laptop and 3G modem upgrades
What is an upgrade?
An upgrade is essentially the “renewal” of a contract. Most cellphone, laptop and 3G modem contracts are active for 24 months (newer 3G modem contracts however are active for only 12 months). Due to the contractual nature of the arrangement, customers usually remain bound to the agreement for the entire duration of the 24 month period.
However, service providers may allow customers to “upgrade” their device before the expiry of the 24 month contract. This involves signing a new 24-month contract which allows the customer to receive a new cellphone, laptop or 3G modem.
When can a cellphone, laptop or 3G modem contract be upgraded?
Typically lines are eligible for renewal in the 22nd month of the contract.
What is a service provider?
A service provider (SP) is the actual company with whom a customer signs up a contract. SPs are not to be confused with cellular networks (Vodacom, MTN and Cell C) which are responsible for providing cellular coverage. For example, while a customer may be with the Vodacom network, the actual contract is not signed with Vodacom but rather with a Vodacom SP or Nashua Mobile.
SPs are responsible for activating customers’ lines on the cellular network they have chosen. SPs are also responsible for providing customers with monthly statements and collecting payment from them.
Which South African cellular SPs offer upgrades?
- Nashua Mobile
- Vodacom SP
- MTN SP
- Cell C SP
- Virgin Mobile
- Autopage
Who can perform an upgrade?
Only the SP with which you have signed your contract is allowed to upgrade your device (cellphone, laptop or 3G modem). For example, if you have a cellphone on a Cell C contract with a Cell C SP, your Cell C SP can perform the upgrade in the 22nd month.
What can Dionysus Cellular offer you?
Dionysus Cellular is not allowed to upgrade your Vodacom SP, MTN SP or Cell C SP account, but because we’d love to wow you with our service, we are offering you the opportunity to switch to Dionysus Cellular/Nashua Mobile after your contract expires to earn one month’s free subscription.
How does the offer work?
When your contract is 22 months old, do not upgrade. Instead, email Dionysus Cellular to inform us of your intention to port your number at the end of the contract.
After your contract expires at the end of the 23rd month, apply online for a new deal on our website and port your existing number to us. After you pay your first bill, we’ll pay one month’s subscription into your Nashua Mobile account.