Buying a Phone
In the UAE and GCC region some of the biggest selling mobile phone brands include Samsung, Apple, Huawei and Nokia. These brands and many more, regularly release new models every month
Whilst television adverts, billboards, and our friends tell us that every upgrade will improve our life and make things easier, it is definitely worth taking the time to ask ourselves whether we actually need that new phone.
In this article, we have put some tips together on buying a new phone – including whether you actually need to buy one in the first place!
Deciding whether to buy
Before looking around, think about your current phone. Has it become very slow or is it physically damaged? Is it over 2 years old?
If your phone is under 2 years old and slow or unresponsive, the issue may lie with too many apps being installed or items being saved; try and see if removing some things speeds it up.
If the memory is full, you may be able to purchase a memory card to increase the capacity and save on buying a new phone.
Does your phone have physical damage and isn’t working properly? Be sure to check if you have an insurance policy on it. You may be entitled to a replacement or refund.
If you really feel that your current phone has outlived its use and it’s time to upgrade, don’t forget to pass your phone on (first remove the sim card)! You may be able to sell it and put the funds towards your new phone. There may be another family member or friend who will make use of it, or if it is broken, there are many places who will recycle your phone for no extra cost.
Shopping for a new phone
Before looking around, decide what you can afford and do your best to stick to it.
If your motivation comes from a new advert or a recommendation from a friend, be careful. Take your time before deciding whether you should actually take the plunge. Sometimes when we buy something on impulse, only afterwards do we realise that we never actually needed it.
If you are purchasing with your credit card, make sure you can pay it off before you are billed. Don’t get into any payment plans, unless you have already worked out that you can pay it comfortably for the duration.
What do I need from my new phone?
Different people have different needs, but common things that people will compare are speed, camera, hardware, screen size, battery, and operating system.
If you have a brand in mind, or have seen a model that really attracts you – look at review websites online to check what people and professionals are saying about it. Sometimes marketing can be deceiving and they will never mention the faults that all the users are finding once they buy it! Be sure to also use these websites to find out what has been rated the best value.
Are older models an option?
Many phone companies will release models regularly in order to maximise sales. Take advantage of this; check out if their previous models are reduced in price as soon as new ones are released – you may be able to get a very good phone at a lower price.
Shop around for deals and best price
When shopping for your new phone, don’t just purchase the first one that fits your budget, or the model you want as soon as you see it. Different places will have different deals, some may give you a free cover or extra memory for example. Be sure to check online also, where prices may be even lower.
Buy now or wait?
Finally, if the phone you want is a new model, it may be worth holding on for a month or two, the price will normally drop once the demand for the new phone has fallen. Patience is an important skill for any smart shopper!
Once you have the phone
Look after it! That way your phone will have a good lifespan and you won’t need to buy another one soon.
Protect in cases of theft/loss
Take a note of the serial number and IMEI code and check if there is some anti-theft software that you can install. Doing this will greatly help you with tracking down your phone in cases of losing it, or if it is stolen.
Don’t install too many Apps!
Be careful with what apps you are installing. Don’t install lots of memory consuming ones and avoid installing ones from places you don’t trust – doing either may slow down your phone and convince you into getting another upgrade that you don’t really need.
Insure yourself
Be sure to protect your phone by taking an insurance policy out, or putting money away in a savings account each month as a “nest egg” incase something happens to your current phone.
Physically protect your phone
Don’t forget to get a case and a protective screen to make sure your phone is protected from all the traumas and wear and tear that comes with every day use.
Good luck!
When the day eventually comes that you need to get a new phone, we hope these tips can be of use to you and we wish you the very best of luck in your hunt!