Bells HardingstoneYou have had your phone for a while now. The screen is scratched. The battery drains by midday. The camera does not compare to the latest models. And your friends are all showing off their new devices. You are ready for an upgrade.
But when exactly can you upgrade your Vodacom contract? The answer is not as simple as waiting for a specific date. It depends on your contract type, your payment history, and whether you want to upgrade to a new phone or just a new plan.
This guide covers everything you need to know about upgrading your Vodacom contract. We explain upgrade windows, how to check your eligibility, the difference between device upgrades and plan upgrades, and what to do if you want to upgrade early.
When Can I Upgrade Vodacom: Complete Guide
Understanding Vodacom Upgrades
There are two types of upgrades:
1. Device upgrade: You get a new phone (usually on a new 24-month contract).
2. Plan upgrade: You change your airtime or data plan without changing your device.
The rules and timing are different for each.
Quick Reference: Vodacom Upgrade Windows
| Contract Type | Device Upgrade Window | Plan Upgrade Window |
|---|---|---|
| 24‑month contract | Last 3 months (months 21–24) | Any time |
| 36‑month contract (RSA) | Not available | Any time |
| Month‑to‑month (Top‑Up) | Not applicable | Any time |
| Prepaid | Not applicable | Not applicable |
Method 1: Standard Device Upgrade (24-Month Contract)
Most Vodacom contracts are 24 months. You pay a monthly fee that covers airtime, data, and a portion of the device cost. At the end of the 24 months, you have paid off the device and can upgrade to a new one.
Standard upgrade window:
– You are eligible to upgrade in the last 3 months of your contract.
– That means from month 21 to month 24.
– You do not have to wait until the exact end date.
Example:
– You signed a contract on 1 March 2024.
– Your contract ends on 28 February 2026.
– You can upgrade from 1 December 2025.
How to check:
1. Dial 135 7# to check your contract end date.
2. Or log in to the MyVodacom app and view your contract details.
3. Or call 082 111 and ask a consultant.
Method 2: Early Upgrade Options
What if you want to upgrade before month 21? Maybe your phone is broken, or you simply cannot wait for the latest model. Vodacom offers early upgrade options, but they come with costs.
Option A: Pay the remaining device balance
– You can upgrade at any time if you settle the outstanding balance on your current device.
– Vodacom will calculate how much is still owed.
– You pay that amount, and you are free to start a new contract.
Example:
– You are in month 12 of a 24-month contract.
– Your device balance is R5,000.
– You pay R5,000, and you can upgrade immediately.
Option B: Trade-in your current device
– Vodacom offers trade-in programs where they assess your current phone and give you a credit toward a new one.
– The credit may reduce or eliminate the outstanding balance.
– Trade-in values depend on the phone’s condition, age, and model.
Option C: Upgrade Plus (if available)
– Vodacom sometimes offers “Upgrade Plus” promotions allowing upgrades after 12 or 18 months.
– These are limited-time offers and not always available.
– Check the MyVodacom app for personalized offers.
Method 3: Plan Upgrade Only (No New Device)
If you are happy with your phone but want more airtime or data, you can upgrade your plan at any time.
Rules for plan upgrades:
– You can upgrade to a more expensive plan immediately.
– You do not need to wait for any specific date.
– The new plan takes effect from your next billing cycle.
– You cannot downgrade to a cheaper plan during your contract term.
– Downgrades are only allowed at contract renewal.
How to upgrade your plan:
1. Log in to the MyVodacom app.
2. Go to “Shop” or “Plans”.
3. Select the new plan you want.
4. Confirm the change.
5. The new plan starts on your next billing date.
Method 4: Month-to-Month (Top-Up) Upgrades
If you are on a Top-Up plan (month-to-month), you are not locked into a fixed contract. You can upgrade or downgrade at any time.
Device upgrades on Top-Up:
– You are not paying off a device monthly.
– You can buy a new phone outright or on a separate device payment plan.
– You can also take a new 24-month contract on a device, which will lock you in again.
Plan changes on Top-Up:
– Change your plan at any time via the app.
– Changes take effect immediately or from the next billing cycle.
Method 5: Check Upgrade Eligibility Via USSD
Vodacom provides a simple USSD code to check your upgrade status.
Step-by-Step:
1. Open your phone dialler.
2. Dial 135 7#.
3. Press call.
4. You will receive an SMS with your contract details, including:
– Contract end date.
– Upgrade eligibility date.
– Outstanding device balance (if any).
Method 6: Check Upgrade Eligibility Via MyVodacom App
The MyVodacom app is the most comprehensive way to check upgrade options.
Step-by-Step:
1. Open the MyVodacom app.
2. Log in with your credentials.
3. Look for a section called “Upgrade” or “My Contract”.
4. The app will display:
– Your current contract end date.
– When you are eligible to upgrade.
– Any early upgrade offers available to you.
– Trade-in values for your current device.
You can also browse new devices and plans directly in the app and apply for an upgrade.
Method 7: Call Vodacom Customer Service
If you prefer speaking to a human, you can call Vodacom to discuss upgrade options.
Step-by-Step:
1. Dial 082 111 from any phone.
2. Follow the prompts to speak to a consultant.
3. Have your ID number and cellphone number ready.
4. Ask about your upgrade eligibility.
5. The consultant can provide:
– Your contract end date.
– Outstanding device balance.
– Current upgrade offers.
– Trade-in options.
What Happens If You Do Not Upgrade?
If you reach the end of your 24-month contract and do not upgrade, one of two things happens:
1. If you are on a contract with a device: Your contract continues on a month-to-month basis. You pay the same monthly fee, but you are no longer paying off a device. You are essentially overpaying for your airtime and data.
2. If you are on a SIM-only contract: Your contract continues month-to-month at the same rate. You can cancel or change at any time with 30 days notice.
In either case, you are not automatically upgraded. You must actively choose a new contract or device.
Should You Upgrade Or Wait?
Pros of upgrading as soon as eligible:
– You get the latest technology.
– Your new phone has a fresh battery.
– You have warranty coverage again.
– You can take advantage of trade-in values while your current phone still has value.
Cons of upgrading immediately:
– You start a new 24-month commitment.
– You may be paying more per month for the latest flagship.
– Your current phone might still be perfectly good.
Consider:
– Is your current phone meeting your needs?
– How much would the new phone cost monthly?
– Is there a compelling new feature you want?
– Can you afford the new monthly payment?
Common Questions, SEO FAQ Section
Can I upgrade my Vodacom contract online?
Yes. You can upgrade via the MyVodacom app or the Vodacom website. You can browse new devices, select a plan, and complete the upgrade without visiting a store.
Do I need to pay a deposit for an upgrade?
Sometimes. Vodacom may require a deposit based on your credit check and payment history. The amount varies by device and your credit profile.
What happens to my old phone when I upgrade?
You have options:
– Trade it in for credit toward your new phone.
– Keep it as a spare or give it to a family member.
– Sell it privately.
– Recycle it responsibly.
Can I keep my old number when I upgrade?
Yes. Your number stays with you. Upgrading does not change your mobile number.
Will my monthly payment increase when I upgrade?
Typically, yes. New phones are often more expensive than the ones they replace. Your monthly payment may increase depending on the device and plan you choose.
Can I downgrade to a cheaper plan during my contract?
No. You cannot downgrade to a cheaper plan during the fixed term of your contract. You can only upgrade to a more expensive plan.
What if I want to switch from contract to prepaid?
You can do this at the end of your contract. Contact Vodacom to arrange the switch. Any remaining device balance must be settled.
Can I upgrade if I have outstanding debt on my account?
No. All amounts owed must be paid before you can upgrade. This includes outstanding device balances, unpaid monthly fees, and any other charges.
How long does the upgrade process take?
If you upgrade online, the process takes about 10-15 minutes. Delivery of your new device takes 1-3 business days. In-store upgrades are immediate.
Can I upgrade to a different network?
That is called porting, not upgrading. You can port your number to another network at any time, but you must settle your Vodacom contract first.
Summary: When Can You Upgrade?
You can upgrade your Vodacom device:
– In the last 3 months of your 24-month contract.
– At any time if you pay the outstanding device balance.
– At any time if you take advantage of a special early upgrade promotion.
You can upgrade your Vodacom plan:
– At any time to a more expensive plan.
– Only at contract renewal to a cheaper plan.
You can check your upgrade eligibility:
– Via USSD: 135 7#
– Via MyVodacom app.
– By calling 082 111.
Final Warning: Read The Fine Print
Before upgrading, understand exactly what you are signing:
– What is the new monthly fee?
– How long is the new contract term?
– Is there a deposit required?
– What is the total cost of the device over the contract?
– Are there any once-off fees?
– What happens if you want to cancel early?
A new phone is exciting. A new contract is a commitment. Make sure you are comfortable with both.
Official Vodacom Support: 082 111 or www.vodacom.co.za
—
This guide was last updated for 2026 standards. Vodacom upgrade policies, eligibility criteria, and promotions are subject to change without notice. Always verify current information with Vodacom directly before making decisions.