Ask the Techspert: Upgrading Your Phone Made Easy

If your phone’s battery does not last a full day, apps take forever to load, or you keep receiving a memory warning alert, you might be due for a phone upgrade. While the thought of switching phones might seem daunting, more often than not, in reality, it can be surprisingly smooth and rewarding. In this article, I cover tips to make your phone switch transition stress-free.

How to Choose a New Phone?

With so many options flooding the market, it can be intimidating to pick one you will use for the next few years. Each brand comes with something unique and many models to choose from. To make things easier, when it comes to choosing your new phone, you have two options:

1. Stick with the familiar: In the smartphone world, two operating systems dominate the market: iOS (iPhone) and Android (Samsung, LG, Motorola, etc.). Sticking with the same operating system can minimize the learning curve and make the transition virtually effortless. For example, if you’re still using an iPhone 10 from 2017, upgrading to the new iPhone 16 will be relatively easy. This option is for anyone who wants the most straightforward and stress-free phone transition.
2. Explore Your Options: Phone manufacturers like Samsung, Apple, and Google are constantly innovating and releasing new products each year. Feel free to explore different brands and models. Although this option comes with a learning curve, it’s not steep. In general, all smartphones offer similar capabilities. However, if you decide to go this route, visit a store and get hands-on experience with the device before committing. This option is best suited for those who enjoy exploring the latest features and staying on the cutting edge.

What About My Precious Data?

One of the main reasons people hesitate to upgrade their phones is the fear of losing precious photos, texts, apps, and other data. In today’s world, however, this fear is largely unfounded. Most phone manufacturers have made transferring all your data from your old phone to the new one easier than ever. They offer the following options:

• Wireless transfer: Many phone brands offer built-in features that allow you to transfer all your data—including photos, messages, contacts, calendar info, and even apps (if available)—from your old phone to your new one. This is the quickest and easiest method for transferring data and works seamlessly when sticking with the same phone brand. Since 2015, iPhones have incorporated the Move to iOS app, which allows Android devices to transfer all their data to new iPhones. In 2022, Android introduced the Switch to Android app, enabling users to do the same when switching from iPhone to Android.
• Google Services: For Android users, Google’s cloud services—such as Gmail, Google Contacts, Google Photos, Google Drive, and Google Calendar—integrate seamlessly with iPhones. Simply sign into your Google account on the new iPhone, and your contacts, calendars, and emails will be automatically synced.
  

  Check out Senior Planet online classes and tech video tips on Google services.

• Transfer via Computer: This is a slightly more complex option, suited for transferring data from older phones (over 9 years old) to a new one, regardless of the brand. In this method, both the old and new phones are connected to the same computer, and you follow the instructions provided by your phone manufacturer. I highly recommend doing this process with the help of tech support at the store where you purchased the device.
• Ask for help: When upgrading your phone, don’t just buy it online—visit a phone manufacturer store (like Samsung or Apple) or your carrier’s store. This ensures you have tech support to help transfer your data before you leave, so you’re ready to enjoy your new phone immediately.

What to Do with the Old Phone?

Hanging on to your old phone after upgrading often leads to unnecessary clutter. Instead, consider the following options:

• Trade-In: Want a discount on your new device? Trade in your old phone when upgrading. Major phone manufacturers accept trade-ins, even from different brands. While the trade-in value is typically much lower than what you paid for the device, it’s still better than letting your old phone gather dust in a drawer. Keep in mind that some phone models may not be eligible for trade-in.
• Recycle: If trading in isn’t an option, recycling is your next best choice. Apple, Samsung, Walmart, and Best Buy all accept devices for recycling.

Either way, before you give up your old device, ensure it is factory reset. For iPhone users, check this Apple support page for a detailed step-by-step guide on resetting your phone. For Android users, this Verge article covers the same process.

Getting to Know Your New Phone

Congratulations on upgrading your phone! Now, it’s time to get familiar with your new device. Don’t be afraid to explore and experiment. Take some time to learn about its features and settings to make the most of your new phone.

Here are some upcoming Senior Planet online classes that can help you quickly get up to speed with your new companion:

• Getting to Know Your iPhone Demo – Fri, Nov. 22 at 2:00pm EST
• Getting to Know Your Android Demo – Fri, Nov. 22 at 3:00pm EST
• Cloud Storage class – Wed, Nov. 27, at 12:30pm EST

Things to keep in mind

• Some apps may not be available when switching between iPhone and Android.
• Don’t be intimidated by the high prices of newer phones. Many carriers offer promotions that include free smartphones when you switch and pay-over-time financing plans.
• Upgrading your phone is essential for enhanced security, faster connectivity, better battery life, improved performance, and more. You should do so every 3-5 years.

Need help with your smartphone? Senior Planet is offering free virtual 1-on-1 tech tutoring sessions! You can receive personalized help with your technology-related questions from Senior Planet volunteers. These sessions will take place over Zoom. To sign up for an appointment, call the Senior Planet Hotline at 888-713-3495 or visit here to register. 

Your Turn

Are you due for a phone upgrade? Share the brand and model you’d like to try in the comments!

Techspert Jonathan is Senior Planet’s Sr. Digital Community Relations and Product Specialist and a former Senior Planet San Antonio technology trainer. He is also an iOS developer with a background in Information Systems and Cyber Security.

Have a tech question that’s got you stumped? Send your tech questions to Techspert Jonathan using THIS FORM. He’ll be tackling one question a month from readers.