What Is the Cricket Wireless Phone Upgrade Eligibility Policy?
Cricket Wireless understands that some customers like to change their devices regularly and that some of them wish to always have the latest phone models with the most advanced features. Therefore, the popular American wireless service provider has made the upgrading process as simple as possible.
The first thing that each Cricket customer who wishes to upgrade his or her phone must know is that one can only upgrade a Cricket phone if they meet the company’s device upgrade eligibility policy. The Cricket device upgrade eligibility policy includes the following rules:
- In order to upgrade a Cricket phone, you must have an existing line of service with Cricket.
- You must have a Cricket monthly service plan that costs at least $30 a month.
- The upgrade phone must be new.
- The upgrade phone must be purchased from a Cricket store or online at cricketwireless.com/home.html.
- Each customer can only upgrade his or her phone once every 180 days.
- When upgrading your Cricket phone (either in a Cricket store or online), you will be required to pay a $25 device upgrade fee (unfortunately, it is not possible to upgrade your Cricket phone for free).
How Do Phone Upgrades Work?
There are two ways to upgrade your Cricket wireless phone. You can do it online at cricketwireless.com/myaccount.html#/login (to do so, you will need to log in to your Cricket account), or you can do it in a local Cricket Wireless store (find the nearest store at cricketwireless.com/stores.html).
To upgrade your phone, you must consider and follow three basic steps:
Review protection options
When upgrading your Cricket phone, consider protecting it. You will have the opportunity to add coverage for your new device with Cricket Protect. Cricket Protect will provide protection against loss, theft, and accidental damage (including water damage). This protection will provide you with peace of mind. However, not all phones are eligible for this protection plan. For example, certain certified pre-owned and less expensive phones are not eligible.
How to get the Cricket Protect feature? It’s simple!
- If you already have the Cricket Protection plan on your line and if your new device is eligible, you can keep the protection.
- In case you already have the Cricket Protection but your new device is not eligible, Cricket will automatically remove this protection option when you activate your new device.
- If you don’t have Cricket Protect yet, however, you wish to get it and your new phone is eligible, you can simply add it during the upgrade process.
Learn more at cricketwireless.com/support/protect-my-phone/cricket-protect.html.
Get a qualifying plan
In order to upgrade your device, you must be on a plan that costs at least $30 a month. In case you wish or need to change your plan, you can do so at cricketwireless.com/myaccount.html?route=changePlan#/changePlan after activating your new phone. Simply sign in to your account at cricketwireless.com/myaccount.html#/login or use the myCricket app to select your plan.
Activate your new phone
After receiving your new phone, you will be required to activate it. To do so, visit cricketwireless.com/activate.html. Before you activate the device, make sure to insert your new SIM card into the new phone. As soon as you activate your phone, you will be able to see or change your current plan and features online whenever you sign in to your Cricket account.
How to Upgrade My Cricket Phone?
Perhaps the simplest way to upgrade your Cricket phone is to do so online. The process is simple. All you have to do is to follow the instructions below:
- Step 1: Visit cricketwireless.com/myaccount.html?route=login#/login and sign in to your account.
- Step 2: Once you sign in, you will get to the Account Summary page. Scroll down to ‘Phone Numbers’ and press the blue arrow to the right of the line you wish to upgrade.
- Step 3: On the next page, scroll down to ‘Device’ and press ‘Upgrade Device’.
- Step 4: On the next page, review the information about the upgrade process.
- Step 5: Choose the option ‘Shop Smartphones’ to start shopping for a new phone.
- Step 6: Select the device you wish to purchase and add it to your card.
- Step 7: Review the insurance options.
- Step 8: In case you wish to buy some accessories, press the button ‘Accessories’ at the top. Add the desired items and press the ‘Cart’ icon to get back to the cart.
- Step 9: Review your cart and press ‘Check Out’. Review your contact information, billing/shipping address, and payment info. Agree to the terms and conditions and press ‘Continue’. Review the information once more and choose ‘Place Order’.
- Step 10: You will see the Receipt screen. Make sure to save the confirmation number. You will also receive a confirmation text message and email.
You can also upgrade your phone at a Cricket store:
- Step 1: Locate a Cricket store near you by visiting cricketwireless.com/stores and entering your ZIP code or city and state.
- Step 2: Visit the store and ask to speak to a sales rep or agent. Tell them you wish to upgrade your phone and they will walk you through the process.
Top 12 Cricket Wireless Upgrade Phones 2024
An upgrade phone is by definition a device that is better than your current device. It tends to be a more recent model with more advanced features. Depending on which phone model you may currently have, one of the following smartphone models may be a good fit for you. As long as the device is new (instead of pre-owned), you can buy any of the devices that are currently offered by Cricket as an upgrade phone.
Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max
When it comes to smartphones, Apple is one of the most reputable brands globally, known for its high-quality, durable, and feature-packed devices. The latest addition to Apple’s lineup is the Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max, released on September 22, 2023. Weighing 221g and with a thickness of 8.3mm, this device runs on iOS 17, upgradable to iOS 17.3. Available in 256GB, 512GB, or 1TB storage options, the iPhone 15 Pro Max boasts a stunning 6.7-inch OLED display with a resolution of 1290×2796 pixels. Equipped with a powerful 48MP camera system capable of recording 2160p videos, this model also features 8GB of RAM and is powered by the Apple A17 Pro chipset. With a robust 4441mAh Li-Ion battery, the iPhone 15 Pro Max delivers exceptional performance and is an excellent choice for those seeking a top-of-the-line smartphone experience.
Apple iPhone 15 Pro
When it comes to top-tier smartphones, Apple consistently delivers with its flagship models. The Apple iPhone 15 Pro, running on iOS 17 with the ability to upgrade to iOS 17.3, is a testament to Apple’s commitment to innovation. Released with storage options of 128GB, 256GB, or 1TB, this device offers ample space for all your needs. With a sleek design and weighing just 181g, the iPhone 15 Pro features a 6.1-inch OLED display with a resolution of 1179×2556 pixels, ensuring vibrant visuals. Its powerful 48MP camera system captures stunning images and records videos in 2160p resolution. Powered by the Apple A17 Pro chipset and equipped with 8GB of RAM, this device delivers smooth performance for all your tasks. Additionally, with a 3274mAh Li-Ion battery, the iPhone 15 Pro ensures long-lasting usage on a single charge, making it an excellent choice for users seeking a premium smartphone experience.
Apple iPhone 15 Plus
For those seeking a high-end smartphone experience, the Apple iPhone 15 Plus is a standout choice. Running on iOS 17 and upgradeable to iOS 17.3, this device offers seamless performance. Available with storage options of 128GB, 256GB, or 512GB, it provides ample space for your files and apps. Featuring a generous 6.7-inch OLED display with a resolution of 1290×2796 pixels, the iPhone 15 Plus delivers stunning visuals. Its impressive 48MP camera system captures detailed photos and records videos in 2160p resolution. Powered by the Apple A16 Bionic chipset and equipped with 6GB of RAM, this device ensures smooth multitasking. With a robust 4383mAh Li-Ion battery, the iPhone 15 Plus offers long-lasting battery life, making it an excellent choice for users who demand both power and performance in a smartphone.
Apple iPhone 15
The Apple iPhone 15 is a sleek and powerful device that runs on iOS 17, with the option to upgrade to iOS 17.3. With storage capacities ranging from 128GB to 512GB, it offers ample space for your apps, photos, and more. Its 6.1-inch OLED display with a resolution of 1179×2556 pixels provides vibrant visuals and immersive viewing experiences. Equipped with a 48MP camera, the iPhone 15 captures stunning photos and records videos in crisp 2160p resolution. Powered by the Apple A16 Bionic chipset and 6GB of RAM, this device ensures smooth performance and seamless multitasking. With a 3349mAh Li-Ion battery, the iPhone 15 offers reliable battery life for all-day use.
Samsung Galaxy S24
The Samsung Galaxy S24 is an impressive Android smartphone running on Android 14 with the intuitive One UI 6.1 overlay. Available in storage options of 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB, it offers ample space for your apps, media, and files, with no option for external storage. Featuring a 6.2-inch display with a resolution of 1080×2340 pixels, the Galaxy S24 delivers crisp and vibrant visuals for an immersive viewing experience. Its 50MP camera captures stunning photos and records videos in ultra-high 4320p resolution. With either 8GB or 12GB of RAM and powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset, this device ensures smooth performance and effortless multitasking. Equipped with a 4000mAh Li-Ion battery, the Galaxy S24 provides reliable battery life to keep you connected throughout the day.
Apple iPhone 14 Plus
The Apple iPhone 14 Plus runs on iOS 16, with the ability to upgrade to iOS 17.3, ensuring a seamless user experience. Available in storage capacities of 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB, it offers plenty of space for your apps, photos, and videos, without the option for expandable storage. Boasting a large 6.7-inch display with a resolution of 1284×2778 pixels, the iPhone 14 Plus delivers sharp and vibrant visuals for an immersive viewing experience. Its 12MP camera captures stunning photos and records videos in crisp 2160p resolution. With 6GB of RAM and powered by the Apple A15 Bionic chipset, this device delivers smooth performance and efficient multitasking. Equipped with a 4323mAh Li-Ion battery, the iPhone 14 Plus provides reliable battery life to keep you connected all day long.
Apple iPhone 14
The Apple iPhone 14 operates on iOS 16, with the option to upgrade to iOS 17.3, ensuring an efficient and intuitive user interface. With storage options ranging from 128GB to 512GB, users can store their apps, photos, and media without worrying about space, although there’s no provision for expandable storage. Its 6.1-inch display with a resolution of 1170×2532 pixels delivers crisp and clear visuals for an immersive viewing experience. The device features a 12MP camera capable of recording videos in stunning 2160p resolution, capturing memorable moments with clarity. With 6GB of RAM and powered by the Apple A15 Bionic chipset, the iPhone 14 offers smooth performance and efficient multitasking. Equipped with a 3279mAh Li-Ion battery, users can expect reliable battery life to keep them connected throughout the day.
Apple iPhone 13
The Apple iPhone 13 operates on iOS 15, with the option to upgrade to iOS 17.3, ensuring a seamless and user-friendly experience. With storage options ranging from 128GB to 512GB, users have ample space for their apps, photos, and media files, although there’s no support for expandable storage. Its 6.1-inch display boasts a resolution of 1170×2532 pixels, delivering vibrant and sharp visuals for an immersive viewing experience. The device features a 12MP camera capable of recording videos in stunning 2160p resolution, capturing memories with clarity and detail. With 4GB of RAM and powered by the Apple A15 Bionic chipset, the iPhone 13 offers smooth performance and efficient multitasking. Equipped with a 3240mAh Li-Ion battery, users can enjoy reliable battery life to stay connected throughout the day.
Samsung Galaxy S23 FE
The Samsung Galaxy S23 FE runs on the Android 13 operating system, with the option to upgrade to Android 14, complemented by the intuitive One UI 6 interface. Offering storage options of 128GB or 256GB, the device ensures ample space for apps, photos, and files, though it lacks support for expandable storage via a card slot. Its 6.4-inch display, with a resolution of 1080×2340 pixels, delivers vivid and crisp visuals for an immersive viewing experience. Equipped with a powerful 50MP camera capable of recording videos in stunning 4320p resolution, users can capture moments with exceptional clarity and detail. With 8GB of RAM and powered by the Exynos 2200 chipset, the Galaxy S23 FE delivers smooth performance and seamless multitasking. Sporting a robust 4500mAh Li-Ion battery, users can expect reliable battery life to keep them connected throughout the day.
Motorola Razr 5G
The Motorola Razr 5G operates on Android 10, with an upgrade path to Android 11, providing users with a modern and customizable interface. With a generous 256GB of storage onboard, there’s ample space for apps, photos, and media files, albeit without the option for expandable storage via a card slot. Its 6.2-inch display, boasting a resolution of 876×2142 pixels, offers crisp visuals for an immersive viewing experience. Equipped with a 48MP camera, capable of recording videos in 2160p resolution, users can capture moments with clarity and detail. With 8GB of RAM and powered by the Snapdragon 765G 5G chipset, the Razr 5G ensures smooth performance and efficient multitasking. Sporting a 2800mAh Li-Po battery, users can enjoy all-day connectivity on the go.
Samsung Galaxy A15 5G
The Samsung Galaxy A15 5G runs on the latest Android 14, with the intuitive One UI 6 overlay, providing users with a seamless and customizable experience. With storage options of 128GB or 256GB and expandable storage via microSDXC, users have ample space for apps, photos, and media files. Its 6.5-inch display, featuring a resolution of 1080×2340 pixels, offers vibrant visuals and immersive viewing. Equipped with a 50MP camera capable of capturing detailed photos and recording videos in 1080p resolution, users can preserve memories with clarity. The device comes with 4-8GB of RAM and is powered by the Dimensity 6100+ chipset, ensuring smooth performance and efficient multitasking. With a robust 5000mAh battery, users can enjoy extended usage without worrying about frequent recharges.
Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G (2023)
The Motorola Moto G Stylus 5G (2023) boasts the latest Android 13 OS, with a planned upgrade to Android 14, ensuring users stay up-to-date with the latest features and enhancements. With storage options of 128GB or 256GB and expandable storage via microSDXC, users have plenty of space to store their apps, photos, and media files. Its expansive 6.6-inch display, featuring a resolution of 1080×2400 pixels, delivers crisp visuals and immersive viewing experiences. Equipped with a powerful 50MP camera, capable of capturing detailed photos and recording videos in 2160p resolution, users can capture memories with clarity and precision. The device comes with 4GB or 6GB of RAM and is powered by the Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 chipset, ensuring smooth performance and seamless multitasking. With a substantial 5000mAh battery, users can enjoy extended usage without needing frequent recharges, making it an ideal companion for productivity on the go.
List of Other Cricket Wireless Upgrade Phones
The smartphone models mentioned above may be some of the best devices currently offered by Cricket Wireless. Nonetheless, the company also offers a large selection of other phones, all of which can be used as an upgrade phone, including:
- Apple iPhone SE 2022
- Apple iPhone 12
- Apple iPhone 11
- Samsung Galaxy A54 5G
- Cricket Debut Flex
- Cricket Icon 5
- Cricket Outlast
- Cricket Debut S2
- Motorola moto g play (2023)
- Cricket Magic 5G
- Motorola moto g stylus (2023)
- Samsung Galaxy A03s
- Motorola moto g 5G (2023)
- Samsung Galaxy A14 5G
- As well as all of the phone models mentioned in the previous section
However, as Cricket’s offered smartphone selection changes and updates regularly, make sure to view all the latest models at https://www.cricketwireless.com/prepaid-phones/smartphones. You can also see the current Cricket phone deals at https://www.cricketwireless.com/current-phone-and-plan-deals.
Does Cricket Charge an Upgrade Fee?
Are you planning to upgrade your Cricket device to a new model packed with amazing features and wondering “Can I upgrade my Cricket phone for free?” Well, sadly, the answer is no.
While you can upgrade your Cricket phone every 180 days, the upgrade is not completely free of charge. Instead, Cricket Wireless will charge you a $25 device upgrade fee. The upgrade fee applies for both in-store and online phone upgrades.
How to Upgrade Cricket Plans
In order to upgrade your Cricket phone, you will be required to have a plan that costs $30 a month or more.
If you don’t have a qualifying plan or if you wish to upgrade your Cricket plan for any other reason, you can do so online. Simply follow the instructions below:
- Step 1: Visit cricketwireless.com/myaccount.html?route=changePlan#.
- Step 2: Sign in to your account by entering your Cricket username and password. Press ‘Sign In’.
- Step 3: Select the plan you wish to use and purchase it.
You can also do the same at the myCricket app, which is available on both Google Play and App Store. Find out more about the app at cricketwireless.com/apps.html.
In case you also need information How To Replace Cricket Wireless Phone
How to Upgrade Cricket SIM
When you upgrade your phone, you will automatically receive a new SIM card, which you will be able to use with your new upgrade phone. As mentioned before, you will have to insert the new SIM into your new device before you activate it.
In case you wish to purchase a new Cricket SIM card because your old SIM card is lost or damaged, because you wish to switch to a device that uses a different SIM size, or for any other reason, you can do so both online and in the nearest Cricket store. To do so online, simply log in to your Cricket account and select a new SIM card.
If you need information Cricket SIM Card Replacement Guide
Cricket Wireless Upgrade Phones Related FAQs
What Do I Need in Order to Upgrade My Cricket Phone?
There are several things you need in order to upgrade your Cricket phone, including a current account with Cricket, a Cricket line of service, and a rate plan that costs at least $30 a month. In addition, you can only upgrade your Cricket phone once every 180 days and you will be required to pay a $25 fee.
Does Cricket Protect Cover My Upgraded Phone?
Cricket Protect is an insurance plan that covers old and upgraded phones in the event of loss, theft, and accidental damage. However, to protect your upgrade phone with this insurance plan, the device must be eligible (some older devices cannot be protected). In addition, you have to add this insurance when upgrading your phone.
How Much Does Cricket Charge to Change Phones?
You cannot upgrade your Cricket phone for free. Instead, you will be required to pay a $25 device upgrade fee (both in-store and online).
What Happens if You Lose Your Cricket Phone?
In case you lose your Cricket phone, the best thing to do is to suspend your service temporarily. If the lost phone is found, you can easily restore the service. However, you won’t get a credit or a refund for unused monthly service.
Does Cricket Offer Free Phones?
Yes. However, to get a free phone you must activate a plan and bring your number or meet any other requirements. Currently, Cricket offers these free phones:
- Samsung Galaxy A12
- Motorola moto g power
- Samsung Galaxy A03s
- Motorola moto g pure
- Samsung Galaxy A02s
- Motorola moto g play
- Cricket Ovation 2
- Cricket Debut
- Cricket Icon 3
Can I Put My Cricket SIM Card on Another Phone?
As long as your SIM card is the right size for the phone, you can easily place your Cricket SIM card on any phone. However, if the SIM card doesn’t fit, you can simply buy another one – online or in-store.
Does Cricket Wireless Provide Call History?
Yes, however, to get the phone records you have to send a subpoena asking for the records. You can contact the center for records at 1-800-635-6840. Keep in mind that you will be required to pay a fee.
Can I Use My Cricket SIM Card on an AT&T Phone?
Yes, Cricket and AT&T devices are compatible, therefore you can easily use your Cricket SIM card in an AT&T phone.