T-Mobile’s dropping support for some phones — how you can get a replacement (2024)

T-Mobile’s dropping support for some phones — how you can get a replacement (1)

As phone carriers evolve over time to accommodate new technology, certain phones will get left behind. And that’s what’s about to happen at T-Mobile, where the carrier is ready to drop support for nearly 20 phones, which means customers with those devices will have to upgrade.

There’s some good news, though. The devices on T-Mobile’s list are pretty old ones. And the carrier is apparently helping affected customers by offering a choice of new phones.

  • The best phone carriers: Where T-Mobile ranks
  • Best cheap phones for less than $400
  • Plus: OnePlus 9 Lite could be 2021’s Galaxy S20 FE killer

All of this results from T-Mobile dropping support for any phone that isn't capable of utilizing voice over LTE (VoLTE) service in January. According to Android Police, an internal document from T-Mobile lists 19 devices, including phones, tablets, and cameras that are on the chopping block for Jan. 29. Impact devices include the Samsung Galaxy Note Edge (AT&T and Verizon versions), Google Nexus 9, Huawei Mate 8, HTC Desire 10 Lifestyle and four different Sony Xperia Z3 variants.

Most of the devices on the list look to be at least 5 years old, so they’re due for an upgrade anyhow. And apparently, starting on Dec. 28, T-Mobile will be contacting customers who have those phones to let them know they can grab a free upgrade from the carrier.

Specifically, those customers will be able to replace their aging handset with a choice of Samsung Galaxy A21, Samsung Galaxy A11, Alcatel Go Flip 3, or the T-Mobile Revvl 4. Those phones aren’t exactly cutting edge, ranging in price from $100 to $250, but at least the onus won’t be on customers to grab their own upgrades.

The promotional period for free phone upgrades officially began yesterday (Dec. 24. However, not every customer will be eligible for the free upgrade. If you're going to be impacted, it's worth contacting your T-Mobile store or representative and asking whether you'll be able to get in on the promotion.

Some customers may instead receive offers that take $150 off of new phones, should they decide to buy a new device from T-Mobile. Reports indicate that T-Mobile employees have been advised to "stay tuned" for additional offers that will be "specifically targeted" to impacted customers.

Get the BEST of Tom’s Guide daily right in your inbox: Sign up now!

Upgrade your life with the Tom’s Guide newsletter. Subscribe now for a daily dose of the biggest tech news, lifestyle hacks and hottest deals. Elevate your everyday with our curated analysis and be the first to know about cutting-edge gadgets.

Android Police reports that, according to T-Mobile, this promotion isn't tied to its ending support for non-VoLTE devices, though it seems awfully convenient given that certain customers with said phones are being targeted for upgrades. T-Mobile hasn’t yet made an official announcement regarding the upgrade program just yet, nor has it confirmed which customers will be eligible.

T-Mobile’s dropping support for some phones — how you can get a replacement (2)

Brittany Vincent

Brittany Vincent has been covering video games and tech for over 13 years for publications including Tom's Guide, MTV, Rolling Stone, CNN, Popular Science, Playboy, IGN, GamesRadar, Polygon, Kotaku, Maxim, and more. She's also appeared as a panelist at video game conventions like PAX East and PAX West and has coordinated social media for companies like CNET. When she's not writing or gaming, she's looking for the next great visual novel in the vein of Saya no Uta. You can follow her on Twitter @MolotovCupcake.

More about network carriers

Super Bowl 2024 — how Verizon got Las Vegas ready for the biggest game of the yearGet a free $200 Target gift card with Verizon's 5G Home Plus Internet

Latest

Horizon Forbidden West on PC is one of the best-looking games ever — but I’m having two major issues with it
See more latest►

No comments yetComment from the forums

    Most Popular
    The next blockbuster PS5 exclusive is getting a free demo — here’s how to play

    By Rory Mellon

    Anime fans rejoice — Netflix is adding 6 top-tier anime titles you can stream

    By Dave LeClair

    New iPad Pro 2024 design upgrade just leaked

    By Alyse Stanley

    Forget GarageBand — new Google AI tool lets you make music with any instrument you describe and I tried it

    By Ryan Morrison

    Apple's magical ‘Presto' can update your new iPhone’s software in store without even opening the box — here’s how

    By Tom Pritchard

    Sonos Roam 2 reportedly coming in June — 3 biggest upgrades

    By Lee Dunkley

    iOS 18 could allow you to put apps anywhere on your home screen — what we know

    By Josh Render

    Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 could get RAM, display and battery upgrades — but its chips could spell trouble

    By Richard Priday

    iPhone 16 three major upgrades just leaked — and it's all about AI

    By Tom Pritchard

    Google is testing generative AI in its main search results — here's what we know

    By Ryan Morrison

    5 movies like 'Poor Things' to stream right now

    By Josh Bell

    T-Mobile’s dropping support for some phones — how you can get a replacement (2024)

    FAQs

    Can I go to T-Mobile and get a replacement phone? ›

    To claim a warranty replacement, contact T-Mobile support or visit a store. You may need to provide proof of purchase and describe the issue.

    Can I exchange my T-Mobile phone for a different one? ›

    T-Mobile will gladly assist you with your return. You can return or exchange a Device or accessory (“Device”) for a refund within 14 days of the purchase or lease date of the original Device.

    How long does it take for T-Mobile to replace a phone? ›

    Once a claim is approved, your replacement device will be shipped overnight, at no charge where available, for delivery within one to two business days. Claim approvals may take up to several days depending on the type of claim and timely receipt of all needed documentation. Holidays may impact shipping times.

    How do I fix dropped calls on T-Mobile? ›

    Dropped calls
    1. For calls dropping only in specific locations, check out our 4G LTE & 5G Network coverage map to determine the level of signal you should expect.
    2. Make sure that the touch screen isn't waking up during the call. ...
    3. Remove any cases or covers from the phone. ...
    4. Update the device software to the latest version.

    How much is a replacement phone from T-Mobile? ›

    from a T-Mobile® store when you buy a new device or upgrade, you can get it replaced in-store at no additional cost. There's no limit on hardware service (mechanical breakdown) claims.

    How often can you get a new phone with T-Mobile? ›

    Yearly Upgrade overview

    Yearly Upgrade is an upgrade program that allows you to upgrade as soon as every year. If you aren't on the Yearly Upgrade program yet, you will need to switch to an eligible plan that includes Yearly Upgrade.

    How does T-Mobile phone exchange work? ›

    Once you complete your purchase, we'll ship your new device. You'll also receive a link for a prepaid shipping label to send in your trade-in device. At this point, you still have the choice to return the device to a T-Mobile retail store or ship us your old device within 30 days of receiving your new device.

    What is the T-Mobile Exchange policy? ›

    Purchased at a T-Mobile store

    Return your device at any T-Mobile store within 14 days. Bring proof of purchase such as an emailed or printed receipt. Bring the device, USB charging cable, and any accessories you'll need to return.

    How does the T-Mobile 800$ credit work? ›

    You must unlock device before port-out; ask us how. Device balance (incl. lease purchase option) up to $800 paid by virtual prepaid Mastercard (no cash access & expires in 6 months) which you can use online or in-store via accepted mobile payment apps, typically within 15 days. Tax excluded.

    What is T-Mobile's buyer's remorse policy? ›

    If you are within 14 days you can return the phone and get your money back minus any restocking fees and only pay for the service used in that period of time. If you are past that point the phones are yours and cannot be returned. You would need to pay any outstanding balance in full at time of canceling.

    Can I trade in a broken phone? ›

    Yes, many trade-in programs accept phones with cracked screens, but the trade-in value may be lower. Assess repair costs versus potential trade-in value to determine if it's more economical to fix the screen before trading in used phone. Check specific trade-in program requirements for details.

    When should you replace a phone? ›

    Signs It Is Time To Upgrade to a New Phone

    Dwindling battery life. Cracked screen or physical damage. Unresponsive or delayed touchscreen. Out of storage space.

    Why does my phone drop certain calls? ›

    What causes dropped calls? A dropped call happens when your phone gets disconnected from the cellular network. This is pretty common, and there are a few possible causes, from weak signal strength or faulty SIM cards.

    Why is my cell phone suddenly dropping calls? ›

    There are several reasons for a cell phone dropping calls. Your phone is malfunctioning. There is a technical problem with your SIM card. There is an issue with the tower handoff, i.e., your phone failed to connect to the nearest cell tower while you were on the move.

    Why does my cell service keep dropping? ›

    Inclement weather like rain, dust, or fog also blocks signals. Additionally, your home, other buildings and structures, electrical wires, and vehicles reduce signal strength, especially if you live in an urban area. Any of these may be the reason your phone keeps dropping calls.

    Is it free to upgrade your phone with T-Mobile? ›

    Once you upgrade to a new phone, have it for at least 6 months and have paid half of the device cost, we'll pay off what you owe when you trade in your phone (in good condition), and you can upgrade to a new one!

    How to get Iphone replaced under warranty? ›

    Go to apple support center , Tell them the problems you are facing with your device calmly. If they feel problem is genuine and it occurrd due to manufacturing defect ,then they will replace your device within a week.

    Top Articles
    Latest Posts
    Article information

    Author: Msgr. Benton Quitzon

    Last Updated:

    Views: 6661

    Rating: 4.2 / 5 (43 voted)

    Reviews: 90% of readers found this page helpful

    Author information

    Name: Msgr. Benton Quitzon

    Birthday: 2001-08-13

    Address: 96487 Kris Cliff, Teresiafurt, WI 95201

    Phone: +9418513585781

    Job: Senior Designer

    Hobby: Calligraphy, Rowing, Vacation, Geocaching, Web surfing, Electronics, Electronics

    Introduction: My name is Msgr. Benton Quitzon, I am a comfortable, charming, thankful, happy, adventurous, handsome, precious person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.