O2 Switch Up UK

Swap Your Phone Whenever You Want - At No Extra Charge

With O2 Switch Up, you're never stuck with an old phone. Upgrade to the latest devices whenever you like, with no early termination fees or hidden costs. It's the flexible way to always have the newest technology.

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What is O2 Switch Up?

O2 Switch Up is a revolutionary phone upgrade programme exclusive to O2 customers in the United Kingdom. Unlike traditional mobile contracts that lock you in for 24 or 36 months with the same device, Switch Up gives you the freedom to swap your phone whenever you feel like a change.

Whether you want the latest iPhone release, the newest Samsung Galaxy, or a different brand entirely, Switch Up lets you make the swap without paying off your remaining device plan. Simply return your current phone in good condition and choose your new device - it's that simple.

The service launched as O2's answer to the growing demand for flexibility in mobile contracts. With technology advancing rapidly and new phones releasing every year, customers no longer want to wait years between upgrades. Switch Up solves this problem by building upgrade flexibility directly into your O2 plan.

90 Days Until First Swap
0 Extra Fees to Switch
100+ Eligible Devices
Unlimited Number of Swaps

O2 Switch Up Benefits

Switch Up offers significant advantages over traditional phone contracts, giving you flexibility, value, and peace of mind.

O2 Switch Up Benefits Infographic showing four main advantages: Swap Anytime for flexibility, No Extra Cost for free upgrades, Latest Phones for newest devices, and Eco-Friendly for sustainability
The four main benefits of O2 Switch Up for UK customers
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Swap Whenever You Want

After your initial 90-day period, you can swap your phone as often as you like. There's no limit to how many times you can upgrade, and no waiting for contract end dates. See a new phone you love? Simply swap to it.

  • No fixed upgrade dates
  • Swap after just 90 days
  • Unlimited switches allowed
  • Keep your current plan and number
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No Extra Charges

Unlike other upgrade schemes that charge early termination fees or require you to pay off your device, O2 Switch Up is included in your plan. There are no hidden costs or surprise charges when you decide to swap phones.

  • No early termination fees
  • No device payoff required
  • No admin or processing charges
  • Simply return and swap
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Access to Latest Phones

Always have the newest technology in your pocket. Switch Up gives you access to flagship devices from Apple, Samsung, Google, and other major manufacturers as soon as they're released on O2.

  • Latest iPhone models available
  • Newest Samsung Galaxy devices
  • Google Pixel and other flagships
  • New releases added regularly
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Environmentally Friendly

When you swap your phone with Switch Up, your old device is either refurbished for resale or responsibly recycled. This reduces electronic waste and gives your old phone a second life, making it a greener choice.

  • Devices are refurbished or recycled
  • Reduces electronic waste
  • Supports circular economy
  • Certified data wiping for security
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How O2 Switch Up Works

Getting started with Switch Up is straightforward. Here's a step-by-step guide to swapping your phone with O2.

Step-by-step guide showing how O2 Switch Up works: Step 1 Sign Up for an eligible plan, Step 2 Wait 90 days, Step 3 Choose your new phone, Step 4 Return old device and complete swap
Four simple steps to swap your phone with O2 Switch Up
1

Sign Up for a Switch Up Plan

When getting a new phone from O2, choose a plan that includes Switch Up. Look for the Switch Up badge on eligible devices and tariffs. You can sign up online, in-store at any O2 shop, or over the phone with O2 customer service.

Tip: Switch Up is available on most flagship devices and premium tariffs. Ask an O2 advisor to confirm eligibility before signing up.

2

Wait for Your Eligibility Period

After receiving your new phone, you'll need to wait 90 days before you can make your first swap. This initial period ensures the service works for customers who genuinely want flexibility, not just a quick device change.

Note: During this period, you can use your phone normally and take advantage of all O2 services and features.

3

Choose Your New Phone

Once you're past the 90-day mark, browse the available Switch Up devices and pick your new phone. You can choose any eligible device - whether it's the latest iPhone, Samsung Galaxy, or another smartphone. Your monthly payment may adjust based on the new device value.

Important: Check the O2 website or visit a store to see the current selection of Switch Up eligible phones.

4

Return Your Old Phone and Complete the Swap

Return your current phone to O2 in good working condition. You can do this in-store or by post using the prepaid packaging O2 provides. Once your old device is received and inspected, your new phone is dispatched or handed over, and your new plan begins.

Checklist before returning: Back up your data, remove your SIM card, sign out of all accounts (especially Apple ID or Google), and perform a factory reset.

O2 Switch Up Eligible Phones

Switch Up is available on a wide range of premium smartphones. Here are some of the popular devices you can swap to:

Apple iPhone

The latest iPhone models are always available through Switch Up, including:

  • iPhone 15 Pro Max - Apple's flagship with titanium design
  • iPhone 15 Pro - Pro features in a compact size
  • iPhone 15 Plus - Large display, all-day battery
  • iPhone 15 - Dynamic Island and USB-C
  • iPhone 14 series - Still available at lower prices

Samsung Galaxy

Samsung's flagship Galaxy devices are popular Switch Up choices:

  • Galaxy S24 Ultra - AI features and S Pen included
  • Galaxy S24+ - Premium performance and display
  • Galaxy S24 - Flagship experience, compact size
  • Galaxy Z Fold5 - Foldable tablet-phone hybrid
  • Galaxy Z Flip5 - Stylish flip phone design

Other Brands

Switch Up includes devices from other popular manufacturers:

  • Google Pixel 8 Pro - Best-in-class camera AI
  • Google Pixel 8 - Pure Android experience
  • Sony Xperia - Professional camera features
  • OnePlus - Fast charging and smooth performance
  • More devices added as they launch

Please note: Device availability changes regularly. Some devices may have limited stock or may not be available at all times. Visit your nearest O2 store or check o2.co.uk for the current list of Switch Up eligible phones.

O2 Switch Up Requirements & Conditions

To ensure a smooth swap experience, your phone must meet certain conditions when you return it:

Phone Must Be:

  • In good working condition
  • Able to power on and off normally
  • Free from water damage
  • Factory reset with accounts signed out
  • Free from activation locks
  • Returned with original charging cable

Acceptable Wear:

  • Minor scratches on body or screen
  • Small scuffs on edges or corners
  • Normal signs of everyday use
  • Light marks that don't affect function

Not Acceptable:

  • Cracked or shattered screen
  • Bent or warped body
  • Water or liquid damage
  • Non-functional buttons or ports
  • Missing components
  • Device locked to iCloud or Google

What Happens If My Phone Doesn't Meet Requirements?

If your phone has damage beyond acceptable wear, you may need to pay a damage fee before completing the swap. The fee varies depending on the type and severity of damage. O2 will assess your device and inform you of any charges before proceeding.

To avoid damage fees, consider using a protective case and screen protector throughout your phone's life.

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O2 Switch Up vs Traditional Contracts

Understanding the difference between Switch Up and standard phone contracts helps you make the right choice.

Feature O2 Switch Up Traditional Contract
Upgrade Frequency Anytime after 90 days Every 24-36 months
Early Upgrade Fee None Pay remaining device cost
Latest Phone Access Immediate when released Wait until contract ends
Flexibility Swap as often as you like Fixed term commitment
Monthly Cost May be slightly higher Fixed monthly payment
Phone Ownership Return device when swapping Keep phone after contract
Best For Tech enthusiasts who want latest devices Those happy with one phone for years

O2 Switch Up Frequently Asked Questions

How much does O2 Switch Up cost?

O2 Switch Up is included in eligible plans at no additional upfront cost. However, plans with Switch Up may have a slightly higher monthly payment compared to standard contracts. The exact cost depends on the phone you choose and your selected data allowance. There are no fees when you actually make a swap.

Can I switch to any phone with Switch Up?

You can switch to any phone that's currently available on the Switch Up programme. This includes most flagship devices from Apple, Samsung, Google, and other manufacturers. Budget or mid-range phones may not always be included. Check the current eligible devices list on o2.co.uk or ask in-store.

What happens to my old phone when I switch?

When you swap phones with Switch Up, your old device is returned to O2. The phone is then assessed and either refurbished for resale as a certified pre-owned device, or responsibly recycled if it can't be refurbished. All your data is securely wiped during this process.

Can I keep my phone number when I switch?

Yes, absolutely. When you swap phones with Switch Up, you keep your existing O2 phone number, your O2 account, and your airtime plan continues. You simply move your SIM (or eSIM) to the new device. Nothing changes except your phone.

Is there a limit to how many times I can switch?

There is no official limit to the number of times you can swap phones with Switch Up. After each swap, you simply need to wait another 90 days before you're eligible to switch again. Theoretically, you could swap phones up to 4 times per year.

Can I add Switch Up to my existing O2 contract?

Switch Up must be selected when you start a new phone plan or upgrade to a new device. It cannot be added to an existing contract mid-term. If you want Switch Up, you'll need to wait until your current contract ends, or upgrade early by paying any remaining device costs.

What if I don't want to switch - can I keep my phone?

Yes. Switch Up gives you the option to swap, but you're never required to do so. If you're happy with your phone, you can keep it for the full contract term. At the end of your contract, you can then choose to keep the phone, start a new plan, or leave O2 - just like a traditional contract.

Where can I make a Switch Up swap?

You can complete a Switch Up swap at any O2 retail store across the UK, online through your My O2 account, or by calling O2 customer service. In-store swaps allow you to get your new phone immediately, while online/phone swaps involve posting your old device and receiving the new one by delivery.

Ready to Switch Up?

Visit your nearest O2 store to learn more about Switch Up, see eligible phones in person, and get expert advice from our advisors on whether Switch Up is right for you.

Find Your Nearest O2 Store