Thinking about upgrading your phone but not sure when to do it?
If you time it right, you can get significantly more value from your current device — but it’s not just about money.
Upgrading at the right time also means better performance, fewer issues, and a smoother day-to-day experience.
📅 The #1 rule: Upgrade before value drops
Phones don’t lose value slowly — they drop in chunks.
The biggest drop happens:
Right after a new model is released
Or, when phones no longer update to the latest iOS
Apple release cycle (what Kiwis should know)
Apple typically launches new iPhones around September each year, see: https://www.apple.com/nz/newsroom/
That means:
-
Older models drop in value almost immediately
-
Buyers start lowering their offers quickly
In NZ, that means:
Prices of older models drop almost immediately & trade-in values follow quickly.
Best time to upgrade (NZ sweet spot)
August – early September
Why?
Your phone still holds strong value
You beat the post-launch price drop
You can sell high, then upgrade
Worst time to upgrade
Right after a new release, at that point:
Everyone is selling
Buyers lower their offers
You get less cash in your pocket
Real example
Let’s say:
iPhone 13 in August → $600
Same phone in October → $450
That’s a big difference just for waiting too long.
What about Android phones?
Androids don’t follow one release cycle — but:
Value drops faster overall
Timing still matters
But timing isn’t everything — here’s when you should upgrade anyway:
Even outside of release cycles, there are clear signs it’s time to move on from your current phone
Your phones battery health matters
Once your battery drops below 80%, your phone not only struggles to last the day — it also loses resale value. Buyers look closely at battery condition, so waiting too long can cost you.
Your phone can get slow or glitchy
After 2–3 years, most phones start to lag, freeze, or struggle with newer apps and updates. That’s usually a sign your device is reaching the end of its optimal lifespan.
Network changes in NZ (3G shutdown & VoLTE)
In New Zealand, networks are phasing out 3G and moving fully to 4G and 5G with VoLTE.
If your phone isn’t compatible, you may run into:
Poor call quality
Dropped calls
Loss of service in some areas
Even if your phone still “works”, it might not work properly going forward.
How often should you upgrade?
For most people in NZ, the sweet spot is every 2–3 years
This helps you:
Keep your phone running smoothly
Avoid battery issues
Stay compatible with network updates
Sell your phone before it loses too much value
Why selling first is smarter
Most people:
Upgrade first and leave their old phone sitting in a drawer, that’s lost money.
Instead:
Sell your current phone & use the cash toward your upgrade
Keep it simple
If you’re upgrading this year:
Sell before the next release cycle hits & don’t overthink it.
At Twice:
Fast quotes
Same-day payment
No hassle, check out https://twice.nz/sell/to see how easy it is!
Our final word
Upgrading your phone at the right time isn’t just about getting more cash — it’s about avoiding frustration, staying connected, and keeping things running smoothly.
If you’re even thinking about upgrading, it’s a good idea to check what your current phone is worth now — before its value drops further.
👉 Get a quote today — we’ve got it handled.
One thought on “The Best Time to Upgrade Your Phone in NZ”
Comments are closed.