Many of the users these days are on a 'pay monthly' deal whereby they get a free or nearly free phone along with wonderful discounts such as free text messages, free calling minutes and/or free Internet data usage. All these offers entice the users to subscribe to a certain network provider. They have a contract length which can be 12 months, 18 months or 24 months. Just before the contract is about to expire or if the contract has already expired then you're eligible for an upgrade. The upgrade entitles the individual to keep the number, get 10% off on some plans (Orange), no credit check or no deposits are required and you can get a new mobile phone when you complete the upgrade. For upgrading, you have to be a 'pay monthly' or 'contract' user and not on a pay as you go deal. Also, you cannot upgrade from one network provider to another but on the very same network. Currently the upgrades are not available on every network but only on Orange, 3, T-Mobile. These upgrades help you in getting your call rates slashed, earning plenty of gifts and also getting a latest handset when the deal is over and done with.