Smartphones & Tablets

Start with how long you will keep it

The update policy decides how long a phone stays safe to use. Google promises seven years of Android and security updates for Pixel 8 and newer, and Samsung promises seven years for its recent Galaxy S flagships. Many mid-range and budget Android phones get far fewer, so check the brand's written policy for the exact model before you buy. iPhones have historically received iOS updates for several years after launch. If you plan to keep a phone for four years or more, a long, written update commitment matters more than a slightly better spec sheet.

The chip matters for the same reason: a faster processor stays comfortable as apps get heavier. For calls, messaging, UPI and social media, a current mid-range chip is enough. Heavy gaming, long 4K video recording and on-device AI features benefit from a flagship chip, which also tends to run cooler under sustained load.

Camera, battery and 5G

Megapixel counts say little about photo quality. Sensor size, optical image stabilisation (OIS) on the main camera, and a real telephoto lens (not a digital crop) make a bigger difference, especially at night and for portraits. Look at sample photos taken in low light before you decide.

For battery, compare battery capacity (mAh) only between phones with similar chips and screens, and look at independent battery-life tests where you can. Fast charging is convenient, but check whether the charger comes in the box.

In India, 5G runs mainly on n78 (3.5 GHz, used by both Jio and Airtel) and n28 (700 MHz, used by Jio for wider coverage, including indoors). Make sure the phone lists both bands. Imported or grey-market units sometimes miss n28.

Exchange your old phone instead of letting it sit in a drawer

A working phone has resale value that drops every few months, so it is worth exchanging it while you buy the new one. At SwapMyTech you can trade in a working phone and pay only the difference, or trade it in for Swap Credits, with doorstep verification in Bengaluru. Before you hand it over, back it up, sign out of your Apple or Google account and factory reset it. Our phone preparation guide walks through each step.