- What is Optus Upgrade and Protect?
- Am I eligible for Optus Upgrade and Protect?
- How does Optus Upgrade and Protect work?
- Phones available on the Optus network
- Is Optus Upgrade and Protect a good deal?
- How does Optus Upgrade and Protect compare to Telstra and Vodafone?
- How does Optus Upgrade and Protect compare to AppleCare?
- Alternatives to phone insurance
- Optus Upgrade and Protect FAQs
For Optus customers who have clumsy fingers or may just want to upgrade early, the telco has said 'yes' to a convenient insurance-like service designed to help customers easily trade up their device. But is it worth it? And how does it compare to other offerings on the market? Keep reading to find out.
What is Optus Upgrade and Protect?
Optus Upgrade and Protect is a recurring $15 per month "phone insurance" subscription service allowing customers to upgrade a device for less during their device's payment plan.
Upgrade and Protect lets you trade in your current phone - that you're currently in the middle of paying off - for a new device. This can be because it's broken, or because you've decided to upgrade early.
But note, once you choose to redeem this offer, Optus will immediately sign you up to a new plan. This means you will once again be committed to between 12 and 36 months.
This offer is available to eligible customers who purchase from a select range of mobile phones or tablets on an Optus device payment plan through OptusPay and pay monthly for this additional service.
Am I eligible for Optus Upgrade and Protect?
Here are a list of the eligibility requirements that apply to signing up for Optus Upgrade and Protect:
- Customers must be on the Optus network and only pay for their device through selected 12-, 24-, or 36-month device payment plans
- The purchase of an upgraded device is subject to the outcome of a credit assessment
- One add-on per service at a time
For customers who are upgrading on the Optus Upgrade and Protect service, they must:
- Return their old device
- Pay a fee if either (a) the customer has more than 12 months remaining on their device repayments or (b) the device is deemed not in good working order following Optus' device assessment
- Have the device backed up to easily transfer data to the new device
- Not have replaced or upgraded their device in the last 30 days
How does Optus Upgrade and Protect work?
Customers on a 12-, 24-, or 36-month payment plan with Optus who also pay for the Optus Upgrade and Protect subscription service that meet the above criteria can simply contact Optus or head into an Optus retail store with their device to begin the upgrade process.
If upgrading in-store, a completed device assessment via the Optus Device Check app within the last week will need to be provided. Otherwise, for upgrades via Optus' contact centre, a few questions will be asked to complete the device assessment once contact is made and the process has begun. An estimate of the fee you may need to pay will be provided when redeeming the upgrade, however, the final fee will only be determined after the device has been physically examined.
Here's a breakdown of how the fees work, depending on the results of a device assessment:
| Device conditions | Time left on device plan | Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Is in good working condition | Less than 12 months | $0 |
| Is in good working condition | 12 months or more | $99 |
| Isn't in good working condition | N/A | $249 ($99 early upgrade fee waived) |
Once a customer redeems their Upgrade and Protect offering, they will be signed up to a new device and a new plan. Any additional fees will be applied to the customer's next invoice.
Phones available on the Optus network
Here's a snapshot of the 5G devices you can buy on a plan right now:
iPhone 16 128GB
- 6.1 inch display
- Rear Cameras: 48MP, 12MP
- Front Camera: 12MP
iPhone 16 256GB
- 6.1 inch display
- Rear Cameras: 48MP, 12MP
- Front Camera: 12MP
iPhone 16 Plus 128GB
- 6.7 inch display
- Rear Cameras: 48MP, 12MP
- Front Camera: 12MP
iPhone 16 Plus 256GB
- 6.7 inch display
- Rear Cameras: 48MP, 12MP
- Front Camera: 12MP
iPhone 16 Pro 128GB
- 6.3 inch display
- Rear Cameras: 48MP, 12MP, 48MP
- Front Camera: 12MP
iPhone 16 512GB
- 6.1 inch display
- Rear Cameras: 48MP, 12MP
- Front Camera: 12MP
iPhone 16 Pro 256GB
- 6.3 inch display
- Rear Cameras: 48MP, 12MP, 48MP
- Front Camera: 12MP
iPhone 16 Plus 512GB
- 6.7 inch display
- Rear Cameras: 48MP, 12MP
- Front Camera: 12MP
iPhone 16 Pro Max 256GB
- 6.9 inch display
- Rear Cameras: 48MP, 12MP, 48MP
- Front Camera: 12MP
iPhone 16 Pro 512GB
- 6.3 inch display
- Rear Cameras: 48MP, 12MP, 48MP
- Front Camera: 12MP
Galaxy S25 256GB
- 6.2 inch display
- Rear Cameras: 50MP, 10MP, 12MP
- Front Camera: 12MP
Galaxy S25 512GB
- 6.2 inch display
- Rear Cameras: 50MP, 10MP, 12MP
- Front Camera: 12MP
Galaxy S25+ 256GB
- 6.7 inch display
- Rear Cameras: 50MP, 10MP, 12MP
- Front Camera: 12MP
Galaxy S25+ 512GB
- 6.7 inch display
- Rear Cameras: 50MP, 10MP, 12MP
- Front Camera: 12MP
Galaxy S25 Ultra 256GB
- 6.9 inch display
- Rear Cameras: 200MP, 10MP, 50MP, 50MP
- Front Camera: 12MP
Galaxy S25 Ultra 512GB
- 6.9 inch display
- Rear Cameras: 200MP, 10MP, 50MP, 50MP
- Front Camera: 12MP
Galaxy S25 Ultra 1TB
- 6.9 inch display
- Rear Cameras: 200MP, 10MP, 50MP, 50MP
- Front Camera: 12MP
Galaxy Z Flip6 5G 256GB
- 6.7 inch display
- Android 14
- 5G Capable
Galaxy Z Flip6 5G 512GB
- 6.7 inch display
- Android 14
- 5G Capable
Galaxy Z Fold6 5G 256GB
- 7.6 inch display
- Android 14
- 5G Capable
Pixel 9a 5G 128GB
- 6.3 inch display
- Rear Cameras: 48MP, 13MP
- Front Camera: 13MP
Pixel 9 128GB
- 6.3 inch display
- Rear Cameras: 50MP, 48MP
- Front Camera: 10.5MP
Pixel 9a 5G 256GB
- 6.3 inch display
- Rear Cameras: 48MP, 13MP
- Front Camera: 13MP
Pixel 9 Pro 128GB
- 6.3 inch display
- Rear Cameras: 48MP, 50MP, 48MP
- Front Camera: 42MP
Pixel 9 Pro Fold 256GB
- 8 inch display
- Rear Cameras: 48MP, 10.5MP, 10.8MP
- Front Camera: 10MP
Pixel 9 Pro 256GB
- 6.3 inch display
- Rear Cameras: 48MP, 50MP, 48MP
- Front Camera: 42MP
Pixel 9 Pro XL 128GB
- 6.8 inch display
- Rear Cameras: 48MP, 50MP, 48MP
- Front Camera: 42MP
Pixel 8a 5G 128GB
- 6.1 inch display
- Rear Cameras: 64MP, 13MP
- Front Camera: 13MP
Pixel 9 Pro XL 256GB
- 6.8 inch display
- Rear Cameras: 48MP, 50MP, 48MP
- Front Camera: 42MP
Pixel 9 256GB
- 6.3 inch display
- Rear Cameras: 50MP, 48MP
- Front Camera: 10.5MP
A71 5G
- 6.52 inch display
- Rear Cameras: 16MP, 5MP, 2MP
- Front Camera: 8MP
Find X5 Lite
- 6.43 inch display
- Rear Cameras: 64MP, 8MP, 2MP
- Front Camera: 32MP
A54 5G
- 6.5 inch display
- Rear Cameras: 48MP, 8MP, 2MP, 2MP
- Front Camera: 16MP
Nubia Focus 5G
- 6.6 inch display
- Rear Cameras: 108MP, 2MP
- Front Camera: 5MP
Is Optus Upgrade and Protect a good deal?
For customers who cannot afford to buy a phone outright and have no qualms staying on the Optus network, Optus Upgrade and Protect may sound like a good deal. But when you do the math, customers really are paying close to double for a device they don't even get to keep. Whether this deal is right for you, however, depends on a case-by-case basis. There are quite a few factors to consider because each person's phone usage and needs are different.
Here are some reasons Optus Upgrade and Protect may or may not be for you:
- You like to have the latest devices
- You can’t afford to buy a phone outright
- You have a good credit history
- You’re very clumsy and often need a screen replacement
- You’re happy to lock yourself in with Optus
- You want to keep the phone you’ve been paying off
- You want to choose from a wide range of devices
- You want to choose from a wide range of Optus plans
- You want the freedom to shop around for cheaper phone plans from all telcos
If you want to know financially if opting into a service like this is worth it, we've done the math so you don't have to:
Let's pretend you currently have an iPhone 15 Plus with 128GB of storage on a 24 month plan. This incurs a total minimum cost $1,450.96 over the 24-month repayment term, so $58.29 per month with Optus. Plus add on your monthly plan, let's say the $52 Optus Choice Plus Plan and add on Optus Upgrade and Protect at $15 per month.
This means your combined phone, plan and Upgrade and Protect costs equate to $125.29 per month.
Now let's say you're 20 months through a 24-month device plan (this example is so you avoid Optus' $99 fee for upgrading with 12 months or more left on your device plan).
And the device you're upgrading is in good working order, based on Optus' device assessment standards.
That means you would have paid $2,505.80 over 20 months for lasing your device (because remember when you upgrade you don't get to keep it) and plan. This is also inclusive of $300 worth of Optus Upgrade and Protect.
When an iPhone 15 Plus costs $1,399 outright, the difference means you would've paid $1,106.80 more over 20 months for a phone plan, a phone and to have the option of upgrading your device. And remember, when you buy a phone outright, you own it. Optus Upgrade and Protect means you're never really paying to keep the device because as soon as you upgrade, you need to return it.
How does Optus Upgrade and Protect compare to Telstra and Vodafone?
Optus isn't the only telco with an insurance-like offering across devices. Telstra and Vodafone have similar subscriptions to enable easier upgrades. So let's compare the trio:
All of them charge the same for their monthly add-on subscription, $14.99 or $15 per month, and all of them cover mobile phones and tablets. But each telco offers something different. For example, only Telstra has a maximum number of screen repairs and device upgrades per year.
Optus' biggest downside is a compulsory credit check when signing up for a new phone, which will determine your eligibility. There is also no scenario where Optus will allow you to keep the device you've been paying off.
Telstra seems to be the most particular about the conditions surrounding its Upgrade & Protect offering. One example is Telstra customers can only claim one of the following combinations in a 12-month period: 1 damaged device and 1 screen replacement, or 2 damaged devices, or 2 screen replacements. This is something to seriously think about if you're a very clumsy person.
Vodafone, uniquely, is the only telco here that also covers wearables. Plus it will also offer the option to keep the device. This comes at a fee of $299, however.
Vodafone is also the only telco that offers its first screen replacement free to eligible customers. Every screen replacement thereafter is $45, which is $54 cheaper than both Optus and Telstra. As an added bonus, you won't need to sign a new contract when you get a new device, unlike Telstra and Optus.
For a thorough breakdown, see our comparison table below:
| Monthly Fees | Screen replacement fees | Upgrade fees | Must return device? | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Optus | $15 | $99 | $0 if in good condition and with <12 months of repayments remaining
$99 if in good condition $249 if damaged |
Yes |
| Telstra | $15 | $99 (max 2 per year) | $0 if in good condition and within 6 months of a 12 month repayment plan or last 12 months of any other repayment plan
$99 if in good condition and at any other time in a repayment time $249 if damaged (max 2 per year) |
Yes |
| Vodafone | $14.99 for phones or tablets $4.99 for wearables | $45 ($0 for first replacement) | $149 for phones $65 for tablets $99 for wearables | Yes for wearables and tablets but not for phones. A $299 fee will be charged and customers are limited to one per 12 month period. |
All upgrades and repairs are subject to the device condition.
How does Optus Upgrade and Protect compare to AppleCare?
Apple users who buy an iPhone outright or on a plan receive seven days of complimentary AppleCare with their new device. After that, they can choose to purchase AppleCare up to 30 days post-purchase. The price per month, or for two years if you'd prefer a discount, differs per device model. Pricing is slightly higher if you choose to add Theft and Loss to your AppleCare.
See the table below for standard AppleCare+ pricing across popular iPhone models:
| iPhone model | Monthly | Two years |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone 16 | $11.49 | $229 |
| iPhone 16 Plus | $13.99 | $279 |
| iPhone 16 Pro | $15.99 | $319 |
| iPhone 16 Pro Max | $15.99 | $319 |
| iPhone 15 | $11.49 | $229 |
| iPhone 15 Plus | $13.99 | $279 |
| iPhone 15 Pro | $15.99 | $319 |
| iPhone 15 Pro Max | $15.99 | $319 |
| iPhone 14 | $14.99 | $229 |
| iPhone 14 Plus | $13.99 | $279 |
| iPhone 14 Pro | $15.99 | $319 |
| iPhone 14 Pro Max | $15.99 | $319 |
On top of this monthly repayment, AppleCare charges service fees when customers make a claim.
- Screen or backglass damage fees are on par with the cheapest fee (charged by Vodafone after a second incident) at $45.
- Other accidental damages will be charged at $149.
- Theft and Loss recovery is $229 but is only available to customers who pay extra for AppleCare+ with Theft and Loss.
Additionally, and unlike the Big Three telcos, AppleCare can protect against Theft and Loss, has 24/7 priority access to its certified technical support team, software support, and battery service coverage. AppleCare also covers an unlimited number of incidents for accidental damage protection.
Alternatives to phone insurance
Purchasing monthly insurance isn't the only way to protect your device. Purchasing a quality protective case and screen protector are excellent ways to prevent damage in the first place. Many even offer warranties if they fail and are incredibly easy to apply. While forking out up to $200 may sound like a lot, it's much more affordable than paying for ongoing insurance subscriptions or a new device altogether.
With three-year plans growing in popularity, that equates to $540 for added protection plus repair costs over the life of your device.
Here are a few of the best device protection options we have identified across iPhone 16 and Samsung S25 Ultra devices:
Optus Upgrade and Protect FAQs
Can I add on Upgrade and Protect after buying my phone?
Customers do have the option to add on Optus Upgrade and Protect to a device purchased on a plan where the add-on wasn't initially purchased. But this must be done within 30 days of starting your device payment plan with Optus. You will need to contact Optus directly to organise this.
Can I exchange a device without returning it?
No. When you upgrade a mobile phone or tablet, the existing device must be returned to Optus. This is also because a physical assessment of the existing device needs to be carried out to determine its condition. Once assessed, Optus will then accurately calculate if an upgrade or damage fee may apply. They also consider the length of time you've spent on your current device payment plan.
When does Optus Upgrade and Protect end on my plan?
Optus Upgrade and Protect will automatically terminate once the repayment plan on a device has completed.
Is Optus Upgrade and Protect a good deal if I break my phone?
This depends on how long you've been paying into Optus Upgrade and Protect and what fees you may incur. If your phone or tablet is damaged to the point it's no longer in 'good working order', based on Optus' device assessment standards, you will be charged $249 on your next invoice if you choose to go ahead with an upgrade.
Compared to buying a new phone outright, $249 isn't too bad for a new device, especially when you've already been paying $15 per month on top of that.
It's also worth noting the usual $99 early upgrade fee will be waived in this instance, even if you upgrade with 12 months or more left on your device plan.
The other option is simply ignoring the fact you've been paying $15 per month for however many months and switching telcos to get a new phone. You could even end up with a better phone plan by shopping around.
These are the most popular NBN 50 plans with WhistleOut users this week:
|
#1
|
Exetel
Extra-value nbn50
$60.99/mth
Min. cost $60.99
|
|
#2
|
Tangerine Telecom
Value Plus NBN
$59.90/mth
Min. cost $59.90
|
|
#3
|
Buddy Telco
Editor's Pick
Value nbn - Unlimited
$63/mth
Min. cost $63
|
|
#4
|
TPG
nbn50 Unlimited Plan
$69.99/mth
Min. cost $69.99
|
|
#5
|
Kogan Internet
Silver Unlimited
$59.90/mth
Min. cost $59.90
|
|
#6
|
iiNet
nbn50 Liimitless
$69.99/mth
Min. cost $69.99
|
|
#7
|
Dodo
nbn50 Unlimited Plan
$68.90/mth
Min. cost $68.90
|
|
#8
|
Superloop
Extra-value nbn50/20
$67/mth
Min. cost $67
|
|
#9
|
Telstra
Upfront Internet Plan Essential
$105/mth
Min. cost $105
Link not supplied
|
|
#10
|
iPrimus
Standard Plus nbn50 Plan
$84/mth
Min. cost $84
|
Find a better phone plan
Thousands of mobile phone plans unpacked. All the facts. No surprises.
Related Articles
Sign up for telco news, money-saving deals and more.
