Purchasing a new phone involves more than selecting the latest model with the most advanced features. It’s an investment, one you’ll rely on daily—for work, entertainment, or staying connected to the best network with a good sim. Whether you’re a heavy social media user, a movie buff streaming on Netflix, or always catching up on the latest shows on Amazon Prime Video or Disney+ Hotstar, you need a phone that can handle it all seamlessly. Plus, with the MNP (Mobile Number Portability) option, switching networks becomes easier if you’re looking for better coverage or data plans. So, before you make that purchase, here are 10 things to keep in mind.
1. Performance That Feels Effortless
A phone can look great, but if it lags every time you open an app, it’s not worth it. Look under the hood. A good processor (like Snapdragon or MediaTek) combined with at least 6GB of RAM ensures smooth multitasking. Whether you’re gaming, switching between apps, or streaming, you want a phone that keeps up without breaking a sweat.
2. Battery Life That Goes the Distance
Nothing’s worse than your phone dying when you need it most. Look for a battery capacity of 4,500 mAh or more. Fast charging is a bonus, and if it offers wireless charging, even better. A good battery doesn’t just last long—it charges quickly when you’re in a rush.
3. Display: Because You’ll Be Staring at It All Day
A vibrant, crisp display can make all the difference. AMOLED or OLED screens deliver richer colours and better contrast. Also, consider the refresh rate. A 90Hz or 120Hz display isn’t just for gamers—it makes scrolling, swiping, and even reading smoother on the eyes.
4. Cameras: It’s Not Just About Megapixels
Sure, high megapixels sound impressive, but they don’t tell the whole story. Look for features like optical image stabilisation, night mode, and ultra-wide lenses. A phone that takes great photos in daylight is easy; the real test is how it performs in low light.
5. Storage: You’ll Need More Than You Think
Apps, photos, videos—they eat up space fast. 128GB is the sweet spot for most people, but if you shoot a lot of videos or download movies, consider 256GB. Some phones offer expandable storage with microSD cards, which is always a plus.
6. Build Quality: Because Accidents Happen
We’ve all been there—a sudden drop, and your heart skips a beat. That’s why building quality matters. Look for Gorilla Glass protection and, if possible, an IP67 or IP68 rating for water and dust resistance. It won’t make your phone indestructible, but it adds a layer of security.
7. Software Support: Updates Matter
A phone with the latest software isn’t just about new features—it’s about security. Check if the brand offers regular updates. Phones that receive timely software and security patches stay protected against new threats, keeping your data safe.
8. Network Compatibility: Don’t Get Stuck Offline
Imagine buying a new phone, only to realise it doesn’t support your network. Frustrating, right? Make sure it supports 4G LTE and 5G bands. And don’t forget the SIM card—it’s the bridge between your phone and the network. A compatible SIM ensures you get the best speed and coverage.
9. Switching networks? It’s Easier Than You Think
Want better coverage or a more affordable plan without changing your number? That’s where MNP (Mobile Number Portability) comes in. You can port your mobile number to network providers like Vi effortlessly. Just enter your porting number, provide your delivery details, and choose your plan, and voilà—your new SIM gets delivered to your doorstep. No queues, no paperwork headaches, just a smooth switch.
10. Get the Right Plan: Your Phone Deserves It
A powerful phone needs a plan that matches. Brands like Vi offer some of the best prepaid plans to keep you connected without breaking the bank:
- ₹365 SuperHero Pack: 2GB/day, 100 SMS/day, valid for 28 days. Plus, enjoy half-day unlimited data from 12 AM to 12 PM, weekend data rollover, and 2GB backup data monthly via ViApp.
- ₹859 Plan: 1.5GB/day, 100 SMS/day, valid for 84 days. Perfect for heavy users with unlimited midnight data from 12 AM to 6 AM and data rollover from weekdays to weekends.
At the end of the day, it’s not just about having the latest phone. It’s about having the right phone, the right SIM, and the right plan to make the most of it. So, before you buy, tick off this list—you’ll thank yourself later.
