Last updated: August 2026
8ta is now Telkom Mobile, so an 8ta upgrade is a Telkom upgrade. If you are on a plan dating back to that era, there is a good chance you are paying more than a current plan would cost for the same thing.
Check what you are on before upgrading
Legacy plans quietly become poor value. Data pricing has fallen substantially since the 8ta years, so an old allocation at an old price can look very unattractive next to today’s range.
Ask Telkom for two figures: what you currently pay and receive, and what their present plans offer at the same price.
Upgrading is not automatically the answer
An upgrade restarts a 24-month commitment and usually finances a new handset. Consider the alternatives first:
| Option | When it is better |
|---|---|
| Upgrade with a new handset | Your phone is failing or unsupported |
| Move to SIM-only | Your phone still works — usually the biggest saving |
| Change the plan only | You want better value without a new device |
| Port to another network | Telkom coverage does not work where you are |
SIM-only is the option providers mention least and that saves most people the most money. See upgrade vs SIM only.
Ask about the outstanding balance
If you upgrade before your current term ends, ask whether any device balance is outstanding and how it is handled. This is where upgrade offers become more expensive than they appear.
See upgrade vs a new contract and trade-in vs upgrade.
Compare on the total
Monthly × term, plus any upfront amount. Then check coverage still suits you before recommitting for two years.
See 8ta contract deals, Telkom upgrade deals, phone contract upgrade deals, Telkom contract deals and SIM only upgrade deals.
Frequently asked questions
Can I still upgrade an 8ta contract?
Yes — through Telkom, which the brand became.
Should I upgrade or go SIM-only?
SIM-only, if your current phone still works.
What should I ask about?
Any outstanding device balance on your current agreement.
More comparisons
- Check Network Coverage Before A Phone Contract
- When Can I Upgrade My Phone Contract?
- Data Contract Upgrades
- Month To Month SIM Only Deals
- Device Only Contract Deals
- Contract Deals
- How Do Double Phone Deals Work?
- Upgrade Phone Contract Online
- How To Activate A Contract SIM
- 24 Month Contract Deals
- Month To Month vs Contract Internet
- Best Internet For Working From Home
- 24 vs 36 Month Phone Contract
- Phone And Data Bundle Deals
- Contract Deals Under R200
- MTN Upgrade Deals
- Check Coverage Before An Internet Deal
Pricing, upgrade terms and coverage change regularly. This is general information, not financial advice.