Best Phones to Get on US Cellular
Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra
The Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra stands out with its 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED display, Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, and up to 16GB of RAM. Its 5000mAh battery supports fast charging. The camera system includes a 200MP primary sensor, a 12MP front camera, and 8K video recording capabilities. Ideal for those seeking a premium Android experience.
Apple iPhone 14 Pro Max
Featuring a 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR display, the Apple iPhone 14 Pro Max is powered by the A16 Bionic chip. It offers up to 16GB of RAM and a long-lasting battery with fast charging support. The quad-camera setup includes a 48MP primary sensor and a 12MP front camera, supporting 4K video recording at 60fps. Perfect for iOS enthusiasts.
Apple iPhone 14 Pro
For a more compact option, the Apple iPhone 14 Pro offers a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display and the same A16 Bionic chip. It includes up to 16GB of RAM and a battery supporting fast charging. The camera system mirrors the Pro Max but in a smaller form factor, making it ideal for those wanting the latest iOS features in a manageable size.
Apple iPhone 14
The Apple iPhone 14 provides an entry-level option with a 6.1-inch Super Retina HD display and the A15 Bionic chip. It includes up to 6GB of RAM and a battery supporting fast charging. The dual-camera setup features a 12MP primary sensor and a 12MP front camera, capable of 4K video recording at 60fps. Suitable for newcomers to the iOS ecosystem or budget-conscious users.
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4
For a unique form factor, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4 offers a 7.6-inch Dynamic AMOLED display that folds into a 5.1-inch cover display. Powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 processor, it includes up to 16GB of RAM. The camera system features a 50MP primary sensor and a 10MP front camera, supporting 8K video recording. Ideal for those seeking flexibility and high-end performance.
Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra
The Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra features a 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED display and a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 processor. It includes up to 16GB of RAM and a 5000mAh battery supporting fast charging. The camera system has a 108MP primary sensor and a 40MP front camera, supporting 8K video recording. It also supports the S Pen stylus, making it versatile for Android users.
Samsung Galaxy S23
A compact flagship, the Samsung Galaxy S23 offers a 6.1-inch Dynamic AMOLED display and a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor. It includes up to 8GB of RAM. The camera system features a 50MP primary sensor and a 12MP front camera, supporting 8K video recording. Perfect for those wanting a compact Android device with high-end performance.
Google Pixel 7 Pro
For fans of Google's ecosystem, the Google Pixel 7 Pro features a 6.7-inch OLED display and Google's Tensor G2 chip. It includes up to 12GB of RAM and a 5124mAh battery supporting fast charging. The camera system includes a 50MP primary sensor and a 12MP front camera, supporting 10x optical zoom. Known for its exceptional software experience and camera capabilities.
Considerations When Choosing a Phone
Ecosystem
Consider the ecosystem you prefer. If already invested in Apple devices, the iPhone might be the best choice. For those who prefer Google's software or want more customization, an Android device from Samsung or Google might be more suitable.
Form Factor
Think about the form factor of the phone. Do you prefer a compact device that fits easily in your pocket, or do you need a larger screen for better viewing experiences? The Samsung Galaxy S23 and Galaxy S22 Ultra offer compact and large-screen options, respectively, while the Galaxy Z Fold 4 provides a unique foldable design.
Price
Price is also a significant factor. Some phones, like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4, come with a premium price tag due to their advanced features and unique design. Others, like the Apple iPhone 14, offer more affordable options without compromising on performance and features.
Are Phones on US Cellular Locked?
US Cellular has been selling unlocked phones for years, except for some devices locked to the carrier for 120 days after purchase. Older devices sold before February 2016 might be locked to US Cellular, but a subsequent software update should have unlocked them. To check if your phone is locked or unlocked, call 611 while connected to the US Cellular network.
Can I Unlock a Phone Bought from US Cellular?
Yes, US Cellular allows unlocking phones locked to it for 120 days after the initial purchase. After this period, the carrier will automatically unlock your device. You can also apply for earlier phone unlock if you meet certain criteria, such as having paid your device in full and being in good standing with the carrier, fulfilling all pending obligations, or being on military duty and proving deployment outside of US Cellular's coverage area. For more information, check out US Cellular's support page.
Best Deals on US Cellular
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Get up to $1,900 off the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 or Z Flip 6: By fulfilling the right criteria, US Cellular will give you up to $1,900 off the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 or $1,100 off the Galaxy Z Flip 6. This means you can get either Android phone for free. The offers are available for both new and existing customers. The deal on the Galaxy Z Flip 6 doesn’t even require a trade-in, but you need to add a line or upgrade on the Unlimited Data-Even Better 3.0 Plan and commit to 36 months of a contract to receive your rebate in bill credits.
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Get a free iPhone 15 Pro Max: Carrier deals are the only real way to save big on the latest iPhone, and US Cellular has one of the best packages available. By signing up for the Unlimited Data-Even Better 3.0 Plan and trading in your old phone, you can save as much as $1,200 on the four devices. In other words, you can get the iPhone 15 Pro Max handset for free. The contract is significant but if you’ll be happy with the latest iPhone for a few years, this deal is tough to beat.
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Get the Galaxy S24 Plus for free: The Samsung Galaxy S24 range is the reigning king of Android, and US Cellular has excellent offers on the Samsung flagships. With the right service plan, you can save up to $1,200 on any of the handsets. All you need to do is buy the Samsung S24, S24 Plus, or S24 Ultra on an Unlimited Data-Even Better 3.0 Plan. You’ll then receive your rebate for up to $1,200 in the form of bill credits, paid over 36 months. That would leave you nothing to pay on the base model Galaxy S24 Plus and only $100 outstanding on the S24 Ultra.
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Save up to $830 on any smartphone without a trade-in: This deal is as simple as it is appealing. Whatever phone you have your eye on, committing to US Cellular for 36 months will knock up to $830 off the price of your new handset. All you have to do is sign up for an unlimited Evolve plan, and let US Cellular do the rest. The discount you can get depends on which state you’re in, but if you’re eligible for the full amount, then you could pick up the likes of the Galaxy S23 FE or the Pixel 8 for free.
