Mobile network operators increasingly try to lock thier subscribers into 18 or even 24 month contracts. Why?
Is it that in order to subsidise the cost of expensive mobile phones they need longer contracts to avoid a loss? Is it that with the increasing number of attractive offers the networks are scared of customers being poached to other networks
Regardless of the reason, when I purchase a subsidised android device and am locked to a contract for 18 months then I expect during the lifetime of contract when possible that my mobile device will be upgraded new versions of android where practical. I am purchasing a service from the mobile operator and personally I believe that software upgrades SHOULD be a key aspect of that service.
What price should one place on having the latest software, and more importantly, what long-term cost to mobile operators that do not provide such upgrades.