TECH NOW: When should you upgrade your smartphone

• Three things to consider before upgrading your phone

So many shiny new smartphones, so much temptation. But when does it pay to get something new? In this TECH NOW, here are three things to consider before upgrading your phone.

1 – If you've had your phone for more than three years, or it's cracked and struggling, it's probably time to consider upgrading to something new. But upgrading every year to get a few minor new features isn't going improve your experience.

2 – Check to find out if you are even eligible for an upgrade. It's easy to find out. For instance, AT&T customers can simply dial *639#. On your Verizon phone, call #874. Or just log in to your carrier's website.

3- Can you trade-in or sell your current phone to offset the cost of something new? Maybe. Be sure to check what you can get for a trade-in, or use a site like Gazelle or Nextworth. And remember: it pays to keep whatever phone you have in great shape.

Jennifer Jolly is an Emmy award-winning consumer tech contributor and host of USA Today's new daily digital TECH NOW . Email her at techcomments@usatoday.com. Follow her on Twitter: @JenniferJolly.