Vodafone has refreshed its EVO flexible plan structure, addressing one of the main complaints customers raised when the scheme first launched in 2021. From 20 November, EVO will offer 12-month device plans alongside the existing 24, 36 and 48-month options, giving handset buyers a genuine annual upgrade route at a mainstream UK network for the first time.
The change follows similar moves by O2 Switch Up and Three's device swap program, as networks respond to growing demand from customers who don't want to be locked into multi-year agreements that outlast the device's optimal lifespan.
What's new in EVO 2025
- 12-month option: Pay off the handset in 12 months, then swap or keep
- Lower deposits: Upfront costs cut by up to 50% on flagship devices
- Airtime flex: Change your data and minutes allowance at any time with no penalty
- Trade-in boost: Up to 20% extra trade-in value when you upgrade with Vodafone
- VeryMe rewards: Continuing on all new EVO plans
How the 12-month plan works
Take the iPhone 17 128GB as an example. Under EVO 12-month, customers pay:
- Upfront: £49 (previously £99 on similar plans)
- Device plan: £70 per month for 12 months (total device cost £889)
- Airtime plan: From £16 per month (5GB) to £29 per month (Unlimited)
At the end of 12 months, the customer owns the iPhone outright and can choose to keep the handset and downgrade to a SIM-only plan, trade it in against a new device on a fresh EVO plan, or simply continue paying for the airtime portion.
Is it good value?
The 12-month EVO option isn't cheap in headline monthly terms - iPhone 17 owners will pay significantly more per month than under a 24-month plan. But for buyers who want to upgrade every year, the total cost of ownership is roughly comparable to buying outright and reselling annually, with the added benefit of not having to deal with second-hand marketplaces.
Compared to Apple's own iPhone Upgrade Programme (not officially offered in the UK), EVO 12-month fills a genuine gap. It also directly targets the same buyers who used to favour the ill-fated Three Your Way plans before they were retired.
What about the Ofcom price hike ban?
All new EVO plans comply with Ofcom's incoming ban on mid-contract CPI-linked price rises, which takes effect in April 2026. That means the airtime portion of EVO plans signed from 20 November onwards will be locked in pounds and pence for the duration of the contract, matching moves already made by O2, Sky Mobile and Smarty earlier this year.
Who should consider it?
EVO 12-month is best suited to customers who always want the latest iPhone or Samsung flagship, can afford the higher monthly cost, and value the flexibility of upgrading without trade-in hassle. For everyone else, the existing 24-month and 36-month options remain better value.