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Department-Issued Cell Phones

Department-Issued Cell Phones

Everything you wanted to know about department-issued cell phones but were afraid to ask.

Phone purchases (new or replacement/upgrade) must be done by TS Admins (currently just the Tech Team) by filling out the form at Telephone & Voice Services for TS Admins - Information Systems and Technology - Jira Service Management.

The department will be liable for the full amount and this is charged to the account assigned to the line on the monthly billing. The most accurate cost will be given at time of order, but you can see the most current info at Cellular Plans & Pricing .

No. Because the department is paying the full amount for the device, it is up to the department to decide when upgrades may occur. Phones do not get replaced after X years like computers do, so users should try to keep the device going as long as possible and replace only if there are major hardware/software issues or the device is no longer supported with updates. Apple will provide you with 3 dates:

  1. Date when iOS will no longer be released (not so important since the device is still functional)

  2. Date when security updates will no longer be provided (very important. Typically 1-2 years after OS EOL)

  3. You should upgrade before the end of this stage since you don’t want to be compromised.

  4. Date when replacement parts will no longer be produced (very important. Typically 5-7 years after EOL)

  5. Wouldn’t worry about this one. If you have someone who is able to keep their device for this long, they deserve an award.

  6. Does the staff member get to choose whether the phone is Apple or Android or is it decided for them?

Again, the choice of phone is entirely up to the department because you are paying for it. Both types of devices are supported and work on campus. The decision on what to buy will be based on the combination of: User preference, department policy (if you have one), and cost.

Since the phone belongs to the department, they will have authority over it.

If you feel it might be needed for a new hire in the future, you can store it away and have it transferred to the new hire when they start.

If you are certain you no longer need it, the phone can be returned to IST Telephone Services. We will use this phone for other departments who have a need for it.