Smartphones are amazing inventions. Each one can replace many consumer devices you depend on. You no longer need to carry a portable camera on vacation, you can deposit a check without needing to visit an ATM, and you can keep your pockets clear of flashlights and calculators. Of course, your computer may gather dust at times because your phone is more readily accessible for internet searching or entertainment.
Over time, however, you may find you need to replace your phone. While it still functions, for various reasons it may be obsolete. Here are five signals your phone will give that it is time to exchange it for a newer model.
It Is No Longer Fashion First
The first reason you might want to replace your phone is also the least rational: it is no longer hip, attractive, or stylish. For many users, smartphones are accessories, chosen for style in the same way as a hat or pair of shoes. At the same time, appearance updates often go hand in hand with performance updates. For example, a slim, sleek or non-existent bezel can result from a company’s push to increase screen-display size without making the phone larger.
It Has a Broken Screen
A broken screen will make your smartphone difficult to use, in addition to ruining its appearance. Cracks can impede your view of icons. They will also diminish the sensitivity of the touchscreen. Over time, a shattered screen may even cause the device to stop functioning. In particular, your water-resistant phone will no longer be able to prevent moisture from seeping in and ruining the electronics.
It No Longer Receive Updates
When an electronic item works well, many consumers consider it irresponsible to replace it even if it is a few years old. Keep in mind, though, companies eventually discontinue issuing updates for their aging phones. Since some updates focus on brand-specific or operating-system functionality improvements, the phone’s performance will suffer when too much time has passed since an update was issued.
Worse yet, almost all companies continually send security patches, intended to keep your phone safe from malware, viruses, and a range of hacker attacks. When your phone’s manufacture stops sending security updates, you do need to replace it if you intend to use it for any financial or personally sensitive tasks.
It Holds No Charge
Newer phones use more efficient processors that require less energy. As a result, phones last longer on single charges than ever before. After many charging cycles, battery life diminishes dramatically, however. Some phones are set up so that users can change the batteries. Many are not, so it can be costly to send it in for a replacement battery. If that is the case, and your phone is more than two years old, you may consider a timely replacement.
It Can Be Disposed Of Safely
A final rationale for considering an upgrade is that you can let go of your old phone responsibly. Some consumers hold off replacing their smartphones because they do not know how to dispose safely of their current one, which contains parts that are not landfill friendly. An ecoATM kiosk offers an innovative solution. What is ecoATM? The company locates kiosks in various stores across the U.S., where you can exchange your phone for money after its worth is evaluated. All phones are recycled, which should give you peace of mind.
A new smartphone is an enjoyable purchase. Even as you grow comfortable with its features, though, the phone may slowly lose its luster. If your device is more than two years old, consider taking steps to upgrade for reasons of aesthetics, security, and functionality.