There are always tons of new phones on the market, each of which promises you a better camera experience, an enhanced display, a more capable battery, and so on. All the catchy advertisements and marketing jargon can make you feel like you need to upgrade your device as soon as possible. But do you really need to put aside hundreds of dollars to purchase the latest smartphone? Here are a few questions you need to ask yourself before making a decision.
Am I Really Unhappy with My Current Smartphone?
It’s important to determine if you are satisfied with your current phone before you decide to buy another one. If there are certain factors that are making you unhappy, drill down on your problems. A lot of smartphone issues can be fixed. However, you’ll need to identify the problems you’re having and decide if a repair job is worth the money.
Do I Get Software Updates?
Phone manufacturers offer software updates from time to time. These updates don’t only introduce new features to your phone, but they also help address security vulnerabilities. A good rule of thumb is to upgrade your device only when you’re no longer receiving these updates. In general, Apple phones receive security updates for anywhere between five and six years, while Android devices receive them for up to three years. That said, it’s not always practical to replace a device as soon as you stop receiving security updates. You can make do by installing anti-malware apps that may help your phone run a little longer.
Will a New Phone Change My Life?
It’s important to imagine how the new phone will impact your life. For instance, if you have a baby on the way and your current phone takes extremely low-quality photos, upgrading to a new phone with a better camera system will likely make a huge difference in your life. But if you’re only using your smartphone for basic tasks like making phone calls and texting, a new one won’t really make a big difference. Don’t make the mistake of replacing a smartphone that works fine simply because there’s a newer version out there.
