Tips for Prolonging the Lifespan of Your Smartphone
It is not necessary to replace your phone every two years with a new model. Here are some tips to extend the lifespan of your device and keep it in good condition.
Replacing a smartphone every two years significantly contributes to the landfill problem, where millions of devices are discarded annually. If we stacked these phones, the resulting tower would exceed the height of the International Space Station. This cycle of frequent upgrades has been driven by phone operators, who often offer biennial contracts, and by smaller phone manufacturers, who limit software support to just two years. However, recent commitments to extended support from major manufacturers, along with growing legislation around the right to repair, allow many current phones to remain in use for up to seven years.
To extend the lifespan of a smartphone and avoid spending hundreds of unnecessary dollars, several strategies can be followed:
Use a Case
Although it's trendy to show off a phone without protection, using a case significantly increases the chances of the device surviving drops. There are different options on the market, and many people have had good experiences with specific brands. Cases are especially helpful in preventing damage to older phone models.
Care for the Battery
The battery of a phone is usually the component that shows signs of wear first, so it's essential to follow some recommendations to prolong its lifespan. For example, lithium batteries should not be exposed to temperatures above 35 degrees Celsius, as this can degrade them. Additionally, it's advisable to keep the battery charge between 20% and 80% to maximize its performance. If extra charging is needed, using a power bank is a good option, especially compact and fast ones.
If a smartphone's battery begins to fail, replacing it could be an effective solution. There are various routes for replacement, from official channels to DIY repair options.
Clear Phone Storage
One way to optimize the device's performance is by freeing up storage space. Many operating systems offer suggestions for removing unused apps or old messages. It's also advisable to consider cloud storage for photos and videos, as well as deleting files and apps that are no longer needed. Keeping the storage below 80% of its capacity can help the phone run more smoothly.
Reasons to Extend Your Smartphone's Life
The flow of electronic waste grows each year, which has negative consequences for human health and the environment. While many companies offer trade-in programs, keeping a device instead of acquiring a new one can be the most positive decision both environmentally and economically.
Innovations in phones do not always justify an annual change, as new models are often very similar to previous ones. With more effective software update systems, some phones, like Pixel and Galaxy models, are promising support for seven years. Apple, although it hasn't made a specific time commitment, has improved its battery technology and also promises extended performance.
In terms of legislation, new regulations are being adopted that will facilitate the right to repair. In several U.S. states, laws have been implemented that require companies to offer more accessible repair options to consumers. These changes are symptoms of a growing trend towards sustainability and reducing electronic waste, allowing for a more responsible approach to the use and disposal of technological devices.
