Why you don't necessarily need an upgrade, just because someone told you you did

With billions spent on ads coming at your from all directions all the time, it's easy to get overwhelmed and convinced that you really desperately need an upgrade on your device otherwise it's going to stop working sometime next week. Well, here's why that's not true and here's how you can get years (if not decades) out of your devices if you really don't have a need for the latest and greatest features. 

1) Software updates. Most devices stop receiving the latest software updates after about 5 years or so. But did you know that they still receive security updates? Just because your phone can't use Apple Intelligence or use the new Genmoji app, doesn't mean it's destined for the trash. Androids from 2012 can still use most of the apps you're familiar with like Facebook, Instragram, YouTube, etc. The easiest way to think about it is if the app was available in any form when you first bought that device, you can still use that app in 2025. 

2) Battery changes (continued). By far the most common reason people opt for a phone replacement is the battery starts to wear down. Maybe you’re only getting 3–4 hours a day out of your device and you’re tempted to grab a new one that lasts 10+. But here’s the good news: as devices get older, their replacement batteries often get cheaper. An iPhone 7 battery replacement, for example, can cost as little as $30. You might even find local repair shops or DIY kits that make it quick, easy, and inexpensive. Sure, a fresh battery won’t magically turn your five-year-old phone into the latest flagship, but it will give your trusted companion a new lease on life without a big price tag.

3) Keeping it clean (software and hardware).

Just like a cluttered house can feel oppressive, a cluttered phone can feel sluggish. Uninstall the apps you haven’t used in six months, clear your cache, and regularly reboot your device. You’d be surprised at how much performance you can squeeze out with some digital spring-cleaning. And don’t forget the hardware side: a quick wipe-down every now and then—especially around ports and speakers—keeps dust from building up. This can help maintain clear sound quality and stable connections for charging cables or headphones.

4) Use external accessories. If your device’s camera isn’t as sharp as it used to be, or maybe the speakers have lost a bit of their oomph, consider adding accessories rather than replacing your entire device. External lenses, Bluetooth speakers, or even external battery packs let you customize your phone to match your current needs. It’s often far cheaper to buy a cool accessory than to fork out for a totally new phone.

5) Optimize and tweak settings. Many devices have hidden power-saving modes or battery optimizations in the settings. Turning off background app refresh, lowering screen brightness, or adjusting push notifications can make a world of difference in both performance and battery life. Even a simple tweak like switching from a bright, animated wallpaper to something static and minimal can help keep your older phone feeling snappy.

It’s important to remember that you don’t have to buy into the upgrade craze. Whether it’s installing a battery replacement, decluttering your device, or customizing it with external accessories, there are so many ways to squeeze extra mileage out of your old faithful. By following these practical steps, you’ll not only save money but also help reduce electronic waste—and your trusty phone or tablet might stick around for years longer than you ever expected.