Spiceworks Community Digest: New phone anxiety

New phones are out, and it brings up the age-old question for tech enthusiasts: to upgrade, or not to upgrade? While companies like Apple and Samsung release new devices with incremental improvements in cameras, processors, and AI, many users have reached a point where their current phones are “good enough.”

Until the Wheels Fall Off

The community replies show a strong tendency to hold onto devices until they are no longer functional.

  • PatrickFarrell: “Currently on an S22 ultra, and I’m still mad that they nerfed the 10x optical zoom down to 5x… Will probably go with the 26 ultra when it comes out.”
  • Patti27: “I have a Samsung S23 & will be keeping that until the battery starts failing or something else goes wrong with it. Likely in a couple of years.”
  • The Data Master: “Aside from a nicer camera for my hiking photos, I have no real reason to upgrade my phone… Waste of time and money to upgrade.”

The Allure of the New and Shiny

Of course, not everyone can resist the temptation of a new gadget. Some users hold on to their device, but with an eye toward future maintenance, while others upgrade out of necessity.

  • jbatubara: “I bought iPhone 15 Pro when it first came out two years ago… It’s still holding up well, so I don’t see the need to upgrade this year. I’m planning to just replace the battery and keep it at least for a couple more years.”
  • kwelch007: “I finally upgraded from iPhone SE2 to iPhone 16 Pro earlier this year. Biggest reason was my older battery just wouldn’t last anymore and didn’t want to bother with replacing it.”
  • Galluno: “I’m also interested in the Samsung Flip, to be honest, we ordered one for a director of my company and had the pleasure to test it before giving it to them, it was the first time in a while I was excited for a phone!”

The community’s responses prove that the decision to upgrade is a complex one, balancing practicality, cost, and personal preferences against the endless cycle of new releases.What do you think of the new phones? Are you holding out for a better model, or are you ready for an upgrade? Head over to the Spiceworks Community to join the discussion and share your own upgrade philosophy.

Continue Reading