Cellphone users are all different, but when it comes to upgrading smartphones and other digital devices, 2 distinct groups stand out.

At one extreme, there are the technophiles, early adopters, and proudly self-confessed geeks who'll queue overnight to get their hands on the latest smartphone the moment it's released. Then there are the thrifty shoppers who don't spend on unnecessary luxuries and won't replace a phone until it literally stops working.

Both groups sometimes make poor money choices about connectivity. If you love innovation, you may be overspending on new devices for minimal improvements. But if you live by the motto 'If it ain't broke, don't fix it,' hanging on to a smartphone for too long could mean you lose access to essential apps – like your digital banking – forcing you to use channels that cost more.

When should you upgrade?

It doesn't matter whether you're on Team iPhone or Team Samsung – it’s better to choose a sensible middle path between constantly buying shiny new stuff, and hanging on to the same mobile until you can't use all its functions. It just makes sense to upgrade your smartphone from time to time (as anyone who’s tried to retrieve contacts and messages from a dead phone will know).

Here are 6 excellent reasons to start exploring what's on the market:
 

1.    To replace ageing hardware

Manufacturers build phones to be as durable as possible, but they're still packed with delicate, high-tech components. Over the years, your phone will suffer a few falls, spills, and other knocks that gradually damage the hardware.

As components degrade, your phone finds it harder to run its operating system and apps, becoming slow and frustrating. Even if you treat your phone with kid gloves to protect it, older hardware may struggle with the processing demands of upgraded software, making updates of even essential app slower.

2.    To regain decent battery life

Battery degradation is one of the most common reason your smartphone's performance slows down. After 2 or 3 years, battery efficiency declines noticeably. Premium models like the latest iPhones and Android devices may last a bit longer, but after 5 or 6 years a full charge might not last even 24 hours, no matter what the brand.

Software and app updates demand more power, making your battery discharge faster and increasing battery wear. In severe cases, a battery may degrade to a point where it discharges in just a few minutes, even when fully charged. If you're forced to keep your mobile plugged in all the time, it's more accurately described as an 'immobile' – you might as well have a landline.

3.    To improve security

Whether you're on an iOS or Android operating system, your device needs regular updates to patch security risks, fix bugs, and add features. Older models eventually stop supporting new updates, leaving you exposed.

Outdated software is an easier target for cybercriminals, making your phone more vulnerable to malware, viruses, and hacking – all on the rise globally.  Upgrading to a device that supports the latest security updates helps protect sensitive information like your banking details, passwords, and messages.

4.    To maintain compatibility with app upgrades

Apps evolve, and new versions are designed for newer devices. Older phones may not be able to run updated apps, or even install updates. Over time, even basic functions like browsing and messaging can become slow and unreliable.

Eventually, your phone might not run essential apps – which can be more than inconvenient. You could be unable to activate a new bank card or call for help in an emergency.

5.    To take better pictures and videos

How could we share all those selfies, socials, travel, and food pics and vids without our phones? It takes state-of-the-art digital image tech, filters, and camera apps to make your posts look really inviting, and the latest smartphones are packed with innovative features to make your photos and videos stand out.

Upgrading can give you better resolution, colour accuracy, display, low-light performance, display quality, facial recognition, and connectivity options – along with handy new features like night mode and enhanced optical zoom.

6.    To save on repair costs

If you don’t have insurance to cover phone repairs, it pays to compare the cost of repair with the price of a new device. If your repair quote for essential fixes like a screen replacement or battery swap is more than half your phone's current market value, upgrading is usually the smarter choice.

Your decision also depends on what you use your phone for. If you need better storage, better performance, or improved speed for work or personal use, an upgrade might be more cost-effective than repairing your old phone.

Don't upgrade before exploring Avo trade-ins

A trade-in is the simplest way to get a great deal on an upgrade. You can now trade in your current device for an iPhone, iPad, MacBook or Apple Watch on Avo SuperShop – without leaving your home.

Earn Greenbacks and get up to 10% off when you shop on Avo with your Greenbacks-linked cards, and save even more with regular promos and deals.