Refresh your smartphone and save
A shiny new smartphone is tempting, but here is how to give your old model a new lease on life at a fraction of the cost, writes Blayne Slabbert.
Several new smartphones have been announced in the past few months, making it tempting to upgrade your own device.
Apple and Samsung tout faster, slicker gadgets which make your current smartphone look dated.
But smartphone tech is changing at a slower pace than a few years ago so getting a new phone won’t bring significant improvements to your digital life.
Also, smartphone prices have increased a lot this year, with several high-end devices now costing more than $1500.
So if your phone is still working OK it may be better to give it a refresh rather than replace it.
Here are some tips to make your phone feel almost new again.
Software update
If you own an older iPhone then update it immediately. The latest software, iOS12, makes a significant performance improvement to older devices.
Also, the latest iPhones run the same software as older devices so using a new device won’t be that much different.
Android does an annual software update too but manufacturers are not that great in releasing it for their devices.
To find out if you can get the new version, go to System > System Update > Check for update, and install it if it’s available.
You could also try to reset your phone (make sure you do a backup first) and reinstall the operating software and apps. This can get rid of hidden unnecessary software or ‘‘bloatware’’, clear your cached data and force you to ditch old apps and only install ones you actually use.
Also, try to free up some storage space by using cloud services such as Google Photos so your phone is not running at capacity.
The last thing to try is to adjust settings to disable animations and background refreshing of apps, two things which can put a strain on your phone.
Replace the battery
Lithium-ion batteries are great but they have a limited lifespan and eventually, they start losing the ability to hold a charge.
When smartphones first came out it was possible to replace the battery yourself but now just about every device is sealed.
Fortunately, there are lots of smartphone repair shops that can do it for you.
Expect to pay about $75. If you’re handy and want to save money you
Smartphone tech is changing at a slower pace than a few years ago so getting a new phone won’t bring significant improvements to your digital life.
can attempt to do it yourself.
The website ifixit.com offers detailed instructions on how to do it, but beware, the site describes the process as ‘‘difficult’’ so take care before starting. A replacement battery should cost about $30.
Fix your screen
I often see smartphones both new and old with cracked screens. While some people may not mind the distorted view, replacing the screen can give a smartphone a new lease on life.
The problem is that it can be expensive for some models. For a Samsung S6 you’ll pay about $250 for a new screen. Bigger devices are even more expensive. A Samsung S6 Edge Plus will cost more than $400, which means you may be better off getting a new phone.
Still, not all models are that expensive. Older iPhones such as the 5, 5c, and 5s only cost $70 for a new screen, while the iPhone 7 will cost about $130 for a replacement.
Once again, if you’re keen to do it yourself then ifixit.com has instructions to help you. Depending on the model a new screen costs about $30 to $40.
Another way to give your screen a refresh is if your screen protector is peeling off or bubbling.
Most modern phones don’t need one but if you like that added level of protection then avoid the plastic ones and get a tempered glass screen protector which cost between $20 and $40.
Other repairs are also affordable and can improve your phone. This includes replacing a broken camera, fixing a home button or replacing a charging port, all of which cost about $80 each to fix.
Buy a new case
Getting a new case will ensure your device lasts longer and it can also give it a new look. This could be a different colour, snazzy design or a tough case to ensure it survives for a few more years.
If you’re not worried about durability, replacing your old chunky case with a slimmer model can make your phone feel a lot sleeker.
Smartphone manufacturers design their devices to last about three years but you can extend that by taking care of your phone, updating the software and fixing problems as they arise.
Spending a few hundred dollars and a bit of time could give your phone a refresh that will allow it to last a few more years, with the added bonus of saving you a lot of money.