9 Signs Your Phone Needs To Be Replaced

Every few years, we find ourselves facing the challenge of determining when it’s time to replace an aging phone. Of course, if your device dies outright, replacing it is a no-brainer. But what other reasons justify purchasing a new phone?

To answer this vital question, here are 9 signs that it’s time to get a new phone.

1 – Your battery drains quickly

Do you always carry a charging cable and power bank due to your phone’s short battery life? Smartphone batteries typically last 300 to 500 charge cycles, but heavy usage can wear them out faster. Check for apps running in the background that could be draining your battery. If you have to carry your charger around everywhere you go, it’s time for a replacement.

2 – Is your phone hot?

Power-hungry apps and apps running in the background can cause your phone to heat up, which is normal. But if your phone becomes unusually hot even when idle or too hot to touch, it may be time to be replaced.

3 – Your phone hinders your vacation

Traveling with an outdated phone can pose significant challenges. Older phones often lack compatibility with local networks, resulting in slow or unreliable internet connections, hindering communication and research while exploring. Additionally, businesses from hotels to restaurants have adopted digital ways to log or book services, such as through a phone app, and many countries have implemented digital verification systems for border entry, especially in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Also, an old device tend to have diminished battery life and performance issues, jeopardizing essential functions like navigation and capturing memories. Upgrading to a newer phone before traveling ensures a seamless experience, free from the frustrations associated with outdated devices.

4 – Random reboots?

If your phone frequently restarts on its own, it might be time for a replacement. Random reboots can stem from hardware issues like a faulty battery or software problems such as malware, outdated operating systems, or insufficient storage space.

You can explore repairing hardware problems or try updating your OS and using anti-malware software to diagnose the issue. However, if these solutions don’t work, your phone might be reaching the end of its lifespan. As phones age, they struggle with software performance and become more susceptible to glitches. Frequent reboots could indicate it’s time for a new phone.

5 – You are running out of space

Do you often need to delete photos and uninstall apps due to limited phone storage? Photos and newer apps consume substantial space, overwhelming older phones with 4 to 8 GB storage, inadequate for modern needs. Newer phones boast up to 1 TB storage.

While you can back up and remove photos, if constant deletions leave only essential apps, it’s a signal for a new phone.

6 – Your apps crash often

If your apps frequently crash or won’t open, it could be due to insufficient space on your phone to run them. Smartphones use RAM for active tasks and apps, and older or lower-end phones often have limited RAM. Apps optimized for newer phones or those requiring ample RAM, like mobile games, can exceed this limit, leading to crashes. If this issue persists, it may be time for a new phone.

7 – You have a 3G phone

3G technology is becoming obsolete as cell phone carriers shift their focus to the faster and more reliable 5G network. Most major carriers in the U.S. and Canada have shut down or are planning to shut down their 3G networks in the coming years, rendering older phones incapable of services. While newer phones connect to 4G and LTE networks, older phones relying on 3G face obsolescence. This phase-out means millions of devices won’t support data, texts, or calls, including emergencies. If your phone depends on 3G, it’s time to consider an upgrade.

8 – You can’t update the OS

Struggling to update your device to the latest operating system? Older phones might lack compatibility or sufficient storage for the latest OS, leading to issues. If you can’t update, it’s a clear indicator that it’s time for a new phone. Outdated operating systems can slow down your device, make it vulnerable to security threats, and even cause apps to crash.

9 – Your ports don’t always work

Dealing with frustration as you need to wiggle your headphone cord for sound or cable to charge your device? Frequent use can lead to dust and lint buildup, damaging ports.

While experimenting with various cords and headphones is a good idea, worn-out ports indicate aging. Explore wireless options like Bluetooth headphones and inductive chargers for devices with damaged ports. In the end, worn-out ports might signal that it’s time to upgrade your phone.

Upgrade with a phone and plan from Rogers powered by Zoomer

Rogers powered by Zoomer is a new CARP Recommended program which provides affordable cell phone plans across Canada, and the U.S. with International travel options.

At Rogers powered by Zoomer, a dedicated team of experts is ready to help you select the right device and plan for your needs. Provided by Red Wireless – your exclusive Rogers dealer.

If you’ve noticed one or more of these signs and decide that it’s time to replace your phone, contact a Red Wireless expert today at 1-888-271-4866 or visit www.redwireless.ca/carp