Smartphone upgrade dilemma: Is yearly hype really worth it?

This culture of constant upgrading has turned smartphones into status symbols.

Yet the financial implications are far from trivial. A flagship smartphone can cost over Sh3 million, while average monthly salaries hover between Sh370,000 and Sh500,000. For many, the choice between covering basic expenses and chasing the latest gadget presents a genuine dilemma.

But one question remains: is it really necessary to upgrade every year when a new phone hits the market? University student Christopher Gidion admits that not upgrading makes him feel left behind.

“My phone still works, but I feel excluded when my friends talk about upgrading,” he said.

He added that resisting the hype can be almost impossible, pushing people to extreme measures. “I remember selling my laptop just to get the latest iPhone 16 Pro Max, just so people could see that I’m keeping up with the world,” he recalled.

For content creators like John Alfred, however, the latest smartphone is a professional necessity.

“Brands take you more seriously when they see you using the newest device. For me, it’s not just about communication – it’s about credibility,” he explained.

Financial expert Asha Hamadi cautioned that chasing every new model can strain household budgets. “People spend huge sums on minor upgrades.

That money could be saved or invested in a small business. The upgrade often benefits companies more than consumers,” she said.

She encouraged consumers to focus on buying original, high-quality devices.

“They may be more expensive upfront, but they last longer and give you peace of mind. This helps you resist the pressure to upgrade every year, turning your purchase into a long-term investment,” she added.

On the business side, the hype fuels a thriving market. Repair shops, phone accessory retailers, and even app developers benefit from the upgrade cycle.

“When Apple announces a new iPhone, we immediately get calls from customers asking if it’s available yet,” said Hussein Juma, who runs a popular electronics shop. “Some clients don’t even ask about the price – they just want to be the first to have it.” He noted, however, that not everyone feels the need to buy the very latest model.

“Some people just want a phone that handles WhatsApp, has a good battery, and takes clear photos. They don’t care if it’s last year’s model – they just want something reliable,” he said.

Technology analyst Dominick Dismas believes the yearly rush to upgrade is largely psychological.

“Most people use their phones for social media, banking, and calls. A phone bought two or three years ago can still do all of that perfectly well,” he said. He recommends a three- to five-year upgrade cycle.

“Upgrade only when your current device no longer meets your needs. The most important thing is to buy the best device you can keep for several years. Most yearly updates are minor – skipping one will not hurt you,” he said.

Despite such advice, the hype is unlikely to slow down anytime soon. Global marketing campaigns ensure every launch feels revolutionary, even when the changes are modest. Social media further amplifies the pressure, turning gadget launches into cultural events.

Yet smartphones now last longer than ever, often three to five years with proper care, including battery replacement, use of protective cases, and regular software updates.

“There’s nothing wrong with wanting the best,” said Mr Dismas. “But the smart move is to upgrade when your phone can no longer serve your needs – not when Instagram says it’s time.”