To Upgrade or not to Upgrade?

Technology is always advancing and upgrading to better accommodate the consumer. Apple is preparing to release at least one new version of its phone very soon. It makes me question if I should make the switch over and follow the trend. We discussed in class this phenomenon of disposing of our old phones, CD, VHS, and other electronics and the idea of getting the next best thing out. Is it because we don’t need them anymore or to stay up to date with the newest upgrade? As an avid Android user I've become accustomed to my phone and its capabilities but with the new apple a product coming out it makes me think, maybe I should make the switch. I think before you make any drastic change to your phone you should ask yourself three simple questions.

The first question is how old is my phone now and is it working properly? If you've had your phone for a couple years and it's all taped up, cracked screen, and you have to hold the charger for your phone to be able to charge fully, it might be time to get a new phone. It is a better choice if your phone is due for an upgrade which usually comes up every two years with most plans. If your phone is a new working condition I am not saying you shouldn't make an upgrade, but you don’t necessarily need to do that right now. I know many Apple users who weren't impressed enough by the iPhone 5s and 5c to upgrade from the 4s, meaning that there are probably a lot of eager potential people eager to upgrade out there for this new phone coming out.

The second question would be what do I want my phone to do? In a way, the next iPhone will be more about what services it offers it will be helping you open your garage door, tracking your exercise workouts no true hardware changes on the actual phone just more functions. Apple's, Android, and Window’s phones goal is to create a sort of universal remote control for your life. Everything you can do on your computer, phone, online etc you are able to do on your phone.

Finally the last question is will I be able to afford the new phone? As college student money is very scarce and I have to really think about if I want to spend a lot on a phone. I’m convinced Apple thinks their consumers are all rich because those prices are well above my spending budget. There are rumors that Apple will be raising the price on its phone due to its predicted larger screen and new components.  So basically a smaller version of an iPad... If you're even remotely on a budget, it's worth thinking not only about getting what you pay for but also about not paying for things you don't want. I've realized the only reason I am even considering a switch is because sadly everyone is talking about this new great upgrade and trying to persuade me to make the switch. Unless anyone can give me apple product money to be able to purchase it, I think I will stick with my android. I also really enjoy my battery life on my android!