Updated: August 5, 2016
Originally Published: September 27, 2015
My temporary departure from the smartphone world stemmed from an urgent necessity for communication. With my smartphone out of commission and my partner’s mother hospitalized, I needed a reliable way to stay connected.
I approached a young sales associate at the cell phone store, hoping to persuade him to replace my phone without any costs, despite being ineligible for a new one for another six months. In a decisive manner, I retrieved my trusty flip phone, dating back to 2009 or 2010, and firmly instructed him, “Just reactivate this one.” The young man complied and wished me luck. I sincerely hope he’s still employed.
As the initial urgency faded, I wrestled with the frustration of having diligently cared for my smartphone, only for it to fail me. I began exploring options to return to the world of smartphones. Spending $50 to $100 seemed excessive, especially compared to the $400 to $500 price tags I had encountered. I decided to dig my heels in and embrace my old device. “We can manage this!” I reassured my partner, friends, and family. “It’s only six months!”
While it provided little comfort, I learned that I wasn’t alone in this upgrade predicament. The average lifespan of a smartphone in the U.S. is just shy of 24 months, with many users trading up even sooner—often between 18 to 21 months—due to factors like user damage, heat, and improper charging. This cycle creates a lucrative business for cell phone companies, who have little incentive to extend the life of our devices.
Despite my initial resistance, I discovered valuable insights into the world of pre-paid phones, which can serve as a temporary solution during these upgrade transitions. As discussed in various online forums, one can often use the SIM card from a malfunctioning phone in a pre-paid model that is compatible with their carrier.
Many Americans face the challenge of maintaining a phone connection, not just due to upgrade limbo but also because of the financial burden of smartphone ownership. Those of us with data plans are indeed fortunate.
My choice to stick with the flip phone has not come without its hurdles. The small earbud jack requires a rare adapter, which I couldn’t locate. Making a 10 to 15-minute phone call, a lengthy conversation for me now, involved awkwardly switching hands to relieve pressure on my arm and head. While the potential health risks from radiofrequency radiation remain debated, I couldn’t help but notice the device heating up and my hands growing numb.
Texting on a flip phone demands a level of patience that I found increasingly difficult to maintain. A simple message like “Be there soon” requires 28 key presses plus an additional one for a period. To save my sanity, I’ve surrendered to shortcuts and abbreviated texts, sending messages like: “Can you call Tara. Thanks” or “Sent email. Please read.”
As my new smartphone approaches, I feel both relief and apprehension. This six-month experience has granted me clarity about smartphones and their often tyrannical hold over our work lives. I recently joked with a friend about establishing strict boundaries before welcoming a smartphone back into my life.
After careful consideration, I’ve decided on one crucial rule: No work-related email apps or notifications on this phone. I refuse to allow myself to be lured into that deceptive “just checking in for a minute” mentality.
Instead, I welcome the prospect of lengthy phone calls and texting with friends and family, and even colleagues, within reason. I’m excited about taking and sharing photos, listening to my favorite community radio station while exercising, and accessing useful information effortlessly. I will also regularly evaluate whether I’m adhering to my fundamental rule and consider if additional boundaries may be necessary.
Ultimately, I want to continue saying “yes” to sending handwritten greeting cards filled with updates and amusing anecdotes, signed with warmth: “Best wishes,” “All my love,” or simply, “Talk to you soon!”
This article was originally published on September 27, 2015.
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Summary:
In this article, I recount my experience using an old flip phone after my smartphone failed, highlighting the challenges and insights gained during this time. I discuss the financial and practical implications of smartphone ownership, the need for temporary solutions, and the importance of setting boundaries with technology. Ultimately, I reflect on the value of reconnecting with friends and family in more meaningful ways while preparing for the return of my smartphone.