What I Hope to Gain from My Next Smartphone Upgrade
Written on
The Future of Smartphones
Currently, I'm using my Pixel 3a, which has served me well since its release in 2019. Despite its age, I still receive more recent updates than many newer devices. For instance, Microsoft's Duo recently updated to Android 11, yet it remains a year behind in major Android versions. My Pixel 3a is on track to receive Android 12L and security updates until May of this year, with one final sunset update expected, which is typical for Pixel models. However, as 2023 approaches, I find myself contemplating an upgrade, likely to the Pixel 7. In this article, I’ll discuss my general expectations for my next smartphone.
Battery Longevity
When it comes to smartphones, battery life stands out as the most crucial feature for me. I could elaborate on various scenarios where battery life is essential, but ultimately, a dead battery renders a phone useless, regardless of its features or performance. I believe that a minimum battery life of 24 hours is necessary, with 72 hours being the ideal target. Given recent advancements in battery technology, computing efficiency, and software enhancements, I am optimistic that we will soon see substantial improvements in battery performance.
Camera Performance
For a long time, I didn't fully appreciate the value of a good smartphone camera, primarily because I rarely took pictures. Previously, my photos were mostly for quick reminders. However, now that I have a meaningful relationship and enjoy traveling, I take mobile photography more seriously. While I don't need a camera that captures the absolute best shots, I do expect it to deliver consistently good images. I prefer not to fiddle with settings to get a decent photo; I want to be able to quickly snap a picture and move on. Therefore, I anticipate that my next phone will offer significantly enhanced camera features compared to my current Pixel 3a while also being more user-friendly.
Software Support
As my Pixel 3a is set to lose support in May 2022, it will have received around three years of updates, which may extend a bit longer due to its popularity. While three years should be the minimum, I would love to see support extended to four or five years. Anything beyond that raises questions about the viability of supporting devices that are losing market relevance. However, as software continues to be a primary reason for purchasing smartphones, the need for frequent hardware upgrades is diminishing. I want my next phone to have robust support for several years, while also acknowledging that if we were to support devices from two decades ago, we would stifle technological innovation.
Final Reflections
Although I enjoy holding onto my devices for extended periods, especially considering my aging laptop setups, I am genuinely excited about the prospect of getting a new smartphone this year. As someone who relies on their phone for work, education, content creation, and various other tasks, it’s time to align my usage with more advanced hardware. What about you? Are you considering the Pixel 7? What features do you prioritize when upgrading—speed, power, battery life, or specific features? What matters most to you?
In this video, the creator shares their experience of living without a smartphone for 30 days, discussing both the challenges and benefits of the experience.
This video explores the reasons why you might consider ditching your smartphone in 2024, highlighting alternatives and the impact on daily life.