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Actor and presenter Waseem Mirza expressed his frustration upon discovering that he would need to replace his phone, which was still functioning perfectly. Despite the hardware operating smoothly, Samsung ceased security updates for his device in 2020, leaving him feeling compelled to upgrade. "I just wish there was a way to get more life out of this old bit of tech," he lamented. Mirza, who purchased the phone in 2016, found the lack of security updates to be quite unreasonable. "Your battery and your screen are still working great. It feels like the manufacturer is forcing you to upgrade," he added, highlighting the inconvenience of having to adapt his online banking and production company management to a new device. His experience underscores a growing concern among consumers about planned obsolescence in technology.

As well as the financial cost, there is an environmental cost to upgrading your phone. About 80% of the carbon emissions from mobile phones result from their manufacture. This is known as embedded or embodied carbon.

So, from an emissions point of view, the longer phone users can get the latest software to keep their phones running, the better.

Mr. Mirza found hope in /e/os, an innovative operating system that breathes new life into older devices no longer receiving official updates. Perfectly aligned with his needs, this free version of Android supports more than 200 devices, including his Galaxy S7 Edge, which will benefit from an additional five years of usability after manufacturer support ceases next year. By opting for /e/os, users like Mr. Mirza not only extend the lifespan of their beloved phones but also contribute to a greener approach, reducing electronic waste. Gaël Duval, the visionary behind /e/os, emphasizes the mission to provide alternatives for devices that have been neglected by their manufacturers for far too long. With /e/os, technology can become more sustainable, allowing cherished gadgets to continue functioning rather than ending up discarded.

In recent years, smartphone manufacturers have been prioritizing longevity in their devices, a trend that reflects the evolving needs of consumers. Samsung's Galaxy S24 series, for instance, has set a new benchmark by offering seven years of support, aligning with Google's commitment to its Pixel lineup. Similarly, Apple is supporting the iPhone 16 for a minimum of five years. This extended support is facilitated by advancements in processor architecture and increased memory capacity, which enhance the user experience over time. Rik Viergever, chief operating officer at /e/os, suggests that these newer phones are likely to remain functional well beyond their official support timelines, highlighting an exciting shift towards sustainable technology in the smartphone industry. As manufacturers continue to invest in durability, consumers can expect their devices to serve them efficiently for many years to come.