Final answer:
Planned obsolescence in smartphones is a strategy where devices are designed to become obsolete quickly, promoting frequent replacements by consumers. This unethical and environmentally harmful approach is now challenged by a growing consumer demand for sustainable, repairable, and long-lasting technology.
Step-by-step explanation:
The concept of planned obsolescence is central to the current model of technological development, especially in the realm of smartphones. Manufacturers, such as Apple, have come under scrutiny for practices that seemingly shorten the lifespan of their products to drive consumers to purchase newer models.
This strategy was highlighted when iPhone users experienced slowdowns and battery issues, leading to lawsuits and a substantial settlement. While planned obsolescence contributes to economic growth for manufacturers, it has significant environmental and ethical implications, as it encourages wastefulness and continual consumption.
Smartphones revolutionized communication and have become even more essential tools in contemporary daily life. People have come to rely on them more now than in past years, as these devices offer a plethora of functions beyond simple communication. In places like Africa, smartphones allow for significant advancements like mobile banking and internet access in areas lacking traditional infrastructure.
As the relationship between people and their phones deepens, the demand for durable and repairable technology grows. Consumers are showing a preference for products designed to last longer and with the capability for easier repairs, which could signify a shift away from the disposable economy and towards sustainability.