The term “planned obsolescence” describes when something is designed to wear out, or break, even be out of date in just a few years. Sound familiar? You’ve likely experienced planned obsolescence first-hand when an item breaks just after the warranty expires or when a new device doesn’t work with the previous model’s accessories. Manufactures are notorious for using this tactic to get consumers to buy more of their products. Think about ink cartridges. They cost more than the printer does in some cases. And video games… every year there’s a new one. Even cars, fashion and textbooks are created with planned obsolescence in mind. But technology is by far the biggest industry that exploits the consumer. Stay ahead of the game and invest in tech that’s durable, instead.
Sony Xperia Z5
The technology for waterproof phones exists. There are a variety of water-resistant phones on the market today. However, with a sprinkle of rain or a dip in the bathtub, popular devices like the iPhone will no longer work. And if you want to get it fixed, you’re likely be lectured about water damage and upsold to the newest, most expensive phone in the store. Skip the headaches and invest in a smartphone like the Sony Xperia Z5. Not only is this device water-resistant, it’s dust-proof too.
ThinkPad 11E
Considering a new laptop computer? Invest in something durable. Just because it’s built to be durable doesn’t mean it’s bulky and as heavy as a bag of bricks. Lenovo’s ThinkPad 11E series are designed to be light, thin and extra durable. They are manufactured to withstand the rigors of on-the-go use or multiple users. So the entire family can use the laptop from dad to your not-so gentle five-year-old, and you won’t even have to worry.
Samsung Gear S2
Smartwatches are emerging on the the tech scene, but many of these new devices are still being tested. You can expect new smartwatches, just as you’ve gotten used to the routine announcement of the latest and greatest phones. However you don’t have to spend upward of $10,000 on the Apple Watch Edition for it to be upgraded in a year or so. There are a variety of additional functional and durable smartwatches on the market today. The Samsung Gear S2, for example, is compatible with Android devices and popular apps. And it’s made from stainless-steel, so you know this smartwatch is durable.
GoPro
Gone are the days when cameras were considered a delicate technology. Sure, there are still plenty of sophisticated, professional-grade cameras on the market today that require a bit of love and care, but more consumers are making the switch to a camera that’s a little bit more rugged. GoPro sold 5.2 million cameras in 2014, according to data reported by BizJournals. And it’s no wonder why. This tiny camera can go underwater, when it’s in its protective housing, be dropped from the top of a building and even stepped on without breaking. If you’re thinking that you have to be an extreme sports athlete to own a GoPro, that’s just not true. The pocket-sized handheld, mountable camera is a great for any lifestyle.
