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Why We’re Holding onto Our Smartphones Longer: A Look at the Galaxy S21 FE

According to a Statista graph, the average smartphone upgrade cycle in the US has been steadily increasing since 2022. People are holding onto their devices for longer, and it’s not hard to see why. With high-end smartphones consistently carrying four-figure price tags, spending over $1,000 on a device you plan to replace in a year or two feels extravagant. However, keeping a phone for five years or more? That’s a decision that makes financial sense.

I’ve been using a Samsung Galaxy S21 FE as my work phone for over a year, and I have no plans to swap it out anytime soon. This isn’t a flagship device—it’s a cut-down model, three generations old, and was never the top-tier phone when it launched. Yet, it still performs admirably in 2025. Here’s why this phone, and others like it, are proving that smartphones are getting better at aging gracefully.

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The Shift in Smartphone Longevity

You probably know someone still using an older iPhone with those chunky top and bottom bezels. There’s a reason for that: iPhones stay functional long after their initial contract period. Their cameras, performance, and compatibility with the latest apps and updates keep them relevant. But it’s not just Apple anymore—Samsung, Google, and others have quietly been making their phones more viable for long-term use. The old marketing tactic of convincing consumers they need a new phone every year is losing its grip, and the data backs this up.

Despite having access to premium devices like the Google Pixel 8 Pro or the latest Galaxy models, I keep coming back to my S21 FE. It runs Android 14 with Samsung’s One UI 6, and it’s slated to receive Android 15 later this year, along with another year of security patches. This means no app compatibility issues are on the horizon. More importantly, in daily use, I haven’t encountered significant slowdowns or crashes. This phone doesn’t feel like it’s holding me back.

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Practical Design for Everyday Use

The S21 FE’s design is a big part of why it works so well for me. Its plastic back and sturdy metal rails mean I don’t bother with a case, making it more pocketable—a huge plus since I carry it everywhere. The lower price tag (now less than $250 on the used market) also means I’m not overly precious about it. A scuff or scrape here and there doesn’t bother me, which is refreshing. I don’t want my tech to slow me down, and this phone doesn’t.

Cameras That Still Deliver

As a videographer, cameras are crucial to me. While the S21 FE’s cameras aren’t the best on the market, they’re still impressive for a phone of its age and price. The main sensor, shared with the full-fat Galaxy S21, captures solid photos and videos. I’ve used it to shoot social media footage, including Ultra HD 60p and 30p video, when I’m out in the field without my professional camera. The selfie camera even supports portrait video, isolating subjects for TikToks or Reels without needing post-editing—a neat trick for a budget-friendly, older model.

The ancillary cameras (ultrawide and telephoto) are weaker, with less dynamic range and some oversharpening compared to modern mid-rangers or flagship killers. But at a quarter of the cost of a 2024 flagship, the value is undeniable. For $250, you’re getting a phone with two years of updates left and cameras that can still compete.

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A Display That Holds Up

The S21 FE’s 6.4-inch Full HD+ 120Hz AMOLED display is a standout feature. It’s fast, bright, and sharp, and thanks to Samsung’s excellent color calibration, it’s vibrant and enjoyable. The high refresh rate keeps the phone feeling snappy, even compared to newer devices. Whether I’m scrolling through apps or watching the occasional video, this display holds its own. It’s a reminder that a well-calibrated screen can make a phone feel fresh long after its release.

Battery Life and Maintenance

Battery life on older phones like the S21 FE can vary depending on how the device has been treated. If it’s been kept above 80% charge, fast-charged frequently, or used with wireless charging (which generates more heat), the battery may show wear. The good news? A replacement battery costs around $150—far less than a new phone. With a fresh battery, the S21 FE can deliver all-day performance, making it a cost-effective way to extend the phone’s life.

The Slowdown in Smartphone Innovation

The broader trend here is that smartphone innovation has plateaued. Unlike the early days of Android (think Galaxy S3 era), today’s phones age much better. System-on-chips have been fast enough for years, high refresh rate displays are standard, and camera systems haven’t seen massive leaps in recent generations. Incremental improvements are real, but they’re rarely game-changing. When was the last time a phone launch felt like a must-buy moment? For me, it was the Pixel 6 Pro for its premium design and periscope zoom, or maybe the Huawei Mate 20 Pro before that. Today’s phones are excellent, but they’re not revolutionary compared to devices from a few years ago.

Companies like Google, Samsung, and OnePlus are also stepping up with longer software update policies. The Pixel 8 and Galaxy S24, for example, offer extended support, putting Android devices on par with iPhones for long-term viability. Combine that with specs like 16 GB or even 24 GB of RAM in some phones, and it’s clear modern smartphones are built to last.

Why Upgrade?

If you own a high-end smartphone, ask yourself, will a new phone meaningfully improve your life? Can it do something your current device can’t? For most people, the answer is no. Phones like my Galaxy S21 FE are proof that even a mid-tier, three-year-old device can still feel great in 2025. It’s not the flashiest, but it gets the job done without compromise.

What older smartphones are you still rocking? Got a Galaxy S10e or OnePlus 7T? I’d love to hear about it. Share your thoughts, and let’s celebrate the devices that prove smartphones are getting better at getting old.