You, savvy internet reader, have likely noticed that Apple released a new iPhone. We’ll admit: It sure is pretty! But should you buy it?
Watch our video, above, and read on for more details.
Apple has sold 1.2 billion iPhones since it launched the first model 10 years ago, which means the company has emitted as much as 100 million tons of CO2 extracting, refining, manufacturing, shipping, and powering phones like the one you are probably reading this on. To cut down on that colossal footprint, we should all be trying to keep these resource-intensive devices in circulation as long as possible. Here’s how to make your smartphone last much longer.
For one thing, keep it from breaking. That means you should use a protective case, keep it dry, and make some simple changes to preserve battery life as long as possible.
If your phone does break, you can fix it! The company iFixit makes guides and tools to help you make your own repairs. (Note: We did this! If we can, you probably can. But know that it takes some elbow grease and comes with a risk of causing extra damage, so there’s no shame in taking your phone to a professional who will repair it for you instead.)
If your phone is truly broken — or it’s just time for that shiny new one — sell it to someone who will use it well. The market for second-hand phones is strong, which is good news for you ($$$$). And even a busted phone contains parts that may be useful for refurbishing other phones or devices, so make sure it ends up in the hands of a responsible recycler. Apple has made efforts to improve the way it recycles its own devices, but a lot of the valuable parts it collects end up shredded to protect proprietary information.
