Are you still using that two-year-old iPhone SE 3? Go ahead, crack those jokes about it being past its prime—it's nearly reaching the average smartphone lifespan of 2.5 years.
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Before you toss out that aging laptop or smartphone, consider giving it a new lease on life. Even as tech ages, there are ways to breathe fresh functionality into it.
1. **Expand Your Cloud Storage**: Modern phones often lack memory card slots, but you can still free up space by utilizing cloud storage. Services like Google One (starting at $2 for 100GB) for Android users and iCloud+ (starting at $1 for 50GB) for iPhone users offer secure backups and additional space. Consider sharing an iCloud+ account with family members to save money.
2. **Revive Old Speakers**: Don't rush to buy expensive wireless speaker systems. Instead, add a Bluetooth adapter like an Esinkin model to your old wired speakers. This simple upgrade enables streaming from your phone or computer, blending modern convenience with classic sound.
3. **Eliminate Wi-Fi Dead Zones**: Extend your router's wireless signal with a Wi-Fi extender like the TP-Link RE305. It's a cost-effective solution for improving connectivity without investing in a new router or mesh system.
4. **Upgrade Your TV**: Bring any TV into the streaming age with devices like Google Chromecast with Google TV, Amazon Fire TV Stick, or Apple TV 4K. These options transform your old TV into a smart, streaming-ready device through its HDMI port.
5. **Enhance Your Workstation**: Improve your productivity by upgrading your workstation. Consider investing in a comfortable keyboard, a larger monitor for more screen space, and an ergonomic laptop stand to reduce neck strain.
6. **Boost PC Performance**: Upgrade your computer's RAM for a significant performance boost. Swapping out current RAM sticks for faster, higher-capacity ones can alleviate freezing and sluggishness, though it requires opening up your computer.
7. **Expand Console Storage**: Gamers can increase storage on PlayStation and Xbox consoles with additional storage options. For PS5, consider installing an M.2 SSD card like the WD Black SN850 following Sony's instructions. On Xbox Series X or S, purchase a compatible expansion card like the Seagate one and follow Microsoft's instructions.
Stay up-to-date with the latest in technology by tuning into the Kim Komando Show, the nation's largest weekend radio talk show. Kim provides expert advice on smartphones, tablets, online privacy, and more. For daily tips, free newsletters, and more, visit her website.
