How long does a mobile phone last? 4 tips to maximize its lifespan and prevent e-waste!

Electronic waste is a global problem. With the constant development of technology and the fast-paced nature of our society’s consumerism habits, the constant exchange of electronic products, such as mobile phones, has become a reality, as well as e-waste. 

In this article, we’ll explore ways to extend the life of your mobile phone, so you can save money, protect the environment, and do your part to reduce e-waste.

Electronic waste — a growing issue 

E-waste is becoming a major global problem, and it’s important to be aware of it and take steps to reduce it. Also known as electronic waste, e-waste describes any discarded electronic product or component that is no longer useful. This includes computers, televisions, mobile phones, tablets, printers, and smaller items such as batteries, light bulbs, and small appliances. 

E-waste is a growing problem due to the rapid pace of product improvement and the urge to replace older devices with newer models. “The recent statistics and figures are alarming and raise serious concern: 

• In the United States, it’s estimated that Americans throw away more than 9.4 million tons of e-waste yearly.
• In Europe, it’s estimated that 12.3 million tons of e-waste is generated annually.
• In Africa, it’s estimated that around 50 million metric tons of e-waste is generated annually.

If not disposed of and handled correctly, these devices can be dangerous to human health and the environment, as many electronic devices contain toxic materials. Plus, it’s also a waste of money for consumers who have to replace their phones more frequently than necessary. 

How to make your mobile phone last longer? 

1. Take care of the battery 

One of the easiest ways to extend the life of your mobile phone is to keep the battery in good condition. A healthy battery can last several years, but it’s important to avoid overcharging or letting it drain completely.  A battery constantly drained to 0% can lose capacity over time. It’s best to charge your phone when the battery level drops to around 20-30%. 

Another way to extend the battery’s life is to avoid exposing the phone to extreme temperatures, hot or cold. Avoid leaving your phone in a hot car or direct sunlight for long periods of time, as high temperatures can damage the battery. 

Finally, avoid overcharging your phone. Many modern smartphones are designed to stop charging once the battery reaches full capacity, but older devices may not have this feature. To avoid overcharging your phone, it’s best to unplug it once it reaches 100%. 

2. Keep the screen in good condition 

Another way to extend the life of your mobile phone is to protect the screen. A cracked or broken screen can render a phone unusable, so it’s important to keep the phone in a protective case and avoid dropping it. A protective case or screen protector can help to protect your phone from scratches, dings, and drops. This can help extend your phone’s life and keep it looking new.

A phone with a metal body is less likely to crack or break if it’s dropped than a plastic one. Metal is a strong and durable material that can withstand regular use’s everyday wear and tear. A phone with a metal body can also help extend its life by protecting it from damage. 

Some e-STAR mobile phones are made with metal bodies to ensure more robustness, strength, and protection. Check eSTAR X35 and the ROCK Rugged phone made to last even in the harshest environments.

3. Keep it clean and far from liquids 

Dust and debris can accumulate in the ports and buttons of your phone, which can cause damage over time. Clean your phone regularly with a soft, dry cloth to remove particles and grime. Water and other liquids can cause serious damage to your phone, so avoid using it near water or in damp environments, and be sure to dry your phone immediately if it does get wet.

4. Software updates 

Keeping your phone’s software updated is an important aspect of device maintenance. Regular updates can help enhance your phone’s performance, fix bugs, and add new features. These updates ensure that your device is running smoothly and efficiently, which can help to extend its lifespan and keep it functioning optimally. Additionally, software updates often address security vulnerabilities, which can help to protect your phone from potential cyber threats. 

eSTAR Mobile Phones — made to last 

We are doing our part in combating e-waste by offering durable and resistant products and encouraging and enjoying the circular economy. 

• We use resistant materials in our phones 

eSTAR mobile phones are known for their durability and resistance to wear and tear. One of the main reasons for this is their metal body construction.  A phone with a metal body can help to protect the phone from damage and extend its lifespan.

• Replacement batteries for mobile phones

In addition to the metal body, eSTAR mobile phones also feature replaceable batteries. This allows you to easily replace the battery when it loses capacity instead of replacing the entire phone. This can save you money in the long run and also helps to reduce e-waste.

• eSTAR Rugged Phone – made to last in toughest environments 

One of the most durable and resistant eSTAR mobile phones is the eSTAR Ruggged phone, designed to withstand extreme conditions and is perfect for outdoor activities, construction sites, and other demanding environments. The device is IP68 certified, which means it is dust and waterproof, and it can withstand drops and impacts.

• Pre owned phones

Mobile Center, the parent company of eSTAR, has a Pre-Owned Smartphone program. We believe that purchasing a pre-owned smartphone can contribute to environmental sustainability. All our pre-owned smartphones are tested and approved by a certified technician center, have original manufacture IP class, have been reset to factory settings and a hard reset on software, and have a 24-month international warranty.