A Revolutionary Approach to Phone Longevity

Most people swap out their smartphones every 2.5 years, but what if you could stretch that to five? This is the rallying cry from iFixit, a do-it-yourself tech supplier, and Back Market, a leader in refurbished devices, as they launch a campaign just in time for Earth Day on April 22.

The Environmental Impact of Upgrading

The focus of their initiative is simple yet powerful: keep your phone for five years instead of the standard two to three. By doing so, you could cut your device's carbon footprint significantly. For instance, keeping an iPhone 13 for an extra 2.5 years while replacing its battery could reduce CO2 emissions by 49%, avoiding a staggering 15.6 million tons of emissions annually. If maintained for up to 10 years with proper repairs, the reduction could soar to 68%.

Empowering Consumers with Repair Solutions

To help consumers embrace this change, Back Market will now feature iFixit's easy-to-follow repair guides, starting with iPhone repairs. This means before opting for a new device, you can check if a simple battery or screen replacement will do the trick. Many people are unaware that most common repairs are straightforward and can be done at home.

Exclusive Access to Tools and Trade-In Options

Additionally, consumers can purchase iFixit’s repair toolkit directly from Back Market. And for those who feel overwhelmed with DIY repairs, they'll find convenient options to trade in their old devices for refurbished models.

A Shared Vision for Sustainable Tech Consumption

According to Thibaud Hug de Larauze, CEO of Back Market, "We share a vision to extend the life of tech products." With a growing urgency to resist the fast-track upgrade cycle, this campaign offers a compelling alternative.

The Bigger Picture Amid Trade Turmoil

This announcement comes at a time of fluctuating trade relationships between the US and China. Even as tariffs on new electronics like smartphones remain a concern, the demand for refurbished devices has surged, with sales tripling recently due to fears of rising prices. While the used smartphone market remains resilient, repairs could become pricier as parts are often sourced internationally.

Join the Right-to-Repair Movement

Now is a pivotal moment for the right-to-repair movement. Currently, 41 repair bills are in progress across 20 states, which, if passed, would compel manufacturers to enhance the repairability of their products. This would mean better access to essential tools, manuals, and spare parts for everyday consumers.

In essence, with the landscape of tech consumption evolving, there has never been a better time to learn how to extend the life of your devices and consciously contribute to a greener planet.