(ThyBlackMan.com) Whenever you hear about the latest flagship phone to hit the market, you experience an overwhelming sense of excitement and disappointment. You’re excited because you want to own that new shiny piece of tech and check out all of its improved features. You’re disappointed because you’d have to take on another job just to buy it.
There’s still hope. The rumor mill is buzzing with talks of an upcoming Google line, which is expected to be a lot cheaper than the company’s other ranges.
Nothing has been officially announced yet, but the rumors say that Google is coming up with a Pixel 3 Lite line. Other sites have reported that the phones will be called Pixel 3a instead of Pixel 3 Lite. Whatever the name, the smartphone series is expected to be much kinder on the wallet than current options on the market. The Verge estimates that the price range could $600 to $700, while Android Central has estimated $400 to $500.
It’s a clever move from Google because smartphone prices are climbing higher and higher with every new release. Flagship phones are more than $1000 right off the bat. That doesn’t include accessories, warranties or upgrades.
The exorbitant prices make the smartphone the latest status symbol used to demonstrate a recognizable degree of wealth, success and cultural relevance. Instead of Louis Vuitton purses and Rolex watches, the iPhone is the ultimate item to show off. The National Bureau of Economic Research found that owning an iPhone is closely associated with having a higher education and income than the average citizen.
Having the latest upgrade means that they can afford to replace their phone every single year that a new one comes out. It also means that the user has their finger on the pulse. They are ahead of the trends or jumping on the bandwagon at just the right moment, instead of lagging a year or two behind.
A lot of tech-fans can’t keep up. BGR reported that the phone upgrade cycle has extended in recent years, meaning that users are waiting much longer to get a new phone to save money and make the most out of their purchase. In 2016, the average user waited just over 2 years before heading to the store for another smartphone. Last year, that waiting period jumped to almost 3 years.
For some, the timing of the Pixel 3 Lite release may be too soon. You want to wait a few years before you get rid of your Pixel 3 and find the latest upgrade. If you’re hoping for your Pixel 3 to last you for the long-run, all you need to do is take good care of it. Run the software updates. Only download verified apps. Give it a screen protector and a premium vinyl skin.
A unique vinyl skin can also make your Pixel stand out for an incredibly low price — to give some perspective it will cost less than a main course at a chain restaurant. Your phone will look completely fresh, even after new and improved versions have been released. Any time you get tired of the skin, you can swap it for a gorgeous new design. Start with Black Matrix, then Green Carbon Fiber, then White Marble and then Gold. And so on. Imagine the possibilities.
As tempting as those luxury smartphones are, you don’t want to empty your bank account just to have the latest status symbol sitting in your pocket. It’s much wiser to wait it out and upgrade your current phone in small, affordable ways. If you want to get a new phone, you can hold out for Google’s cheaper line to finally arrive.
Staff Writer; Derrick Jacobs
