Are You Ready for the New Phones?
This month and next, Tech Hub will help Senior Planet readers as they face the dizzying array of new phones coming out soon (just in time for the holiday buying season!). This month we’ll look at some criteria to consider when selecting a new phone; next month we’ll look at some of the phones available.
Talking about phones is a lot like talking about cars. There are many different car brands and models; just like cars have different features, so do phones. This month, we’ll explore the most important phone features, the ones you’ll want to consider when choosing a phone that’s right for you.
Tip 1: Pricing
It’s important to find your budget and stick to it. A new, quality phone can be had without incentives from your phone company for around $500. You might also be able to trade in your current device for a discount on a new one. (Stay tuned to next month’s Tech Hub for more info on refurbished phones!)
Tip 2: Longevity, durability and design
Many phone manufacturers typically commit to supporting a phone with security updates for seven years after its release. So, if you get a phone when it’s released, treat it well so it could last you seven years. To help upkeep, look for phones that have features like water and dust resistance (IP ratings), scratch-resistant glass, and solid build materials (a metal phone versus a plastic one).
Tip 3: A good camera
These days, the camera is one of the most used parts of the phone. Camera image quality can be judged by the number of dots in an image, measured in megapixels (MP). At minimum look for one with at least a 24MP Rear and 13MP Front camera. Also look for a camera with multiple lens/shooting options (wide, ultra-wide, telephoto), and software features like portrait mode, night mode, and AI enhancements if possible.
Tip 4: Battery life
Long-lasting battery life is crucial for users who rely on their phones throughout the day. While battery technology has vastly improved, it’s not perfect. When possible, look for a phone with a 4000mAh battery (mAh means milliampere-hour and is a unit that measures electric power over time). Also look for features like fast-charging capabilities, and when possible, Qi2 wireless charging battery health monitoring features.
Tip 5: Display size and quality
To find a phone with a screen size that’s right for you, it’s smart to visit a store and do a hands-on test. Is the screen a comfortable size for viewing? How does it feel in your hand? You’re not likely to be able to see the difference between screen types like LED, OLED or AMOLED, so no need to focus on that.
Tip 6: Security and privacy features
With growing concerns about data protection, users increasingly value robust security options. Look for options like fingerprint scanners and facial recognition technology. Additionally, features like camera and mic toggles, regular security updates, and VPN or virtual private networks contribute can help contribute to peace of mind.
Tip 7: Accessibility
If you’re able to, get a new phone that comes with new features like live captioning, real-time text, or guided frame that can help users with dexterity challenges to tap accurately.
Bonus Tip: Look for interoperability. If you have other devices you own, like hearing aids, medical devices or smartwatches and make sure it’s going to work well with those devices.
These are the main issues to consider when buying a new phone, but by no means the only ones. Do your research, ask questions if you are buying at a store and do your homework. Next month, we’ll cover the main new phones coming out in time for holiday.
YOUR TURN
What qualities matter to you most when selecting a phone? Share your thoughts in the comments!
Jeff Rose is the Director of Special Initiatives at Older Adults Technology Services (OATS) from AARP. He has been at the forefront of the intersection between aging and technology for more than 15 years in a range of settings, including life-plan communities, community-based organizations, and an age-tech startup. Based in Chicago, Jeff is active in a variety of local aging and community organizations and enjoys sharing his knowledge about how technology can impact and benefit older adults.
The content on the Senior Planet website is intended strictly for general informational purposes and does not constitute an endorsement or warranty regarding privacy, security, permissions, or changes in terms of service. Please scrutinize each app’s or device’s privacy policy, terms of use, data collection or other permissions before downloading or using the app or the device.
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Comments
First if all, Jeff is not old enough to fully understand us over 65 or 70 (I just turned 71 last week); secondly, I have never and will never pay $500 for a phone which lasts only two years, at best! I use Apple devices and be erected buy the newest thing!
I have had a 4, an SE, a second gen SE and now another new SE, which is one year old, battery already taking a crap and it’s got another year to be paid off!
I’m sure Apple does something to their phones to make the batteries lose longevity.
I’m recently on Medi- Cal they gave me a cloud mobile phone for free for emergencies but don’t know how to use it because I can’t read the small booklet.
I became wheelchair bound Jan 2025.
Why doesn’t senior planet have classes on things like tablets etc that are available to seniors for free?
Basically I’m asking if you could be a resource for items we need to make our lives easier.
Hello Denise. Congratulations on obtaining that cloud mobile phone. We understand that reading the manual can be challenging for many reasons, including the small print. We encourage you to use all of Senior Planet’s resources. One of them aligns to your need and that is the Senior Planet Hotline. The hotline handles tech support calls and they can get you going on setting up your device. The number to the Senior Planet Hotline is 888-713-3495. We look forward to helping you.
Thank you for this informative article.
Why no mention of low cost prepaid phones which are typically less than $500? I think phones from Consumer Cellular, mint, tello, and other providers are under $500. Many of these low cost providers target seniors in their advertisements.
Would appreciate info on phones these service providers offer. Thank you.
Hello Karen. You are correct in that Consumer Cellular does provide devices at more affordable rates. Thank you for that recommendation and we will pass that recommendation off to the appropriate department to share that information accordingly.
Excellent article. It’s printed & filed away for 10-1-2026, when I’ll be be replacing my Google Pixel 6…if security updates do stop.
But, isn’t QI 1 or QI 2 charging a useless consideration if
the phone has an add-on protective case? (Mine does, always. It must, always.)
Are add-on magnetic rings I’ve seen for Q1 and -2 support but not useful if there’s a stick-on thingy on the back of the case so that the phone can safely be held over a ledge or on a moving boat or such.
Thanks