Refuse to buy a new phone in 2026 -- here's what changed

A new argument for skipping smartphone upgrades is gaining traction: instead of buying a new phone in 2026, many users may not need one now. The article says smartphone hardware changes have become incremental—citing that Samsung’s Ultra line from the S20 Ultra to the Galaxy S26 Ultra uses the same 5,000 mAh battery size—while screens, cameras and battery life are already strong. It also argues software has plateaued; big jumps like early Android versions or major iOS redesigns are less common. With fewer compelling hardware advances, higher prices, and RAM shortages affecting availability and performance, the writer suggests replacing phones only when they break or stop receiving support.