Smartphones: Experts recommend five‑year use as budget Moto G Play drops to $100

Analysts note that modern smartphones are built to remain functional for five years or more, with incremental yearly upgrades and longer software support cycles reducing the need for annual replacements. A 2025 survey found the average American keeps a phone for about 29 months, but extending use to five years maximizes value and aligns with the devices' durability.

Meanwhile, Motorola’s 2024 Moto G Play LTE is being offered at Best Buy for $100, a $50 discount from its original price. The budget phone features a Qualcomm Snapdragon 680 processor, 4 GB RAM, a 6.5‑inch HD+ 90 Hz display, Dolby Atmos speakers and a 5,000 mAh battery that can last several days on a single charge. It lacks 5G connectivity, but reviewers rate the deal 4 out of 5 for its solid performance and long battery life, positioning it as a reliable low‑cost primary or backup device.