In property, we often talk about longevity and sustainability, investing in homes and features that stand the test of time.
The same thinking now applies to technology. Artificial intelligence (AI) could transform the way we use devices, helping us move away from the wasteful cycle of constant upgrades.
For decades, technology has trapped us in a cycle of upgrades. Each year, new devices quietly push last year’s models toward redundancy. Features slow down, updates stop working, and perfectly functional hardware gets tossed aside.
Artificial intelligence could change that.
Unlike apps or operating systems that depend on the latest chips, most AI systems now live in the cloud. This means the newest features do not necessarily require the newest devices. A ten-year-old phone or refurbished laptop can often deliver the same AI-powered answers as a brand-new flagship model.
A Shift with Big Benefits
This shift matters far beyond convenience:
- Reducing e-waste: The world discarded over 60 million tonnes of electronics in 2023, much of it still usable. Extending the life of devices could prevent millions of tonnes of unnecessary waste.
- Environmental sustainability: Keeping a smartphone for an extra two years can save around 70 kg of CO₂e. Extending a laptop’s life by three years saves around 300 kg. Multiply that across millions of devices, and the environmental impact is enormous.
- Wider accessibility: If AI tools work on older or cheaper devices, more people globally can benefit without needing the latest hardware.
Resistance from Big Tech
Some tech companies are already limiting advanced AI tools to their most expensive models. But in the long run, consumers are likely to choose accessibility over restriction. AI is not about fashion, it is about infrastructure that makes intelligence available anywhere there is a signal.
What This Means for Everyday Life
For households, this shift means more than just saving money on gadgets. It is a reminder that sustainability and longevity matter. The same mindset applies to property: investing in lasting quality, whether in a home, appliances, or technology, reduces waste, saves money, and benefits the planet.
So next time you dust off an older device, give it a try. You might be surprised how powerful it still is in the AI era. Obsolescence may no longer be inevitable.
This article was adapted from an original piece by Robert May, published on 15 September 2025.