is old stuff better?
this week, i took my 5-year-old iPad pro in to the local tech repair shop to get a new battery, because its original battery was draining too fast for my liking. if i'm going to use it for work, it needs to last.
which got me wondering, how much are we undervaluing our old stuff?
between getting this new battery for a 5-year old device that still works wonders, being a regular at thrift stores, and being somewhat of an old tech enthusiast (i'm writing this entry on a genuine windows 7 laptop ;)), i've begun to appreciate older items over new ones. we all know that dreaded term: enshittification: the concept of companies making everything worse and worse over the years. our clothes and toys are made with cheaper materials, our devices stop working properly after owning them for 6 months, and new programs are needlessly frustrating to use.
but then you look at older products. how old are your current computer, phone, and clothes? if they've lasted you 5 years or more, what's the use in buying a new upgrade? (or, "upgrade"...) if it still works fine, still does its job, and still fits you, then you should keep it for as long as you can. if it breaks, get it repaired. don't buy a new one. seek out copies of previous versions of software you want. and cherish your old items for all their worth. chances are, they were made during a time where companies at least pretended to give a hoot. at the very least, get new clothes if your old ones don't fit you anymore. and if you want to get something, get it used from a thrift store or ebay. there are so many old items that are languishing in someone's closet or basement, not seeing use even if they're still in good condition. if their original owner won't use them, then you can.
so, to answer the question, is old stuff better? i would say, for the most part, yes. at least, better than we perceive it. we should all make an effort to make it part of our lives again.