STACK #250 August 2025

YOUR ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO BUYING A SMARTPHONE continued

TECH FEATURE

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look for phones with dedicated security chips and regular software updates to guard against the latest threats. Do I need a 5G phone? The short answer is yes. 5G is now widely available in most urban areas, offering faster downloads, smoother streaming, and better performance in crowded places like stadiums or city centres. Even if you’re not in a 5G zone, your phone will still run on 4G without issues, but 5G ensures you're future-ready. Most mid-range and flagship phones now include 5G as standard. What should I do with my old phone? Once you’ve made the upgrade, keep your old phone as a backup, hand it down to a friend or sibling, or recycle it responsibly. MobileMuster offers a free, accredited recycling service that ensures your old phone is disposed of in the most environmentally responsible way possible. Also look for trade-in programs that offer a credit toward your new device.

aluminium or titanium – and ultra-tough glass such as Gorilla Glass Victus 2. Many also carry an IP68 water and dust resistance rating, meaning they can withstand splashes or even a quick dunking. For extra peace of mind, a sturdy case and screen protector are smart additions, especially if you’re accident-prone or have kids. Will it keep my data safe? Security is more important than ever, and today’s phones can include biometric unlock options, such as in-display fingerprint sensors and 3D facial recognition. Encrypted backups, app lock features, and secure payment systems like Apple Pay and Google Wallet are other security features to look out for. And if you're privacy-conscious,

Will the battery last all day? Battery life depends on personal usage, and a battery capacity of at least 4,000mAh can deliver all-day performance with general use. A powerful processor, high-res display, or frequent 5G streaming can drain a battery quickly, but many phones have gotten smarter about power management and can include adaptive power-saving modes that adjust performance based on your usage habits, so you can go longer between charges. When it’s time to top up, fast charging can power you up in no time. Many phones support 30W to 80W wired charging, while high-end models can offer rapid wireless charging too. What is Qi wireless charging? Qi (“chee”) wireless charging – now upgraded to Qi2– is a more efficient and faster charging tech. Just place your phone on a certified charging pad or stand and it powers up without the fuss of cables. Qi charging also helps reduce wear and tear on your phone’s port, and many pads can charge multiple devices at once, like smartwatches and earbuds. Is it durable enough?

From accidental drops to water splashes and dusty pockets, your phone should be tough enough to survive everyday life. Most high-end smartphones now feature reinforced frames – often

16 AUGUST 2025

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