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Is it time to upgrade your iPhone? Our quiz can help you decide.

Save money and help the environment by only getting a new smartphone when it’s necessary

(Washington Post illustration; iStock)

By Heather Kelly and 

Chris Alcantara

Updated Sept. 7 at 8:44 p.m.Originally published Sept. 7, 2022

Apple’s new iPhone 14 has all the usual tweaks and upgrades you’ve come to expect from an annual update, including a better camera and interesting new features such as the ability to detect when you’ve been in a car crash. It’s tempting, but do you actually need it?

A new smartphone is a major purchase that can cost anywhere from $200 to $2,000. The companies that make and sell the devices would like you to believe it’s necessary to shell out for a new one every couple of years. In reality, a smartphone can live a long and fulfilling life with proper maintenance and, if needed, a few repairs.

[Our tech columnist Geoffrey A. Fowler spent a little time with the iPhone 14. Here are his key takeaways]

Go easy on your wallet and the environment by only buying new devices when you really need them. To help you decide when that time has come,the Help Desk has made this quiz to guide you.

QUESTION 1 OF 5

How old is your phone?

To find the date of purchase for a new iPhone, log into Apple’s support site and select your device. For an Android phone, log into the Play Store or your Google Account. If you bought a used phone, use the year that model was released.2 years old or less3 to 4 years old5 to 6 years old7+ years old

QUESTION 2 OF 5

Is anything wrong with your phone?

Select all that applyBroken screenBroken speakers, camera, displayBattery dies quicklySlow phoneNo storage spaceOther external issues like scratches or dentsOther internal issues such as overheating or shutdownsNone of the above

QUESTION 3 OF 5

How important is camera quality to you?Very. Photography is my jam, and I need high-resolution files and great video.Somewhat. I like to take and share photos but don’t care about advanced options.Not at all. I don’t take many photos.

QUESTION 4 OF 5

What features are you currently missing and willing to spend money for?

Select all that apply5G network accessEmergency satellite connectionWireless chargingNone of the above

QUESTION 5 OF 5

How important is it that you be seen with the newest phone?Not importantVery important

You need to answer every question to see your result. You’re missing questions 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5.