Outdated Tech, Limited Access
The Chromebook the school provided two years ago no longer runs the software this year's classes require. The laptop that was fine for basic tasks cannot handle video calls. The smartphone that was current when purchased now runs too slowly to use effectively. Technology ages, and as it ages, it excludes.
The Obsolescence Problem
Technology becomes obsolete through multiple mechanisms:
Software requirements: New software versions require more processing power, memory, and storage than older devices provide. Operating system updates may not support older hardware.
Security vulnerabilities: Devices that no longer receive security updates become vulnerable to attacks. Using them for sensitive activities—banking, healthcare, government services—becomes risky.
Website and app requirements: Websites and apps may require browsers or operating systems that do not run on older devices. Features may not work; sites may not load.
Hardware degradation: Batteries lose capacity. Screens dim. Components fail. Physical wear makes devices harder to use.
Who Is Affected
Low-income households: People who cannot afford frequent device replacement keep devices longer. By the time they can afford replacement, their devices may be significantly behind current requirements.
Schools and libraries: Public institutions often have technology refresh cycles of 5-7 years or longer. Devices provided to students or available to the public may be generations behind current technology.
Seniors: Older adults may be reluctant to replace familiar devices, may not know their devices are outdated, or may not be able to afford replacement.
Rural and remote communities: Technology distribution and support may lag in areas far from urban centers.
Consequences of Outdated Technology
Exclusion from services: Websites and applications that do not work on older devices effectively exclude users of those devices. Government services, educational platforms, and essential applications may become inaccessible.
Security risks: Using devices without current security updates exposes users to malware, fraud, and data theft. People who cannot afford secure devices face higher security risks.
Frustration and abandonment: Slow, unreliable devices frustrate users. Some give up on digital activities rather than struggle with inadequate technology.
Educational disadvantage: Students with older devices cannot access the same resources as students with current technology. Technology requirements create educational inequality.
Approaches to the Problem
Device Subsidy Programs
Programs that provide devices to low-income households, students, or seniors can ensure access to current technology. Canada's Computers for Schools program refurbishes donated equipment; other programs provide new devices.
Challenges include funding sustainability, keeping pace with technology change, and reaching those who need help.
Right to Repair
When devices can be repaired rather than replaced—batteries changed, screens fixed, storage expanded—they last longer. The right to repair movement advocates for repairable design, available parts, and access to repair information.
Manufacturers often design devices to be difficult to repair, pushing users toward replacement.
Extended Software Support
Software companies can extend support for older operating systems and devices. Some do so for enterprise customers; consumer support often ends earlier.
Open source software may run on older hardware than commercial alternatives, extending device usefulness.
Accessible Design
Websites and applications designed for accessibility often work better on older or lower-powered devices. Fast-loading, simple designs serve both accessibility and inclusion goals.
The Question
If technology advances leave those with older devices behind, and if the ability to keep current depends on resources not everyone has, then technology obsolescence is an equity issue. How should device affordability and longevity be addressed? What responsibilities do technology companies have to support older devices? And how can essential digital services remain accessible to people without current technology?