Think Your Tech is Failing You? It’s All Part of the Strategy Called 'Planned Obsolescence'

Imagine a world where your smartphone, car, or favourite gadget is designed to last a lifetime. Sounds ideal, right? But here’s the catch: in reality, many products are purposefully designed to fail or seem outdated, nudging you to upgrade to the latest version. This calculated approach is what we call planned obsolescence.

Planned obsolescence is the deliberate design of products with a limited lifespan. The term was coined in 1932 by American businessman Bernard London and has evolved to describe strategies such as hardware that wears out quickly, software updates that slow older devices, or marketing campaigns that make current models feel outdated. While these tactics sustain profits for manufacturers, they often stifle innovation by discouraging the development of longer-lasting, more efficient technologies. Furthermore, planned obsolescence can limit competition by creating barriers for smaller players or disruptors who aim to challenge the status quo with sustainable alternatives.

The concept isn’t new. In the 1920s, the lightbulb cartel—known as the “Phoebus cartel”—essentially rewrote the rules of durability. This group wasn’t just any coalition; it brought together Osram (Germany), Philips (Netherlands), and General Electric (United States), creating the first truly global cartel. Their mission? To ensure lightbulbs burned out faster. By early 1925, they had set the lifespan of a standard household bulb at 1,000 hours—a significant downgrade from the 1,500 to 2,000 hours that were previously common. This decision wasn’t about improving technology; it was about ensuring customers would keep coming back for replacements. This historical example mirrors modern practices, where companies across industries—whether through limiting software compatibility or manufacturing non-repairable devices—continue to manipulate product lifespans to sustain profits.

While planned obsolescence boosts corporate profits, it often comes at a cost to consumers and the environment. Consumers face increased expenses and frustration, leading to diminished trust in brands. Consumers are left with rising expenses, while the planet bears the brunt of increased waste and resource extraction. E-waste, for example, is one of the fastest-growing waste streams globally, with discarded gadgets often ending up in landfills or poorly regulated recycling facilities.

In the tech industry, planned obsolescence is pervasive. Consider Apple, whose devices are often criticised for pressuring consumers to purchase newer models. John Deere, on the other hand, uses software locks on its tractors, limiting farmers' ability to repair their own equipment. These practices drive up costs for users while reducing the lifespan of products.

On the flip side, companies like Framework are leading the charge for sustainability with modular laptops that allow users to upgrade or repair individual components. FAIRPHONE is another great example, creating smartphones that are both durable and repairable. These companies prove that designing for longevity can align with ethical values and consumer needs.

Breaking the Cycle

The good news? Change is possible. Here’s how:

1. Right to Repair: Advocacy for laws that empower consumers to repair their products rather than replace them is gaining momentum globally.
2. Sustainable Design: Companies that prioritise durability, modularity, and upgradability in their designs can stand out as ethical leaders.
3. Consumer Awareness: As buyers, we can demand transparency and support brands that align with our values.

Planned obsolescence doesn’t have to be the norm. By rethinking how we design, market, and consume products, we can move toward a more sustainable future. For instance, the European Union’s recent "Right to Repair" legislation mandates manufacturers to provide repair options for consumers, paving the way for longer-lasting products. Similarly, movements like "Repair Cafés" and community-driven repair initiatives around the globe are challenging the throwaway culture and advocating for a circular economy.

What’s your experience with products designed to fail? Share your thoughts in the comments.