A decade after the first iPhone, Apple was set to introduce a new device on Tuesday (September 12). The redesigned high-tech iPhone, which was expected to come at a high price — up to about 1,000 euros, according to some analysts — will be launched alongside two other new phones: an upgraded iPhone Watch and a higher definition Apple TV. <br /><br />The new launch comes amid accusations that the tech industry, which includes Apple, engages in a business strategy known as planned obsolescence, which deliberately shortens the lifespan of tech devices so consumers buy the latest ‘improved’ version, resulting in higher corporate profits. <br /><br />According to the Daily Mail, a 2014 study “analysed worldwide searches for ‘iPhone slow’ and found that the search term spiked significantly around the time of new iPhone launch.”<br /><br />The practice of planned obsolescence dates back the 1920s automotive industry when drivers were encouraged by General Motors to trade in cars long before their useful lives were over.<br /><br />Losing its edge<br /><br />Apple hopes its new high-end, high-cost phone, expected to be called the iPhone X, will silence critics who say the company has lost its innovative edge. <br /><br />It features an edge-to-edge display with richer colors and facial recognition to unlock the phone without the need for a fingerprint reader or physical home button.<br /><br />The two other models, expected to be called the iPhone 8 and iPhone 8 Plus, are intended to update the iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus. They could also include some new features, such as a glass back similar to the iPhone 4 that would help facilitate wireless charging.<br /><br />Planned obsolescence has led to ridiculous product cycles, and it’s time to say enough is enough https://t.co/rMauROVSly— adamjohnstonwpg (@adamjohnstonwpg) June 7, 2017<br />
