Productivity Drag
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Device Hoarding in America: The Economic Costs
Consumers and corporations are holding onto tech devices longer, driven by cost savings and economic uncertainty. While seemingly beneficial, this “device hoarding” can negatively impact productivity. Outdated technology leads to slower speeds, strained networks, and lost working hours. Experts suggest solutions like repairable designs, refurbishment programs, and BYOD policies to mitigate these effects and promote a more sustainable and efficient tech ecosystem, balancing affordability with economic dynamism. The rise of AI also incentivizes upgrades despite these challenges.