Smartphones are not a luxury anymore; they’ve become a part of our essential life today. It not only holds conversations with friends and family but also important data shared at work. Thanks to technology, it also can act as a digital wallet for you, so if you don’t have cash, you can easily pay through several apps installed on the phone. While we know the pros, let’s look at some smartphone habits that should be stopped at the earliest.

Regularly checking the phone
Many of us are guilty of checking our phone. Nothing to do? Check your phone. Waiting for someone? Check your phone. Been 5 mins since you touched the phone? Check your phone. Browsing through the phone can be addictive and can also fuel anxious behavior. Being controlled by notifications on your smartphone will keep you away from enjoying the present and pleasant moments around you. This obsession often leads to ignoring people in social gatherings while completely engrossed in your phone. Give yourself some off-screen time and try to build discipline around it.

Social media binge
Most people are on social media these days, and while it is a great tool to stay trendy and have a creative outlet, it can also be addictive for some people. According to some studies, social media also causes some anxiety and paranoia, especially amongst teenagers and young adults. One should try to filter out any negative content. Social media can be used for more constructive purposes rather than only looking for validation.

Scrolling through apps aimlessly
Have you noticed yourself mindlessly scrolling through social media apps even though you know you’re not retaining any of the information that is being thrown at you? Night-time scrolling is especially troublesome because it hinders the sleep cycle for many. It is also advised that our smartphones or other electronic devices should not be near our beds as they are known to emit harmful blue light. If keeping your device completely away from you is not possible, at least keep it away on the side table and choose not to engage in any online activity an hour before you plan to go to bed. Let your mind rest.

Unhygienic screen
While we are now accustomed to using sanitizer on our hands, we forget that we also need to make sure our phone screens are clean. We are constantly tapping on it, getting it close to our face and ear, and it may become a hotbed of germs we want to avoid. So always make sure your phone screen is kept clean.

Bad posture
While holding our smartphones is super easy and convenient, sometimes it can lead to a bad body posture. Bending your neck to text, read or watch content on your phone can potentially cause a text neck— a condition in which the neck remains in a bad posture leading to neck and shoulder pain. Observe your posture when you are on your device for long periods and correct it before it becomes a habit.

Another habit to avoid is paying for phone plans without doing any research. Many smartphone owners make this common mistake. The plan you purchased might sometimes be contractual, and you’ll be stuck with it until the course runs out. Researching a competent 5G phone plan and sticking to reliable carriers like Verizon can benefit you. The brand offers unlimited nationwide 5G plans for as low as $35/month per line.

Popular smartphones available for trade-in offers

Apple iPhone SE (3rd generation)
The 3rd generation iPhone SE has been a compact crowd favorite ever since its launch on March 18 this year. For a stellar price of $429, you get a decent 4.7-inch display, impressive upgrades, 5G connectivity, and up to 256Gb of storage.

Apple iPhone 14
The iPhone 14 Pro and 14 Pro Max, launched on September 16, are available now for $999 and $1099. These smartphones are Apple’s latest upgrade in terms of design and technology, with the latest A16 bionic chip, 1TB storage option, and an enhanced camera setup. You can also consider the iPhone 14, if you are looking for a low-cost phone in the series.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4
Priced at just $799 with eligible trade-in offers, the latest Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4 is a stylish foldable touchscreen device with a large dual immersive display. Powered by the fastest processor in this year’s lineup, the Galaxy Z Fold is compatible with the innovative S pen turning it into a functional mini tab.

Google Pixel 6A and 7
The Google Pixel 6A, on sale since July 28 2022, is priced at just under $349 with available offers and is a returning crowd favorite. Also, the new Google Pixel 7, launched on October 13, is on sale for $599 and boasts a stunning AMOLED 90Hz display, a faster processor, and an ultra-cinematic camera setup.

For some demographics, such as seniors, ease of access is essential in a smartphone. That is where the Jitterbug Smart3 smartphone comes in. With a large display and voice typing capabilities, this device by Lively Direct is a premium product at an affordable price. Buyers can find it retailing for just $149.99 across several retailers nationwide.