Smartphones are the need of the hour because, in today’s fast-paced urban lifestyle setting, it’s impossible not to have one. These gadgets are helpful because, in this digital era, most of the work is done online. However, certain smartphone habits may negatively impact you in the long run by hampering your ability to function without one daily. Here are five instances where most smartphone users can relate to the negative impacts of excessive usage.

Constantly checking phone
While the deceptively harmless habit may look like you are trying to jump-start on all activities, you’ll often spend more time checking every single message or email. Also, the constant information overload from the various social media updates or news, in general, is not a very productive habit. Some updates could also trigger a sense of missing out that might hamper work productivity and negatively impact mood.

Using your phone as an alarm
Buy a basic alarm clock because it only costs a couple of bucks. And more than money, the idea behind not using your smartphone as an alarm is simple. Often, after pressing that snooze button three to five times before eventually getting up, you’ll be tempted to check any notifications. Before you have even brushed and had a cup of coffee or tea, you’ll delay all essential morning chores by simply picking up the phone.

Over-dependence
With each installed app, from contact storage to calendar reminders, dedicated to-do lists, and even automatic payment scheduling, smartphone usage is increasing daily. But these subconscious habits might affect your ability to devise creative solutions. Ever wondered what will happen if your phone battery runs out? Will you be able to remember important contacts or know how to navigate without maps? One should decrease phone reliance for every basic activity to get through the day.

Using the phone before bed
Just as it is bad to check notifications as you wake up, using your phone constantly for hours before bed can affect sleep quality. This is because your mind will not get adequate time to relax. Every audio-visual cue will run in a loop, especially if you have been watching something with headphones at high volume. Then, there is the added problem of missing out on content you haven’t checked yet. It will be already past midnight when you have gone through all this!

Ignoring software updates
Sometimes, a lack of attention to software updates can damage your phone. Your phone may not function up to expectations if you haven’t downloaded the latest application and operating system updates. These updates fix critical security issues and bugs that could potentially leak sensitive data. Therefore, it is advised to keep your phone updated constantly.

Latest phones and service plans
Since most of the work these days requires smartphone support, it is important to have a gadget with the latest features that support all your requirements. If you are yet to own a smartphone, it is always advised to purchase from the latest options available so that you won’t miss out on anything. Check out some of the best smartphone choices below.

Google pixel 6A and 7
Google’s latest Pixel phones are generating significant buzz among Android users. Complete with a revamped design, hardware upgrades, and a user-friendly interface, the Pixel series is one of the popular picks for the upcoming shopping season sale offers.  Priced at just under $349 with ongoing offers on the official website, the Google Pixel 6A continues to be a crowd favorite. Unveiled during Google’s I/O event, the Pixel 6A started rolling out on July 28. Furthermore, Google’s latest launch on October 13, the Google Pixel 7 series, starts at just under $599 and features an upgraded display, processor, refresh rate, and camera.

Apple iPhone 14
With pre-orders already exceeding expectations on Apple’s latest upgrade, the iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Pro, and iPhone 14 Max are up for grabs.  Launched on September 16 this year, both the 14 Pro and the 14 Pro Max come with a maximum storage of 1TB alongside an A16 bionic chip. The iPhone 14 Pro is priced at $999, and the 14 Pro Max is available for $1099.  Enjoy exclusive trade-in deals and flat-rate pricing on all available variants this holiday season.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4
Launched on August 26, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4 brings you an innovative foldable phone and touchscreen experience. The phone features the fastest processor used by Samsung yet and is compatible with the innovative S Pen. Furthermore, it has a dual horizontal immersive display that rivals many smartphones for just $799 with eligible trade-in offers.

Apple iPhone SE (3rd generation)
If you are looking for a more compact version of the iPhone, then the SE series 3rd generation, launched on March 18 this year, is one of the best options. At starting price of $429, you can avail of perks like 256GB storage, a 4.7-inch display, and 5G cellular connectivity with the SE series.

T-Mobile, AT&T, Verizon, US Cellular, and Sprint have partnered with all major brands to introduce talk, text, and internet bundles with 5G phone plans. You can also checkout trade-in offers with cell phone plans included as part of the deal across all your favorite brands.
Boost Mobile also offers some of the best prepaid cellphone plans with talk, text, and data bundles. Offers are applicable on popular Samsung Galaxy S22 5G devices, iPhones, and Motorola devices. You can also check out pay as you go prepaid cell phone plans that have promotional offers. Some of these offers can be availed on the  5g iPhone SE. You can discover Visible Wireless cell phones for sale on popular devices across brands like Samsung, Motorola, Apple, and more on the official website.

Unfortunately, smartphones are exposed to cyber-attacks when you use them on public networks. Experts suggest installing apps that ensure cybersecurity in mobiles to prevent unauthorized use and access. Larger corporations and business enterprises can benefit from extra layers of security using CrowdStrike’s platform. The single endpoint platform protects online systems from breaches, ransomware, and cyberattacks.