What You Need to Know

Tech experts aren't just early adopters—they're also early abandoners. They're quietly stepping away from certain gadgets that most people still use daily. Their reasons range from serious security flaws to poor value and privacy nightmares. Here's what they're ditching and why you might want to fol...

Wi-Fi Extenders

Wi-Fi extenders may seem like a good fix for dead zones, but they often reduce your bandwidth and cause connection issues as you move around. Networking experts recommend mesh systems instead.

These systems keep connections stable and maintain full speed. Entry-level mesh systems cost about $150-$200 for a two-pack. Unlike extenders, they create one network name and seamlessly switch devices as you move. The improvement in performance is clear and immediate.

Smart Speakers with Always-On Mics

Many security experts have removed Amazon Echo, Google Nest, and similar devices from their homes. These gadgets listen for wake words, making them always-on microphones.

Studies show contractors may review random recordings, including private conversations. If privacy is a concern, consider smart speakers without microphones or just use your phone when needed. This way, you retain privacy with minimal loss of convenience.

Unsupported Android Phones

Phones without security updates pose serious risks. Some Android phones get updates for only 2-3 years, whereas iPhones usually receive over 5 years of support. An unsupported phone can have unpatched vulnerabilities that hackers exploit.

Check your phone's update status in Settings. If it no longer receives security patches, consider replacing it, even if it still functions. The security risk isn't worth the savings.