2025 Consumer Device Upgrades:  Retailer Insights

As we step into 2025, a noticeable trend is on the horizon: the wave of personal device upgrades. The devices that served us during the pandemic—a period marked by rapid digital adaptation—are now showing their age. Whether it’s personal computers, monitors, phones, or other gadgets, many of the tools we relied upon to navigate remote work, virtual learning, and staying connected have reached the end of their optimal lifecycle.

In this article, we’ll explore the key trends shaping consumer demand for personal device upgrades in 2025 and highlight how retailers can empower shoppers to upgrade to make the purchases they desire.

A Pandemic Boom Turning into an Upgrade Opportunity

Between 2020 and 2021, consumer demand for personal devices skyrocketed. With work-from-home setups, virtual meetings, and online schooling becoming the norm, millions invested in technology to stay connected and productive during the pandemic. Fast forward to 2025, and many of those devices are now outdated, less efficient, and struggling to keep pace with today’s software and connectivity demands.

Most device manufacturers often design hardware with a lifespan of three to five years, particularly for phones and laptops. As the devices purchased during the pandemic approach or exceed that threshold, consumers are faced with a choice: repair their aging devices, continue to tolerate diminishing performance, or upgrade to newer, faster, and more capable models.

Why 2025 Could Spark Device Upgrades

1. Evolving Tech Standards

Rapid advancements in technology are leaving older devices behind. The rollout of 5G, improved Wi-Fi 6E standards, and more power-efficient processors, brings significant gains in speed, reliability, and performance.  Upgrading to these newer models isn’t just about keeping up—it’s about unlocking smoother, faster, and more reliable technology.

2. Increasing Work and Play Demands

In the post-pandemic era, the boundary between work and personal devices has continued to blur. Hybrid work has become the norm, and the average consumer now demands optimal performance from their laptops, tablets, and smartphones to meet the dual needs of professional productivity and personal entertainment.

3. Affordability Will Shape Consumer Choices

With rising costs in many sectors, affordability will be a key driver of purchase decisions in 2025. Retailers that offer competitive prices and flexible payment options will have a distinct advantage. Retailers that provide point-of-sale (POS) financing solutions, such as 0% or deferred interest programs and that address the full credit spectrum of prime, near-prime, no-credit-required, buy-now-pay-later (BNPL) and B2B programs, are uniquely positioned for significant wins. These solutions allow consumers to spread the cost of new devices over manageable payments, making upgrades more accessible without the burden of upfront expenses.

4. Sustainability and Trade-In Incentives

Eco-conscious consumers are increasingly looking to trade in old devices in return for credit toward new purchases.  Manufacturers and retailers offering robust trade-in programs, ensuring old gadgets are recycled responsibly while making upgrades more affordable are gaining favor with sustainability-minded consumers .

5. Rising Consumer Expectations

The rise of AI, augmented reality, and other cutting-edge innovations are becoming more mainstream, but they require hardware capable of running them effectively. Devices bought in 2020 often lack the processing power or graphics capabilities to fully leverage these advancements, creating a clear upgrade imperative.

6. The Buzz Around New Product Launches

The tech world is buzzing with rumors of exciting product launches in 2025. From new foldable laptop designs and next-generation monitors to AI-integrated smartphones, this year is poised to showcase innovations that make upgrading irresistible, even for those whose devices are relatively new. .

Key Devices on the Upgrade List

• Laptops and Desktops: Aging processors, reduced battery life, and limited support for modern software are driving the need for replacements. Upgrades like faster SSDs, advanced GPUs, and improved battery performance are in high demand.

• Monitors: High refresh rates, 4K resolution, and ultrawide displays are becoming the standard for work and gaming, making older monitors feel inadequate.

• Smartphones: Foldable designs, improved camera technology, and AI-powered features are making 2025 an exciting year for smartphone enthusiasts.

• Peripherals: Keyboards, mice, webcams, and docking stations have seen wear and tear over time, pushing consumers to refresh their setups for ergonomics and better functionality.

Retailers and Manufacturers: Positioned for Success

Retailers that adopt affordability-focused strategies, such as competitive pricing, trade-in programs, and point-of-sale financing solutions, are well-positioned to thrive in 2025. By partnering with an embedded lending platform like ChargeAfter, retailers gain access to all POS financing categories and programs—including consumer-focused and B2B solutions—through a single integration.

This streamlined approach enables retailers to offer a variety of financing options, such as  buy-now-pay-later plans, installment loans, revolving lines of credit, and leasing options. These solutions make it easier for customers and B2B purchasers alike to upgrade their devices without the burden of significant upfront costs, making high-ticket purchases more accessible . These solutions not only enhance the customer experience by providing flexible payment terms but also capture consumers who might otherwise delay upgrading due to upfront costs.

By leveraging ChargeAfter’s comprehensive platform, retailers can boost sales, improve customer satisfaction, and foster long-term loyalty, all while meeting the diverse needs of modern shoppers.

Conclusion

2025 is shaping up to be a pivotal year for rethinking the technology we use every day. Whether driven by necessity, innovation, or affordability, this year could spark a significant upgrade cycle. As consumers weigh their options, one thing is certain: the devices we choose today will define how we work, play, and connect in the years ahead.

For retailers and manufacturers, this presents a golden opportunity to align their offerings with consumer needs, by prioritizing affordability, accessibility, and cutting-edge innovation.

So, will 2025 be the year you decide to upgrade? It just might be the perfect time to swap out those pandemic-era devices and step into a new era of performance and connectivity.

About Kevin Lawrence
VP Global Lender Relations – Kevin has worked in the banking and finance industry for over a decade. He has worked closely with some of North America’s largest banks, financial institutions, and retailers. Kevin is an expert in embedded consumer financing and B2B financing. He has a deep understanding of current trends and where the industry is heading.