Managing maintenance costs is crucial to ensuring maximum performance and lifetime of cellphones, which are becoming an increasingly critical aspect of people’s lives.
Presently in Nigeria, estimates from different sources put the number of smartphone users in Nigeria at roughly between 25 million and 40 million.
This figure is expected to grow, as the number of smartphone users in Nigeria was forecast to continuously increase between 2024 and 2029 totaling 101.7 million users (+122.43 per cent).
Meanwhile, Onsitego’s internal data, showed that getting a smartphone repaired on an average can cost anywhere between 27 per cent and 41 per cent of the device’s cost.
To prevent spending such a huge amount, this report has provided cost-effective strategies and proactive tactics to assist in reducing phone maintenance costs.
The first step is to invest in protective accessories such as phone cases and screen protectors, which are an effective way to mitigate damage from accidental drops, scratches, and impacts. Quality accessories can significantly reduce the likelihood of screen or body damage, minimising the need for costly repairs or replacements.
According to LEADERSHIP Weekendchecks, it cost over N100,000 to change the screen of Samsung Note 10+, for instance. Meanwhile, with N2,000, one can buy a screen guide that will help protect the screen.
Onsitego report averred that, “Screen damage is the most common reason for smartphone repairs, and a screen panel is the second costliest component in a smartphone. Since screen damage is not covered under the standard manufacturer warranty terms, you wouldn’t want to damage your phone’s display accidentally.
“The best way to protect it is to cover it using a high-quality tempered glass screen protector. We advise against using plastic film-based screen protectors as they can save the display from scratches, but not against drops.”
Additionally, users ought to develop routine maintenance practices, as these can aid in preventing minor difficulties from growing into larger ones. This includes routinely cleaning the phone to get rid of debris, dust, and other particles that can build up in ports, speakers, and other parts. Prompt attention to system optimization and software upgrades can also improve security and performance while lowering the likelihood of expensive software-related problems.
It is essential to inform people about how environmental conditions affect the health of their phones. Internal components can become damaged by exposure to high or low temperatures, moisture, or humidity, which can result in malfunctions or early failure. In order to avoid expensive repairs or replacements, users should keep their phones out of the sun, water, and other harsh environments.
In order to maintain battery health and reduce maintenance expenses, adequate battery care is necessary. Onsitego report added that, “Whenever a phone is charged, the voltage step down function occurs, which results in heat generation. This is why smartphones get a little warm while they are being charged. When this heat generation happens, the phone should be able to dissipate heat as fast as possible, and if the phone is covered, heat is not dissipated fast enough, causing the phone to keep heating up.
“There have been several cases where a charging phone kept under a pillow caught fire due to excessive heat, causing fire damage to the mattress, bed, and even a user.
So, you should never cover a smartphone using a pillow, let alone sleep overnight with a charging phone under your pillow.”
Another tip is for phone users to always delete unused apps, clearing cache and temporary files, and organising data storage to free up valuable space which will in turn, improve system efficiency and reduce the risk of slowdowns or crashes.
Warranty and Insurance Options, especially, for those who are using phones worth N3 million and above are also crucial.
Informing users about warranty coverage and insurance options can provide additional financial protection against unexpected repair or replacement costs. Explaining the terms and conditions of manufacturer warranties, as well as offering guidance on reputable insurance providers and coverage plans, can help users make informed decisions and mitigate potential expenses.
Preventive measures, environmental awareness, and ethical device management are key components of a proactive strategy to minimising phone maintenance expenditures. Users can extend the life of their phones and optimise their value and utility over time by putting the measures recommended in this report into practice, which will reduce the need for expensive repairs or replacements.
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