obsolescence.mdwn (1734B)
1 **Obsolescence** takes place when something is no longer maintained or 2 required, even if it could still be usable. **Planned obsolescence** takes 3 place when obsolescence is actively designed and initiated by the 4 manufacturer/maintainer. 5 6 The concept of obsolescence is generally add odds with 7 [[technological diversity]] and often also wasteful especially in the 8 case of planned obsolescence. 9 10 ## Types of planned obsolescence 11 12 * Obsolescence of desirability: When designers change the styling of products so customers will purchase products more frequently due to the decrease in the perceived desirability of unfashionable items. 13 * Obsolescence of function: When an item is produced to break down or otherwise become non-functional in an abnormally short period of time. 14 * Obsolescence of compatibility: When a product becomes obsolete by altering the system in which it is used in such a way as to make its continued use difficult. Common examples of planned systemic obsolescence include not accommodating forward compatibility in software. 15 * Pseudo-obsolescence of desirability: When planned obsolescence appears to introduce innovative changes into a product, but in reality does not, often forcibly outfashioning an otherwise-useful product. 16 17 ## Examples 18 19 * Non-user-replaceable batteries: Some products, such as mobile phones, laptops, and electric toothbrushes, contain batteries that are not replaceable by the end-user after they have worn down, therefore leaving an aging battery trapped inside the device. 20 * Phoebus cartel: The cartel conveniently lowered operational costs and worked to standardize the life expectancy of light bulbs at 1,000 hours, down from 2,500 hours, and raised prices without fear of competition.