Planned obsolescence is a strategy used by manufacturers where products are intentionally designed to have a limited lifespan or to become outdated quickly, encouraging consumers to purchase new versions or replacements. It can take several forms, including:
- Technical Obsolescence: When a product is designed with parts or technology that are expected to fail or wear out after a certain period.
- Style Obsolescence: Products are updated with new designs or aesthetics, making older models seem outdated, even if they are still functional.
- Software or Technological Obsolescence: Common in technology sectors where updates or new features make older software or hardware incompatible or obsolete.
- Perceived Obsolescence: Marketing influences consumers to believe their existing products are no longer fashionable or adequate, even when they still work.
This approach often leads to increased consumer spending and waste, and has environmental and ethical implications due to its encouragement of constant consumption. It’s especially prevalent in industries like electronics, fashion, and automobiles.
