Why do we upgrade?

StarSolitude · 29 Sep 2009 at 19:39

A program from the BBC explores modern society and our obsession with technology and getting the latest gadgets... It's probably relevant to most of us here!

http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b00n1hwj/Upgrade_Me/

So... why do we upgrade? Why is it SO important for us to get the latest iPods, upgrade to faster computer components and get the best TV's etc?

Is it an actual NEED to have a faster computer? I doubt that, because I see a lot of people buying high-end PC's when all they do is watch movies or burn CD's.

Is it just the inner need for MORE inside us all, that makes sure we're never satisfied with what we have?

LeJosh · 29 Sep 2009 at 19:43

Not enough time, too much to do!!!

/runs wildly

Viper² · 29 Sep 2009 at 19:45

Something to play about with.

Repta · 29 Sep 2009 at 19:46

e-peen....

Oxide™ · 29 Sep 2009 at 19:50

geezuz where have you been? are you one of those types that sing cum bah yah flaunting your hairy pits?

No offense

Sinque · 29 Sep 2009 at 19:52

Every human being on the planet has one major flaw - greed.

Tefal · 29 Sep 2009 at 19:52

StarSolitude said:
Is it an actual NEED to have a faster computer? I doubt that, because I see a lot of people buying high-end PC's when all they do is watch movies or burn CD's.

Games baby.

Although the op is the guy who was thinking of buying either a Nvidia 295GTX ATI HD4890 for his high end computer he's hardly one to talk

MagicBoy · 29 Sep 2009 at 19:52

Because we're impatient. New = faster, therefore = better.

oneale90 · 29 Sep 2009 at 19:55

I didn't know therefore = better !

Tefal · 29 Sep 2009 at 19:56

oneale90 said:
I didn't know therefore = better !

Depends if you're a woman

StarSolitude · 29 Sep 2009 at 20:00

Tefal said:
Games baby.

Although the op is the guy who was thinking of buying either a Nvidia 295GTX ATI HD4890 for his high end computer he's hardly one to talk

I'm 20 and I have about £1300 saved, not much, and I am on the verge of blowing most of that on my first ever high end custom built PC. I know I should probably save it, but some overpowering urge in me is going to defy all logic and buy that new PC.

And because I'm aware of that never ending desire for more, its annoying! I feel like a slave to my own desires.

But then again, I don't feel any attachment to money anyway, so money saved in the bank is meaningless to me. I'm not interested in getting rich...!

meghatronic · 29 Sep 2009 at 20:07

I no longer upgrade., grew out of it when I was 21ish.

I get a new mobile phone on contract end as it makes financial sense (plus the old one will be nearly in pieces). I only replace things if they break now, e.g. graphics card.

RIZZEE · 29 Sep 2009 at 20:09

Viper² said:
Something to play about with.

pretty much this

durruti · 29 Sep 2009 at 20:19

Because people are morons and companys need profits so advertise small advancements as necessary purchases.

And i think this is exagerated, most upgrades are ones with noticable advantages, such as a bigger TV, better sound quality, more storage.

Dr.EM · 29 Sep 2009 at 20:25

Generally people enjoy doing it, shiny new things!

I haven't upgraded my PC much and my mobile phone is quite ancient now (k700i), it's joypad is now failing but I'm looking into replacing it myself rather than splurging on a new one!

yer_averagejoe · 29 Sep 2009 at 20:42

Has anyone else noticed the bbc iplayer volume control goes up to 11?

Greenlizard0 · 29 Sep 2009 at 20:45

I only upgrade when I see a purpose for the newer device. Whether that is e.g. larger capacity or faster speed, i.e. things that I know will benifet me.

Tummy · 29 Sep 2009 at 20:46

One of the deadly sins.

Greed.

People want more and more, they want things to work faster and to have the best.

Tummy · 29 Sep 2009 at 20:47

double post.

bakes0310 · 29 Sep 2009 at 20:49

Tummy said:
double post.

case in point