# The phone is dead. Long live . . . what exactly? - TechCrunch

2026-01-02 · news · Read time: ~ 4 min

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What's Next After Smartphones? Tech Industry Speculates

Headlines explore the future of communication as the smartphone era wanes, focusing on industry speculation and potential technological advancements.

What happened

A TechCrunch article discusses the potential decline of smartphones, with predictions that devices like the iPhone may no longer be in use within the next five to ten years.

Key facts

The article is published by TechCrunch.
A statement by Callaghan suggests a significant shift away from current smartphone technology.
The prediction includes a timeline of five to ten years for this change.
The article was published on December 31, 2025.

Background & context

Smartphones have been a central part of daily life for over a decade, revolutionizing communication, entertainment, and access to information. Since the launch of the first iPhone in 2007, these devices have become ubiquitous, with companies like Apple and Samsung leading the market. They have continually innovated, introducing features such as high-resolution cameras, biometric security, and advanced processors. However, technological advancements and shifts in consumer behavior often lead to changes in how we interact with technology. The rise of wearable technology, augmented reality (AR), and virtual reality (VR) suggests new directions for personal technology. These innovations hint at a future where devices are more integrated into our daily lives, potentially replacing the need for a handheld device. The concept of a "post-smartphone" world is not new. Industry experts have speculated about the next big leap in personal technology, considering possibilities like AR glasses or even brain-computer interfaces. These technologies promise to offer more seamless and immersive experiences, potentially transforming how we interact with digital content.

Why it matters (for US readers)

For US readers, the potential decline of smartphones could signal a major shift in how we communicate and interact with technology. The smartphone has been a cornerstone of modern life, influencing everything from social interactions to business operations. A move away from smartphones could impact industries ranging from telecommunications to app development, altering consumer habits and expectations. Understanding these changes can help individuals and businesses prepare for future technological landscapes. For consumers, adapting to new technologies may involve learning new interfaces or changing how they access information and services. For businesses, staying competitive may require investing in new technologies and rethinking product offerings. The economic implications are significant. The smartphone industry supports a vast ecosystem of manufacturers, developers, and service providers. A shift away from smartphones could disrupt this ecosystem, leading to new opportunities and challenges. Companies that can anticipate and adapt to these changes may find themselves at the forefront of the next technological wave.

Stakeholders & viewpoints

Tech Industry Experts: Some experts predict a shift away from traditional smartphones, suggesting new forms of technology may replace them. They see potential in emerging technologies like AR and VR, which could offer more immersive and integrated experiences.
Consumers: Users may need to adapt to new technologies and ways of interacting with digital content. This transition could involve learning new skills or adjusting to different modes of communication and information access.
Technology Companies: Firms like Apple and Samsung may need to innovate beyond current smartphone models to stay relevant. This could involve developing new product lines or investing in emerging technologies to capture the next wave of consumer interest.
Developers and Service Providers: The potential decline of smartphones could impact app developers and service providers who rely on the smartphone ecosystem. Adapting to new platforms and technologies will be crucial for maintaining relevance and reaching consumers.

Timeline & what to watch next

2025: TechCrunch publishes an article predicting the decline of smartphones.
Next 5-10 years: Watch for developments in new technology that could replace smartphones. This includes advancements in AR, VR, and wearable technology, as well as potential breakthroughs in brain-computer interfaces.
Industry Innovations: Monitor announcements from major tech companies regarding new product lines or technologies. Companies that successfully innovate may set the standard for the next generation of personal technology.
Consumer Adoption: Pay attention to consumer adoption rates of new technologies. Early adoption trends can provide insights into which technologies are likely to gain traction and replace smartphones.
Regulatory and Ethical Considerations: As new technologies emerge, regulatory and ethical considerations will become increasingly important. Issues such as privacy, data security, and the ethical use of technology will need to be addressed.