Disappointing Phones

a day ago

The author's OnePlus 5T will become unusable for calls in 2026 due to the 3G shutdown in New Zealand.
Key requirements for a new phone include: good cameras, customizable software, local availability for repairs, manageable size, and a headphone jack.
After research, the author found no locally available phones with headphone jacks, forcing them to compromise on that requirement.
Shortlisted phones include the Samsung S24/S25 and Xiaomi 15, both meeting some but not all requirements.
The Asus Zenfone 10 offers a headphone jack and compact size but lacks local availability and has outdated updates.
Apple's iPhone mini is considered but dismissed due to software limitations and ecosystem incompatibility.
The author expresses disappointment with current phone options, feeling they are compromises compared to their OnePlus 5T.

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