Holding onto the Past: A Look at Spain’s Obsession with Obsolete Electronic Devices

In 2024, a study on technology consumption in Spain uncovered that 29 percent of Spaniards keep five or more obsolete electronic devices at home. The most popular “relic” among them is the old mobile phone, with 67 percent admitting to keeping one even though they use a newer model. Other commonly stored devices include media players, computers and accessories, and video game consoles or virtual reality headsets.

The reasons for retaining these outdated devices vary among individuals. Some do so out of caution for potential future use, while others hold onto them due to nostalgia or simply forgetting about them. However, some people are open to the idea of getting rid of these devices in the future to gain economic benefits from selling them, free up space at home, or ensure they will never use them again.

Grover, a technology rental service company, conducted the study and shed light on the habits of Spaniards when it comes to keeping obsolete technology at home. It revealed that almost three-quarters of the population stores multiple outdated technological products, with smartphones being the most common among them. Despite their inclination to hold onto these devices, many people are considering parting ways with them for various reasons.

Overall, it appears that while some Spaniards value their old technology for sentimental reasons or as potential backup options in case of emergencies, others see little purpose in holding onto devices that have become obsolete and may even take up valuable space in their homes.