How to Avoid Dead Tech Before You Buy It – The Lab

Nothing feels worse than bringing home a new electronic device or gadget only to discover it’s already outdated, unsupported, or on life support. Dead tech clutters your home, wastes your money, and leaves you frustrated when it stops working weeks after you set it up.

At The Lab, we help you stay ahead of the curve and make smarter tech decisions that last. With a few simple checks, you can avoid buying devices that are already at the end of their life cycle.

Step 1: Check Support Status

Before you buy any tech, check its support timeline. Head to a database that tracks support schedules for thousands of products across multiple industries. If the device you’re holding is listed as unsupported or nearing the end of its life, walk away.

If you want to go even faster, use AI. Snap a quick photo of the device and ask your preferred AI chatbot what model it is, when it launched, and whether it’s still supported.

This extra step protects you from purchasing abandoned tech with no updates, no security patches, and no future.

Step 2: Look At The Generation Number

Brands release new versions of devices for a reason. If the current version is Gen 5 and you’re holding a Gen 1 or Gen 2 model, support is probably already dead or ending soon.

Older generations lose access to new features, run slower, and become incompatible with updated apps and ecosystems.

As a general rule, anything three or more generations behind is too far gone to be a smart buy.

Step 3: Inspect The Companion App

Most smart home devices rely on an app to function. Before buying, open your app store and search for the companion app linked to the device. Tap on the version history and check when the last update was released.

If the app was updated within the past six months, that’s a good sign. If the last update was in early 2023 or earlier, the device is living in the past.

Stale apps signal poor developer support and often break when phone operating systems update. An inactive app is one of the clearest warnings that the hardware won’t last long.

Step 4: Follow the 70% Rule

Deep discounts are tempting, but smart home gadgets discounted by more than 70% are rarely a real bargain. When a product hits that level of markdown, it usually means the manufacturer is clearing out end-of-life inventory.

These devices often lose support fast, stop receiving updates, or shut down when the company turns off its servers. Saving a few bucks feels great. Bringing home a device that quits as soon as you set it up does not.

Smart Tech Buying Starts With Awareness

Dead tech isn’t always obvious. Companies rarely advertise that a product is on its last upgrade cycle or that support is ending next quarter. That’s why a few simple checks make all the difference.

When you evaluate the support status, generation, app activity, and pricing patterns, you protect your investment and ensure your home stays connected, secure, and functional.

Stay Ahead of Dead Tech With Help From The Lab

If you’re unsure about a device or want expert insight before you buy, The Lab is here to help. We test, analyze, and break down the latest smart home technology so you can make confident decisions.

Whether you’re outfitting a new home, upgrading outdated devices, or fixing a frustrating setup, we can guide you toward tech that lasts.

Ready to make smarter tech choices? Contact The Lab today and get unbiased, expert recommendations you can trust.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is dead tech?
Dead tech refers to devices that no longer receive updates, support, or security patches. These products lose compatibility and often stop functioning.

Why does support status matter?
Without updates, devices become vulnerable to security issues and may stop working with modern apps and operating systems.

How do I know if a gadget is too old?
Check its generation number and compare it to the current model. Large generation gaps usually signal that the device’s end of life is approaching.