Are Any Companies Making New Phones with Removable Batteries and SD Card Slots?

In the era of smartphones, the options for consumers like myself have expanded significantly. However, there is a noticeable trend of companies phasing out certain features that I find invaluable. I am constantly on the lookout for a phone that maintains traditional advantages such as a removable battery and expandable storage through an SD card slot. Unfortunately, for some time now, these features have become rarer. However, do any companies still make new phones with these features?

Why Removable Batteries Matter

Firstly, the removable battery is a feature that has disappeared in many modern smartphones. I understand the reasoning behind it; manufacturers can reduce the cost of repairs and improve water resistance. However, as a consumer who has experienced the difficulties of finding replacement batteries, I find this feature important. A removable battery means I can swap out a dead battery without having to go through the hassle of a complete device repair. Moreover, it is beneficial in case of a battery recall or issues with specific batch quality. While a close deal breaker for me, it is still something I consider highly valuable.

SD Card Slot: Crucial for Expandable Storage

For me, the presence or absence of an SD card slot is an even more critical factor in purchasing a smartphone. The expandable storage capability ensures that I can scale up my phone's storage without having to rely on cloud services, which often come with limitations or additional costs. Buying a phone with limited storage and having to pay or subscribe to expand storage options is a significant downside. Inexpensive plans can become expensive over time, and I prefer solutions that allow for flexible storage management. To me, this feature is non-negotiable, making it a deal-breaker for any phone that does not offer it.

My Current Phone and Experience

Currently, I use a Samsung J7, a phone that has both a removable battery and an SD card slot. I made this choice carefully, opting for this model over more expensive alternatives that lacked these features. At the time of purchasing, the inclusion of a removable battery and an SD card slot made the Samsung J7 an attractive option despite the price difference. Over the past years, this phone has served me well, and while it has its imperfections, it is still a capable device.

Current Market Trends and Alternatives

Unfortunately, the smartphone market is moving away from these features. In recent years, most manufacturers have opted for less repairable designs and integrated storage solutions. However, there are still some companies that prioritize these traditional features. For example, certain newer Xiaomi models offered in specific markets may still come with both a removable battery and an SD card slot. Other brands such as Motorola also still offer similar features in select models.

These companies understand that despite the increasing trend towards more repairable and extendable design options, some users still value traditional features like a removable battery and expandable storage. Motorola, for instance, has recently introduced the Moto G Power, which, in addition to a removable battery, also comes with a storage allowance for an external SD card, holding on to this cherished feature.

Conclusion

So, while it is becoming increasingly rare to find new phones with removable batteries and SD card slots, there are still select models available in the market. As a consumer who values these features, it is essential to stay informed and check the specifications of new releases. Whether it's one of the aforementioned brands or other manufacturers that may offer similar options, the search for a phone with these features is not without hope.
If you are in the same boat, it's worth looking into the latest model releases from these companies and considering the upgrade based on your specific needs and preferences. Technology always evolves, and there is always a chance for traditional features to make a comeback in new and innovative ways.