iPhone 12

iPhone 12

Yesterday, after completing the “super-duper corona” ritual at the Apple® Store in Ala Moana Center, the iPhone XR was “sold” and the new iPhone 12 was purchased. Black is the new color in commemoration of the demise of empire. A new case for $20 at Target® was also purchased.

The iPhone XR could have been deployed for a couple more years. The battery would have to replaced in a year, though. The resale value in two years would be close to nothing. Thus, the decision to divest the device now.

The new “smartphone” is still configured to be a “dumb” cellphone. All radios remain off when not in use. Notifications, Siri, 5G, and location services are permanently off. Only the Web browser is allowed cellular data access.

Lots of money exchanged hands yesterday, more than double the usual monthly expenses. There was some “buyer’s remorse,” of course. However, the reality of mortality makes clear that money is not going to be of much use after the “good years” elapse (except for medical care) or upon death. There is no denial of death here.