I've upgraded phones only as the 2G-5G(UC) evolved and the legacy networks "shut down". All I've ever needed (or wanted) is a native browser on my phone... no apps ... none. My speed/bandwidth needs haven't changed in 15 years.
My phone is just like it shipped ...
lean & mean and just works ...
I do reset it every year or so .... whenever Sugarbritches tells me I'm an idiot for using such an old phone

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I lived the "bleeding" leading edge of data networking stuff for years .... I had arrows in my back to show for it too

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What I do works for me ... always has .... ymmv.