Why do we always buy new phones?

A reader says technology companies are psychologically manipulating consumers. Other topics: terrorism, labourers, Abu Dhabi Corniche

A reader wonders why we go crazy each time a new mobile phone is launched in the market. Monica Davey / EPA

The world seems to have gone crazy over the launch of iPhone 6 (iPhone 6 and Apple Watch launch expected to create massive demand in the UAE, September 10). Technology companies are ripping off consumers with bare minimum innovation, or even no innovation at all.

Companies like Apple and Samsung come up with new models every few months, making our perfectly functioning devices look useless and out of date. But we are also willing to fall into their traps. Why should I buy an iPhone 6 for Dh3,000 when I am perfectly happy with my current device? That’s because I will look out of fashion with it after the new version is out. These devices are more about fashion statement than about utility. Many people would deny that because they would need a reason to justify the reason to spend so much money on new handsets every now and then.

These companies have taken consumerism to a new level through psychological manipulations. They don’t give us time to breathe and think. Keep buying is their mantra and we seem to be enchanted by it. The very thought that these companies are guiding our lives is so frustrating.

Iris Smith, Abu Dhabi

Defeating ISIL will need joint effort

The defeat of terrorist organisations such as ISIL is inevitable, but it will take major efforts by all regional and neighbouring countries (Arabs rally behind US efforts for coalition, September 10).

Yet, equal efforts are needed from the local population in Syria and Iraq. And please just call them “daish” as they are known locally.

I request everybody not to call them “Islamic State” because they are tarnishing the name of Islam. These deluded, vicious thugs also should be recognised as such so that they do not get free publicity.

In this context, I would like to mention the article US finalising strategy to fight ISIL (September 9) that accompanies the picture of a Kurdish Peshmerga fighter. These veteran fighters have recently come to prominence. They are a small army and cannot do the job of the Iraqi army to liberate the areas occupied by daish. Nor should they be drawn into fighting daish outside Kurdistan.

The US and Nato should give due consideration to the Kurds, who created havens of peace, prosperity and tolerance in the short time that they have been governing themselves.

Let us not also forget the Kurds of Syria, who have been defending their communities unassisted from daish and established local administrations to protect their people from the destruction that has befallen Syria. The Kurds in Turkey have also shown a willingness to live peacefully, which should be encouraged.

Shamal Karim, Dubai

Corniche clock needs attention

It used to be a beautiful feature of Abu Dhabi with tourist coaches stopping to taking pictures and it marked part of the Corniche. Then came the construction of the towers containing the Sofitel and the construction of the tunnel, both of which are great feats of architecture.

However, the floral clock is now nothing more that a sand pit in which rats hide. The pavements have been dug up and never replaced and in general the area has fallen into complete disarray. Will the clock and pavements ever be restored to their former glory?

Tim Howson, Abu Dhabi

Save some funds to help labourers

I am writing in reference to the article Onam harvest festival remittances into Kerala rise from the UAE (September 6).

During the month of Ramadan, people living in labour camps were supplied with food and drinks. It was a great relief for these deserving workers. But their difficulties will continue for the rest of the year.

Now Onam celebrations have begun. These celebrations will continue until Christmas and New Year. Lavish food is part of these celebrations. People spend a lot of money during this time. One essential component of this occasion is Onam Sadya, a 26-dish feast served on banana leaves.

The organisers and participants of these feasts and celebrations are usually well off. If each of these organisations decides to reduce the cost of the Onam Sadya and other festivals, such as Christmas and New Year, and use that money to supply food and drinks to the labourers through out the year, it would be great.

There are a few organisations that have already been doing that. I request others to follow suit.

KV Shamsudheen, Dubai