Advantages & Disadvantages of Electronic Gadgets

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Electronic gadgets have revolutionized the way we work, play, shop and communicate. They are an ever-present part of modern life, but they don't come without a negative side. The disadvantages of electronic devices, including addiction, are receiving an increased amount of attention. Anyone who uses electronic devices should be aware of the influence of they have on society and our personal lives.

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Electronic Gadgets Definition

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A gadget as a small device or tool that is frequently novel or ingenious. Smartphones and tablets are the most obvious examples of electronic gadgets. In recent years, these devices have become increasingly general-purpose as they combine several functions, including making calls, streaming video and playing games. Other examples of electronic gadgets include e-book readers, smartwatches, digital fitness trackers, GPS devices and video game machines. Some people also include monitors, laptops and desktop computers when discussing the advantages and disadvantages of gadgets.

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Advantages of Electronic Gadgets

One of the biggest advantages of electronic gadgets is that they make our lives easier. Talk to anyone who was around before the days of mobile phones, and you'll hear how inconvenient it was to find a pay phone when you needed to make a call while away from home. Gadgets help us stay personally and professionally connected by providing access to email, text messages, phone services, video chat and social media. We use them to make new connections, both online and in the real world. Electronic devices have revolutionized the world of shopping, allowing online shoppers to buy millions of products with the tap of a finger or click of a mouse.

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Disadvantages of Electronic Gadgets

A small electronic gadget may seem harmless, but the manufacture and disposal of these devices have a significant impact on the global environment. Many devices contain hazardous materials such as lead, cadmium and mercury that can contaminate ground soil if not disposed of properly. The problem of disposal is compounded by the fact that consumers are urged to upgrade to new technology before their current devices wear out.

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Electronic devices can improve communication, but they are also blamed for social issues. While social media and other technology help many people strengthen relationships, others feel pressured to keep up a certain image on social media or are depressed after social media interactions. Children and teenagers are especially vulnerable to the social issues associated with smartphones and other gadgets that connect to the internet. There is also growing concern that overreliance on smartphones and other electronic gadgets leads to tech addiction.

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The ability to shop and conduct banking operations from a mobile device is convenient, but it brings an increased risk for identity theft and other serious crimes due to the breach of sensitive data by cybercriminals. Loss of privacy is another concern with electronic devices. Personal photo, videos and other private data are at greater risk of being exposed or lost when stored on an electronic device.

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