Technology moves at lightning speed, and not everything keeps up. What once felt cutting-edge can quickly become outdated, clunky, or completely irrelevant. As companies race to streamline features, integrate AI, and ditch outdated hardware, many devices are quietly slipping into retirement. That means the gadgets on store shelves this Christmas may not even be around next year. If you’re thinking about upgrading, here are nine obsolete tech items that are honestly already on their way out (if not obsolete completely).
1. DVD and Blu-ray Players
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Once a household staple, DVD and Blu-ray players are quickly becoming relics. Streaming services have made physical media nearly obsolete, and even collectors are moving toward digital libraries. Most new laptops and game consoles no longer include disc drives, pushing this technology further into the past. Manufacturers are also scaling back production, meaning fewer models and shorter support cycles. If you’re still using discs, it might be time to digitize your collection.
2. Standalone GPS Devices
Remember when we all had a Garmin or TomTom mounted on the dashboard? With smartphones offering real-time maps, traffic updates, and voice navigation, these devices have become redundant. App-based navigation like Google Maps and Waze far surpasses the outdated software in standalone units. Even car manufacturers are phasing them out in favor of integrated smartphone compatibility. By next Christmas, standalone GPS units may be hard to find outside of resale websites.
3. Digital Cameras (Under $300)
Affordable point-and-shoot digital cameras are on the brink of extinction. Today’s smartphones come equipped with high-quality lenses and computational photography that rival—or even beat—basic digital cameras. Unless you’re a professional or hobbyist, there’s little reason to carry around a separate camera. Sales for entry-level models have plummeted in recent years, and major brands are focusing more on high-end gear. Don’t be surprised if most low-cost digital cameras disappear from shelves entirely next year.
4. USB Flash Drives
Flash drives were once the go-to solution for portable file storage—but cloud services have taken over. Google Drive, Dropbox, and iCloud offer fast, seamless file sharing and backup without needing to carry a physical device. Plus, many laptops are reducing or removing USB-A ports altogether, making compatibility an issue. While they may still serve a purpose in certain industries, general consumers are quickly moving on. Expect them to vanish from your holiday tech list soon.
5. Landline Phones and Home Phone Systems
It’s not just younger generations ditching landlines—many households across all age groups are cutting the cord. VoIP services, smartphones, and unlimited cell plans have rendered home phone systems nearly obsolete. Even cable companies that used to bundle landlines are now shifting to internet-only packages. Retailers are scaling back phone system inventory, and support for these products is shrinking. If you’re still using a landline, this might be the last year it’s worth maintaining.
6. Old-School Alarm Clocks
Basic alarm clocks have lost the spotlight to smart assistants, fitness trackers, and smartphones. Most people now wake up to customized routines powered by Alexa or Google Assistant. Even sunrise simulation and sleep cycle features are built into smartwatches and phones. As a result, the old digital alarm clock is becoming a dust-collector in the clearance aisle. If you’re still giving these as gifts, it may be time to rethink.
7. VR Headsets Without Mixed Reality
Basic virtual reality headsets that only offer isolated VR experiences are quickly being replaced by mixed reality devices. Apple’s Vision Pro and Meta’s Quest 3 are blending VR with augmented reality for a more immersive, flexible experience. Headsets that don’t include this feature will feel outdated as app developers and gamers focus on hybrid environments. Expect older VR models to be phased out or heavily discounted by next holiday season.
8. Battery-Powered TV Remotes
TV remotes that rely on AA or AAA batteries are gradually disappearing in favor of rechargeable models. Smart TVs now come with remotes that charge via USB-C or solar power, making disposable batteries feel wasteful and unnecessary. As sustainability becomes a selling point, brands like Samsung and Roku are leading this shift. If your next remote still needs batteries, it’s likely outdated tech. Expect rechargeable models to be the new standard by next Christmas.
9. Inkjet Printers for Home Use
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Inkjet printers are notorious for high ink costs, clogs, and constant maintenance. With more people storing and sharing documents digitally, the need for at-home printing has declined. Companies are pivoting to eco-tank and laser models, and some are even exiting the consumer printer market altogether. If you’re still using a traditional inkjet, prepare for rising cartridge costs and fewer replacements. For most households, printing at home is becoming unnecessary—and inefficient.
Embracing the Future Without Wasting Money
Technology is always evolving, but that doesn’t mean we have to blindly follow every new trend. These obsolete tech items may still work, but they’re quickly being left behind by better, smarter, and more sustainable alternatives. Before you buy your next gadget—or add it to a holiday wish list—consider whether it’s already on its way out. Your wallet (and your storage drawer) will thank you for it.
Which tech item do you think will be gone by next Christmas? Let us know in the comments!
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