If Your Device Is Being Discontinued, Do You Know What to Do?

As technology moves forward, so do the devices we rely on day in and day out. If you’ve found out that some of your essential devices are being discontinued, it’s completely understandable to feel a bit uncertain about what comes next. Will your devices stop working? Do you need to upgrade immediately?

In this post, I will walk you through why manufacturers discontinue products, what happens when your device is no longer supported, and whether or not you need to replace it. I will also share a list of Zebra and Honeywell devices that are being discontinued and their recommended replacements. This will give you a clearer idea of what your options are moving forward.

Why Do Manufacturers Discontinue Hardware?

There are several reasons why manufacturers phase out certain devices, and understanding them can help you make a more informed decision:

• Advancements in technology – Every year, newer models come with faster processors, better battery life, and improved security features. Technology doesn’t stand still, and older models can’t keep up with the demands of modern business.
• Changes in industry standards – As regulations and compliance requirements evolve, manufacturers need to ensure their devices meet the new standards. This can often mean updating to more current hardware to stay compliant.
• Supply chain limitations – Some components become harder or more expensive to source. When this happens, continuing to produce older devices becomes increasingly difficult.
• Focus on new product lines – Manufacturers have to prioritize the development of new technologies, so older devices eventually get phased out in favor of newer models that offer more advanced features.

Just because a product is discontinued doesn’t mean it will stop working. But if you’re relying on that device, it’s important to think about how this change could impact your business in the future.

What Happens When a Device is Discontinued?

If you’re currently using a discontinued device, here’s what you should expect:

• Support May Still Be Available – Most manufacturers provide extended support for a time after they stop making a product. This includes things like software updates, security patches, and customer service.
• Repair and Replacement Parts Could Become Scarce – While your device will still work, sourcing replacement parts and repairs might become more difficult and costly over time.  Manufacturers often repair devices for a period time after the end of production, but might limit repair options.
• Compatibility Issues May Arise – Newer software updates and applications might not work as smoothly on older devices. This can lead to performance problems, slowing down your operations or even causing tech headaches that could impact your team’s productivity.
• Security Risks Increase Over Time – When a device is no longer updated with security patches, it becomes more vulnerable to cyber threats. Without the latest fixes, your device could expose your business to unnecessary risks.

These are things you’ll need to keep in mind as you evaluate whether to keep using your current devices or make the switch to something newer.

Should You Replace Your Discontinued Device?

Now, you don’t necessarily have to replace your discontinued device right away, but there are definitely good reasons to start considering an upgrade:

1. Performance Improvements – Newer usually devices offer faster processors, extended battery life, and enhanced connectivity options.
2. Better Security – Security is critical for your business. Newer hardware is built to support the latest security protocols, helping you keep your data safe and secure.
3. Lower Long-Term Costs – Downtime from repairs and maintenance for older devices can become costly, making an upgrade more cost-effective in the long run.
4. Future-Proofing Your Operations – Technology is moving fast, and you want to stay ahead. By upgrading now, you’re ensuring your business has the tools to keep up with future changes, both in technology and industry standards.

If you’ve been using older devices for a while, replacing them might feel like a hassle. But when you look at the long-term benefits, it could be exactly what you need to keep things running smoothly.

When to Make the Switch?

To make things a little easier, I’ve included a chart below listing some of the Zebra and Honeywell devices that are being discontinued, along with their recommended replacements, and other important information you will find beneficial to know.  This chart will give you a better idea of what’s affected and help you decide if it’s time to make the move to something new.