'Upgradia!'

I thought I was above this culture I had noticed to constantly need to upgrade every element of my life for faster, better and snazzier electronic appliances.
However, just yesterday I crumbled under the glittering and glistening pressure of the absolutely beautiful iPhone 5S, I know I'm a bit late on the uptake, however I gave in!

As it is the first of the month, I have done my usual trendwatching.com search to see what this month's trend briefing has to offer.

This month is all about UPGRADIA, which I thought was a very topical subject seeing as just a few days previous I had given into our overbearing 'upgrade' culture and indulged myself in the latest (and most beautiful) iPhone.

The trendwatching.com briefing sets out a very thorough the following definition:

UPGRADIA: Driven by consumers' thirst for quicker, more seamless access to the new (in ways that are cheaper, more sustainable and more participatory) and facilitated by emerging technologies, the constant stream of upgrades and iterations typical of the digital ecosystem is coming to the world of physical objects.

So, what is driving this trend?

Well, according the researchers at trendwatching.com there are three central driving forces that are to play in the concept of 'Upgradia':

1. Infinate Newism 
As a people we are constantly searching for newer and better things. Our digitally saturated lives make it almost impossible to avoid the pace and rate of change all aspects of our lives are taking. Products are evolving at an incredible rate, you only have to look at Apple to see this perfectly illustrated, with a newer, better, sleeker version of each of their products every quarter or so!

2. More for Less
As humans we have an ingrained desire and demand get get more things for less money. The concept of Upgradia results in this desire being fulfilled, with us demanding more for our money and an ever growing pace.

3. Hacker Chic 
There is an element of Upgradia that reflects our desire to become closer and more hand-on with the products and technologies we consume. The recent wide spread phenomenon of 3D printing is testament to this specific element. In providing consumers with the ability to upgrade as and when it suits them, is the ultimate Upgradia manifestation.

So, what is next for the Upgradia culture we find ourselves in? Is there a limit to Upgradia? Or are we in a constantly demanding and exponentially expanding state of Upgradia?

@Gemma_Clarkson

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