So? They're not investments. They're simply devices. But, let's go with this. After ~5 years, phones will sell for $990 (up from 5 years ago @ $890). 990 -

So? They're not investments. They're simply devices. But, let's go with this. After ~5 years, phones will sell for $990 (up from 5 years ago @ $890). 990 - 250 (splitting the difference) is what ... 740? That's a LOT more than $89 (or even 99 in 5 years). If my phone is still up to date and performant enough for my tasks, I would be stupid not to pay 99 vs 740.