Survey: Too many new smartphone models released each year

The survey conducted in six countries, commissioned by the environmental group Greenpeace, showed that more than half of those who responded would prefer to change their phones less frequently.

The top cellphone companies, Samsung and Apple, launch new flagship phone models at least once every year, showing off the latest display and mobile processor technologies.

[...] most users actually want their phones to be more easily dismantled, repaired and recycled.

"If they give a discount to consumers who return their companies' phones, they can increase consumer loyalty and help the environment as well," Kwon said.