Core Viewpoint - The discussion around whether 128GB smartphones should be phased out has gained traction, highlighting the increasing storage demands due to enhanced smartphone functionalities and user needs for high-resolution media and applications [1][2]. Group 1: Market Trends - The flagship models in the domestic market have largely eliminated the 128GB storage option, with brands like Xiaomi, OPPO, vivo, and OnePlus adopting a strategy that starts at 256GB for mid to high-end models, with some offering up to 1TB or 2TB options [6]. - In contrast, Apple's iPhone 16 series retains the 128GB option as a starting configuration, making it unique in the high-end smartphone market [7]. Group 2: User Perspectives - Some users argue that 256GB is the minimum requirement, stating that 128GB feels inadequate, especially with the growing storage needs for apps like WeChat and photo storage [3]. - Other users maintain that while storage may be tight, they can manage by deleting unnecessary files, thus avoiding extra expenses [5]. Group 3: Storage Demand Analysis - The decline of 128GB in flagship models is attributed to the explosive growth of application ecosystems, with social and gaming apps requiring exponentially more storage. Additionally, the hidden costs of user experience, such as time spent managing storage, further emphasize the need for larger storage capacities [8]. - Despite the trend, 128GB still holds value for specific user groups, such as older adults who primarily use their phones for calls and short videos, and those who use 128GB devices as secondary phones for basic communication [9].