13 Things That May Soon Disappear Forever (The Pandemic Edition)

Emerging technologies (and now the COVID-19 pandemic) are putting an end to these familiar items and practices.

(Image credit: Evan Amos via Wikipedia)

Fifteen years ago, thousands of Blockbuster Video stores occupied buildings like this all over the country, renting DVDs and selling popcorn. Today, there’s only one (it’s in Bend, Ore). The company’s shares once traded for nearly $30. Now the parent firm is gone, scooped up (and then erased) by the DISH Network in a bankruptcy auction.

Obsolescence isn’t always so complete, but emerging technologies and changing practices spell the end for many familiar items, practices and even jobs. COVID-19 is having abrupt effects, too, the consequences of which are still unfolding.

Here are 13 items that will soon fade to black.