iPhones are durable for a long time. However, there are nuances about how long you should keep an older iPhone.
Apple iPhones are always well-liked; however, in recent times, you have likely observed one on the wrists of almost everyone you know. Apple faithfully swears by the iPhone and has never considered buying an expensive Android flagship. Beyond the loyal and regular users, many have enjoyed the iPhone’s long-lasting quality and continued utilizing it because it meets their requirements. If you’ve considered purchasing an iPhone and you’re wondering whether you’ll have suitable time to stay in the field, let us find out how long an iPhone can last.
How long will iPhones last?
In the absence of the Fairphone line and the chance of an incident involving a phone falling, iPhones are the longest-lasting smartphones available. iPhones can outlast accurate Android phones due to factors like superior design, superior build quality, extensive software support for new features and security upgrades, extended service from app developers, easy access to components for repairs, many cases to choose from, accessories, and much more. The longevity and consistency benefit give iPhones an edge on the iOS comparison with Android argument.
Apple updates the iPhone yearly with fresh models, versions, and colors. Your friends might rush to buy the most current iPhone after every announcement, creating the impression that iPhone owners are buying new iPhones all the time.
However, the reality is not as the truth. Apple doesn’t change sufficient elements of its handset each year. Most users are hesitant to switch from an excellent phone to the latest model just because it’s brand fresh (and because it’s costly).
The Most Important iPhone Lifespan Factor: Software Updates
In terms of technicality, as it continues to function, as long as your iPhone is on and functioning and functions, it’s in its lifetime. In reality, however, you can find several methods to know if your iPhone remains within its useable lifespan. The most significant of these is the time it receives iOS and security updates from Apple.
Each qualified iPhone is updated with software shortly after its release, regardless of whether it’s a major update, such as iOS 15, or a minor version to correct issues, such as iOS 15.0.1. These updates not only bring fresh functions to your iPhone but also fix security problems to warrant that your iPhone is safe.
Over time, Apple drops support for older iPhone models. Making an effort to warrant that an update works on older devices where just a handful of users are together is not worth the effort to any business. Additionally, the less powerful devices of earlier iPhone models can’t keep up with the latest requirements for iOS versions.
Apple utilizes the “vintage” and “obsolete” labels to distinguish its earlier devices. An Apple device was deemed obsolete after the company stopped selling it more than seven years ago. Note that this isn’t the same as its original launch date.
As of now, Apple does not offer technical support for the phone or its hardware, and service providers cannot purchase parts for the device. At the time of this writing, iPhone 4S and older models are considered obsolete.
When your iPhone stops receiving security updates, it’s time to update. Although your phone isn’t likely to suffer attacks immediately following the time the device is no longer supported, it’s not a good idea to operate a device that isn’t supported for an extended period of time. If major security issues are discovered, Apple won’t fix them on your smartphone.
The Average iPhone Lifespan Through iOS Updates
You can glance at the historical patterns to figure out the length of time iPhones will last. iOS 15, released in September 2021, can be used with these iPhone models:
- iPhone 13 series
- iPhone 12 series
- iPhone 11 series
- iPhone XS, XS Max, and XR
- iPhone X
- iPhone 8 and 8 Plus
- iPhone 7 and 7 Plus
- iPhone 6S and 6S Plus
- iPhone SE, 1st and 2nd generation
Factors Affecting iPhone Lifespan
You know the length of the iPhone 7, 11, 12 XR, and 13. Let’s talk about the additional elements that impact the longevity of the Apple phone. Many habits can reduce the life of your phone, like ignoring the battery’s health or failing to update the firmware on your iPhone. Therefore, if you would like your iOS phone’s life to run longer, be sure to avoid damaging device practices. The elements that influence the longevity of the iPhone XR11,12,13, and 11 include:
Physical Damage:
It is crucial to care for your iPhone’s components because it affects your phone’s life span. If you accidentally throw your phone down or splash water over it, you could damage it. Damage to the device could stop users from using it for a long time and could also reduce the life span of your phone. You will be charged an amount of money if you want to have the damaged device repaired. Therefore, you must be cautious while using your Apple phone. Protecting your cell phone through together cases for phones and glass is possible.
Battery Health:
The battery life of the iPhone slowly declines. The frequency with which users recharge their iPhones and the types of cable they use for charging their devices will also affect the battery’s lifespan. If you notice that the battery is beginning to get old, then it is time to purchase the battery. A battery that is used correctly will benefit your device by keeping it running for longer.
Less Storage Space:
This is another reason that can affect the lifespan of your iPhone. When you have a lot of images, videos, or applications on your iPhone, you can run out of storage capacity. If this happens, users will have to purchase additional storage.
The Finest Time to Buy a New iPhone
The generally accurate moment to purchase an iPhone is right after the release of the brand-new series, at the end of fall or September. If price reductions occur with older models, this will follow the latest models’ release; if prices don’t decrease, you could be interested to see what new models are. Some models are priced similarly to older models or are free to purchase in exclusive carrier offers. It’s frustrating to buy a new iPhone in July or August and then discover two months later that it could be a better model with better features at a similar price or less!
The perfect opportunity to get a new iPhone is when you need one. Do not let seasonality stop you from investing your money in an important decision. When you’re contemplating such issues, look at what you must do before selling your existing iPhone. Enjoy making the switch!