In addition to the issue of supportability, an iPhone that isn't using the latest version of iOS may not receive critical software and security updates from Apple. On average, Apple supports each iPhone model for around six or more years.
Most iPhones last between 4 and 7 years, however this is not guaranteed. If your iPhone is more than a few years old, it's likely starting to become outdated and clunky, and it might be time to think about upgrading to a newer model for a better user experience.
How Long Does an iPhone Last? If you look after your iPhone, you can expect it to last for quite a while. As a rule of thumb, you can expect your phone to last anywhere between four and seven years. iPhone models almost always receive iOS updates long after their launch date.
We'd expect an iPhone 11 to last about 2 to 3 years, so until about 2025. This is fairly standard for the lifespan of Apple phones.
Overall, the iPhone 11 is a solid device that offers an outstanding balance of design, performance, and features. It still holds well in 2023 and is an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable, high-performance device at a more affordable price than the newer models.
Despite being well over three years old, so much about the iPhone 11 holds up remarkably well in 2023. The biggest reason for this is its processor. Powering the iPhone 11 is Apple's A13 Bionic chip.
However when it comes to iPhones, you can expect between three to five years (maybe more) with proper care.
The iPhone 14 Pro Max has the longest battery life of any iPhone, according to a recent study by PhoneArena. The study found that the iPhone 14 Pro Max can last up to 28 hours on a single charge, while the iPhone 14 Pro can last up to 22 hours and the iPhone 14 can last up to 19 hours.
Another major advantage that iPhones have over Samsung phones is the longevity of the devices. Although Samsung now offers four years of major Android updates for its flagships and mid-range phones, iPhones can easily last for five to six years. However, there's one important caveat to this.
The 2023 iPhone 15 models are expected to feature USB-C instead of Lightning, faster modem chips, upgraded camera technology, and more.
If you're using an iPhone 11, we recommend upgrading to an iPhone 14 (or even an iPhone 13). In the last three or so years, Apple has made enough changes to features including battery life, performance, screen quality, cameras and durability to merit buying a new iPhone.
Some people keep their iPhones for five years or more before they squeeze out that last drop of life, and a lot depends on how many trips to the Genius Bar you're willing to make and how much you want to spend on new batteries, screens, and other physical parts.
The short answer is yes, an iPhone can last 7 years. Depending on how well you take care of your device, an iPhone can last anywhere from 3-7 years before needing to be replaced. However, it is important to note that Apple's software updates are only available for devices that are less than 5 years old.
You can expect somewhere between five and seven years of major iOS updates, plus potential security patches beyond that. Your battery will decrease in performance over time, but as long as you have enough storage and keep your device from physical damage, it should last you a good amount of time.
iPhone batteries use lithium-ion technology. Compared with older generations of battery technology, lithium-ion batteries charge faster, last longer, and have a higher power density for more battery life in a lighter package.
The iPhone 6S was introduced in 2015, making it obsolete between 2020 and 2023. The iPhone 7 was introduced in 2016, making it obsolete between 2021 and 2023.
When it comes to the lifespan of a phone, Apple has always been the clear winner. And by lifespan, I'm talking about software and security updates.
The iPhone 14 launched in 2022 and runs iOS 16 out of the box. So if it receives six years of updates, that would mean you'll be good to go until 2028 -- or iOS 22.
Apple's iPhone and Samsungs's Galaxy have different strengths and weaknesses, so which one is better depends on your needs. Samsung phones tend to have better cameras, battery life, and display quality, even on budget models. However, iPhones do offer better software support and data security.
iPhone 12 vs iPhone 11 verdict
The iPhone 11 is an excellent phone. But, battery life aside, the iPhone 12 is a better phone in every way. It has a more powerful processor, a more striking screen, its design is more modern and the overall feel of the device is simply more impressive than its older sibling.
iOS usually supports phones up to 5 years. That's a very long time so there shouldn't be any problem in picking an older phone.
You can still get top quality and save more money by buying a used smartphone. Many stores sell comprehensively refurbished secondhand iPhone 11 and 13 phones at less than the original price. A used iPhone 11 and iPhone 13 used or refurbished, are almost brand-new devices.