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. The iPhone 8 was introduced in 2017, making it obsolete between 2023 and 2024.
Apple is said to drop software support for three iPhones in 2023. The iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus and iPhone X may not get iOS 17 update.
Will the iPhone 7 still work in 2023? Even though the iPhone 7 is no longer supported by Apple's iOS updates, that doesn't mean you still can't use it in 2023. The iPhone 7 will still work on different carrier networks in the US and you'll still have access to apps on the Apple Store.
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.
With all the upgraded smartphone tech, you might prefer to buy a more recent iPhone model, but the iPhone 8 is still a perfectly good smartphone in 2023.
The iPhone 8 is able to stay under the water for up to half an hour. Anymore time in water could cause water damage, which would very quickly stop your phone from working.
Is iPhone XR still good in 2023? Yes. The iPhone XR will continue to be a very competitive alternative in 2023 as long as it is still available for a fair price. The iPhone XR maintains a contemporary look while providing a large screen and a long-lasting battery.
iPhone 12 vs iPhone 11 battery life and performance
While Apple says the battery life is identical, thanks to the prowess of its A14 chipset, in reality the iPhone 12 doesn't last as long. That's down to the fact it has more cutting edge tech, like 5G and OLED, meaning it drains power slightly faster.
Refurbished iPhone 11
You'll get iOS updates and new functions until 2024.
The iPhone XR was released in 2018, so it is likely to receive software updates and support from Apple until around 2023-2024. However, it is important to note that the exact date when support for the iPhone XR will end is ultimately up to Apple, and can depend on factors such as hardware limitations and user demand.
On June 6, 2022, Apple announced on its website that iPhone 7 and 7 Plus will not receive support for iOS 16.
iPhone battery durability
For most users, this represents approximately two years of use, which is why most people believe that the lifespan of a phone is two years. However when it comes to iPhones, you can expect between three to five years (maybe more) with proper care.
As of 2023 Apple supports the last two versions of its operating systems for bug and security updates: iOS 16 and iOS 15. All phones that could run iOS 14 and iOS 13 are able to run iOS 15, so that means all phones from iPhone 6s forwards are supported.
Best iPhone overall
This year's best overall iPhone currently goes to the iPhone 14 Pro Max. It's a mouthful, but for good reason. The 6.7-inch model is the largest of the iPhone 14 line and comes stacked with the latest features that Apple has to offer.
Apple iPhone 13
If you're buying an iPhone in early 2023, the smartest choice might just be 2021's iPhone 13. This is especially true if you're paying some or all of the cost out of pocket and not getting an “iPhone on us” carrier deal.
Apple may scrap iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max this year. Additionally, it may stop selling iPhone 11 and iPhone 12. That leaves us with iPhone 13, iPhone SE (2022), iPhone 14, and iPhone 14 Plus.
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.
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. The A13 has since been succeeded by the A14, A15, and A16.
It is part of the twelfth generation of the iPhone, alongside the higher-end iPhone XS/XS Max models. Pre-orders began on October 19, 2018, with an official release on October 26, 2018.
The iPhone 11 has a slightly better processor and battery capacity. The biggest difference, however, is camera performance, with the refurbished iPhone 11 coming with an additional lens and an impressive “Night” mode for taking nighttime shots without a flash.
The iPhone 11 was released in September 2019 and has since been succeeded by the iPhone 12, iPhone 13, and iPhone 14 lineups. Although newer series come with advanced features and design upgrades, the iPhone 11 is still a capable device for those who want to buy iPhone in 2023.
The iPhone 14 Pro and 14 Pro Max are the clear winners for the best iPhone camera award. If you want the best viewing experience, then go for the Max. If you like a smaller phone, the iPhone 14 Pro is for you.
For most users, the iPhone XS is a better choice. While it depends on your individual preferences, the iPhone XS feels like a more premium device compared to the XR, thanks to its build and additional features. A refurbished used iPhone XS offers an upgraded camera and display compared to the XR.
With an up-to-date operating system and decent enough processors, it's definitely an option if all you want is a cheap iPhone for a year or two. The tech is fine, it looks fine, and it'll keep ticking over just fine too. But bear in mind it may not be long before the software lets you down.
Apple says the iPhone 11 has up to one hour longer battery life than the iPhone XR overall. Based on Apple's internal testing, the iPhone 11 is rated for up to 17 hours of offline video playback, up to 10 hours of streaming video over Wi-Fi, and up to 65 hours of audio playback per charge.