I should add that one advantage of Apple’s Upgrade Program (where you can get a new phone every year interest-free) is that you are not tied to any particular provider (AT&T, Verizon, etc.).
I prefer that over buying from provider as it gives me leverage over the provider in case their service goes downhill or there are problems. I can switch any time.
I buy the phones outright, keeping my phone plans flexible. It also slows my upgrading down.
Basically, I keep them until they break, or Apple breaks them.
First personal (non-work) iPhone was the 2016 SE (5s body). Just moved to a 13 mini last year. So, small form factor > big screen/fancy features.
SE is still in perfect condition except reduced battery.
Out of curiosity I searched for this on the Australian web site - it appears it doesn’t exist down here. Maybe it’s a US only program. I doubt I’d use it anyway but was surprised I couldn’t find it.
Although I am risking the Evil Eye, the iPhone 8S phones my husband and I both use just about every day work just fine. Every year we diligently check out the new iPhones, but so far we haven’t found models that we consider worth the price.
We also happily use our ancient iPads.
That does make sense. Apple doesn’t fund it themselves – they use Citizens Bank here, who actually provide and manage the loan – so doing that in other countries would require a separate setup for each place, complying with local regulations, etc.
I’ve never figured out how Citizens makes any money on this since it’s interest-free and there are no fees. Maybe they charge a lot for missed payments or something? Could be that makes it more difficult for Apple to find overseas partners and expanding the Upgrade Program.
MMTalker, there is no reason a device that recent should not function or be able to run essential code. We don’t need the latest gee-whiz-bang-pow features. It has never ceased to amaze me how a perfectly functional iPhone will become a creaky, ancient relic after a single “update”.
That being said, I would be VERY hesitant to use those devices for accessing bank/financial or any sensitive accounts. And most certainly not with Safari. At least get Firefox for iOS which is actively being updated. The 8 is still getting occasional patches, but when they happen it is very likely to fix something very bad.
My friend just upgraded from their 8 to a 16 Pro and has mixed feelings. The larger screen, bells-and-whistles are nice (certainly the cameras), but they miss the home button and NOT activating multiple things every time they try and hold it out to show someone a photo.
If your 8S is seeming slow I would almost suggest finding an iPhone SE 3rd ed. (2022). However, they are the smaller, standard size vs your larger “S”. iPhone SE 2nd and 3rd editions (2020 and 2022) were essentially an iPhone 8 with the same screen, camera, home button, etc. but with the then-latest cpu/gpu core (which is a lot). Those who upgraded from a standard size iPhone 6, 7 or 8 could even use the same case.
The only thing I can think of would be that they are acting like a retailer - buying the phone at a wholesale price, but collecting payments for the retail price.
I would have just assumed Apple has a deal with them where Apple pays them behind the scenes to create this pipeline of guaranteed iPhone sales every single release. Marketing expense.
Citizens, like every company that makes interest free credit cards, earns an % every time one of the credit cards they issued is swiped.
But the Apple Upgrade Program is a fixed 24 loan payments. There is no credit card.
Could be, though you purchase the phone directly through Apple.
It could also be that Citizens does it to gain exposure or clients, similar to Apple’s deal with OpenAI or Goldman (for the Apple credit card). The latter, of course, has been a flop for Goldman, who now want out of the consumer business.
I notice quite a few of you didn’t jump on the bandwagon in 2007, instead waiting until the 3S / 4S era. I was flippin’ my phone until acquiring a iPhone 5 w/ 16GB. I did go through a couple of iPod Touch models before finally committing to an all-in-one smart device.
The 5’s limited storage and the impending shutdown of 3G service lead to a 7 w/128GB which I still use minus a SIM card in the kitchen & living room for music airplay, remote control of an Indigo home automation server, awareness of inbound texts when my current phone is elsewhere in the house, as well as a calculator, magnifier, timer etc. Will probably get a new battery installed this year before it enters obsolete status, then use it for another 5-10 years until the second battery dies!
I’d still be using the 7 for phone service except I had need for two phone lines and therefore a model with dual SIM support. A used SE2 w/ 64GB was the 2-line solution. I’ll probably get a new battery in the SE2 this year as well and be set for the long term, since I’m not in a hurry to move to a larger phone. I developed some anticipation of the SE3 update, but when the price point of the 16e was announced I realized it was mostly about desire rather than actual need. So I’ll wait to see if Apple can build a high-spec phone in a smaller size at a reasonable price—that’s an upgrade I can justify.
I dug up my iphone receipts over the years, and came up with this:
4s: 2011/10
5: 2012/10
5s: 2014/05
5se:2016/09
SE2020: 2020/07
13mini: 2022/02
I look at this purchase history and I see my preference for small phones. When I could replace my phone with another small model, I tended to get a newer model relatively soon. But when there was only significantly larger models available, I held out. So, I had the 5SE for almost 4 years, and now I’ve had my 13 mini for 3 years and counting. I’d buy a 17 mini tomorrow if it existed, but it doesn’t and it won’t, so I’ll keep my 13 mini until it no longer gets software updates.
I was (and still am) a Verizon customer. Apple didn’t support CDMA networks until the 4s, and I would not change service providers simply in order to buy an Apple product.
Before that 4s, I used a first-generation Motorola Droid, which worked great for the first year, but Android software quickly became too powerful for this hardware, so I really wanted to replace it by the end of the second year (when I could upgrade without penalty).
Before that, I was using flip-phones. I absolutely loved my Motorola RAZR V3c. Before that, I had an PCD/Audiovox CDM-8900, which worked fine until it dropped onto pavement and the screen became flaky afterward.
I’ve never figured out how Citizens makes any money on this since it’s interest-free and there are no fees. Maybe they charge a lot for missed payments or something? Could be that makes it more difficult for Apple to find overseas partners and expanding the Upgrade Program.
Citizens gets a % after an each swipe.
How often someone should buy new Apple hardware depends on their specific needs, usage patterns, budget, and the type of device. Here’s a breakdown to help guide the decision:
General Factors to Consider
If you’re a casual user (browsing, streaming, light productivity), Apple devices often remain functional for 5–7 years or more due to their build quality and long-term software support.
Professionals (e.g., video editors, developers, or gamers) may need to upgrade every 2–4 years to keep up with demanding software or workflows.
Apple typically provides macOS and iOS updates for 6–8 years after a device’s release. For example, macOS Sequoia (2024) supports Macs as old as 2017 for some models.
Once software updates stop, security risks increase, and newer apps may not work, nudging users toward an upgrade.
Battery degradation (especially in iPhones, iPads, and MacBooks) can reduce usability after 3–5 years. Apple’s battery replacement service ($99–$199) can extend life if other components are still adequate.
Physical wear, storage limitations, or outdated ports (e.g., USB-A vs. USB-C) may also prompt an upgrade.
Annual Apple releases often introduce incremental improvements (e.g., better cameras, faster chips). If new features like Apple Intelligence (introduced with M4 chips in 2024) or 5G connectivity are critical, upgrading sooner makes sense.
However, “game-changing” upgrades (e.g., major redesigns or chip transitions like Intel to Apple Silicon) are less frequent, happening every 4–6 years.
Apple devices hold resale value well, often 40–60% of original price after 2–3 years. Selling an old device can offset the cost of a new one.
If budget is tight, consider waiting for major releases or buying refurbished models from Apple’s certified program.
Device-Specific Guidelines
Average Upgrade Cycle: 2–4 years.
Why? iPhones get annual updates, but significant changes (e.g., new designs, camera systems, or features like Dynamic Island) come every 2–3 years. Battery life often degrades after 2–3 years (800–1,000 charge cycles), and iOS updates support devices for ~6–8 years (e.g., iPhone 8 from 2017 got iOS 16 in 2022).
When to Upgrade:
Your battery health is below 80%, and replacement isn’t cost-effective.
You need new features (e.g., better low-light photography, 120Hz ProMotion).
Your device no longer gets iOS updates or struggles with modern apps.
Tip: If you upgrade frequently (every 1–2 years), Apple’s iPhone Upgrade Program can spread costs via monthly payments.
Average Upgrade Cycle: 4–7 years.
Why? Macs are built for longevity, and Apple Silicon (M1, M2, M3, M4) has dramatically improved performance and efficiency. macOS supports older devices for ~7–8 years, and many 2015–2017 Intel Macs still run modern apps (though some are excluded from macOS Sequoia).
When to Upgrade:
Your Mac can’t handle your workload (e.g., slow video rendering, frequent crashes).
You’re on an Intel-based Mac, and software optimizations favor Apple Silicon.
You need newer ports, displays (e.g., mini-LED), or Apple Intelligence features (requires M1 or later).
Tip: If you’re still on an Intel Mac, upgrading to an M-series Mac (even an older M1) can feel transformative due to efficiency and battery life improvements.
Average Upgrade Cycle: 3–6 years.
Why? iPads are versatile but less frequently updated than iPhones. iPadOS supports devices for ~6–8 years, and high-end models (iPad Pro) are overpowered for most tasks, making them future-proof. However, budget models (e.g., base iPad) may feel dated sooner.
When to Upgrade:
Your iPad no longer supports the latest Apple Pencil or keyboard accessories.
You need M-series chips for pro apps (e.g., Final Cut Pro) or Apple Intelligence.
Battery life or storage is insufficient for your needs.
Tip: If you use your iPad for basic tasks (note-taking, media), older models like the iPad Air 4 (2020) remain capable.
Average Upgrade Cycle: 3–5 years.
Why? Annual updates are minor (e.g., slightly better sensors or displays). watchOS supports devices for ~5–6 years, and battery life degrades after 2–3 years. New health features (e.g., sleep apnea detection in Series 10) may entice fitness-focused users.
When to Upgrade:
Battery life is too short for daily use.
You want new sensors (e.g., ECG, blood oxygen) or a larger display.
Your model no longer gets watchOS updates.
Tip: If fitness tracking isn’t a priority, older models like Series 4 or 5 still work for notifications and basic apps.
AirPods: Upgrade every 2–4 years if battery life drops significantly (1–2 hours vs. original 5–6 hours). New features like ANC or spatial audio may also justify it.
Apple TV: Upgrade every 4–6 years or when your model lacks support for new apps or formats (e.g., 4K HDR). The 2022 Apple TV 4K is still current.
HomePod: Upgrade only if new features (e.g., Matter support, spatial audio) are critical, as older models remain functional for music and Siri.
Practical Recommendations
Casual Users: Upgrade every 5–7 years or when your device no longer gets software updates or meets basic needs. Consider refurbished or budget models (e.g., iPhone SE, base iPad).
Power Users: Upgrade every 2–4 years to stay on the cutting edge, especially for Macs or iPhones with demanding workloads. Wait for major chip upgrades (e.g., M5 in 2025) for bigger leaps.
Budget-Conscious: Extend device life with battery replacements, storage upgrades (for Macs), or by buying last year’s model at a discount. Sell or trade in old devices to reduce costs.
Community forums / social media suggests many users upgrade iPhones every 2–3 years for new features or carrier deals, while Mac users often wait 5+ years unless they’re professionals. AirPods upgrades are common when batteries fail (~2–3 years).
Example Timeline
iPhone: Buy an iPhone 16 (2024); expect it to last until ~2030 with iOS updates, but consider upgrading in 2027–2028 if battery or performance lags.
MacBook: A 2023 MacBook Pro with M2 should handle most tasks until 2028–2030. Upgrade sooner if you need M4/M5 features.
iPad: An iPad Air 5 (2022) is good until ~2027–2028 for casual use; pros may upgrade to an M4 iPad Pro (2024) by 2026 for new apps.
Grok A.I is quite excellent lately.
I haven’t thought about the GSM – CDMA/TDMA divide for many years, but you’ve reminded me that it was a factor in my choice of phone model during the 2000–2012 period. I started on Sprint in the late 90’s with a Sony candy bar phone that had a unique scroll-wheel on the side to navigate the menus, but it rode in a hip holster not a pocket. That phone was solid, with Apple build quality before Apple had actually established the standard!
Alas, Sprint service was not as solid and I had to abandon them and the TDMA-only Sony phone. Moved to Verizon and another Sony phone—this one was a flip phone that was extremely small and pocketable (yea!) and relatively fragile. A ribbon cable in the Sony’s hinge failed after 2–3 years, so I chose a Motorola E815 flip phone. That served until 2013 when I switched to an iPhone 5.
Another thing I haven’t thought of in years is how the flimsy antenna needed to to be extended / retracted for each use of those older phones!
My wife changed from a 3SE to a 15 back in October because she wanted better response using DuoLinguo and it caused her to have a lot of hand pain. Her doctor suggested getting something to hold the phone or putting the phone in her pocket and using a headphone when walking around. She hadn’t had any problems with previous the 3SE or the original SE. She does not have small hands, but she finds the 15 uncomfortable to hold.
Is anybody else having similar problems? “Smartphone tendinitis” has become a thing Ortho-pinion - Smartphone Tendinitis - AAOS.
This is a really good point. Over the decades I have found that selling an Apple device after 2-3 years was better than keeping it longer because that’s when you get peak resale value for it.
If you’re going to keep it for longer than that, you might as well plan on keeping it for 6+ years and not getting (relatively) anything for it.
Still using iPhone SE with upgraded battery. I will keep using it (or one of my replacement backups) for as long as I can make/receive calls.
Don’t care about OS upgrades. Don’t need a vending machine in my pocket. Don’t use it as a movie recorder. Prefer wired headset. Do most things on my iPad mini, so I just want a small phone with messaging and a few apps.