How Often To Upgrade Iphone

Although you don't always need to buy the latest iPhone, you will eventually need to upgrade to a newer device. But knowing when to upgrade your iPhone is sometimes difficult.

Are you having issues with your phone but don't know if you should get the device fixed or buy a new one altogether? This guide will identify the most prominent signs that it's time to upgrade your iPhone after all.

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. In 2021, the iPhone 6—released in 2014—was still able to install iOS 14 updates.

Of course, how long your phone lasts will depend on you and not just Apple. If you regularly misuse your device, its lifespan will naturally decline.

Now you know how long your iPhone should last for, check out the signs below that it's time to upgrade your device now.

1. You Never Have Space on Your Phone

Low storage space is a common problem for iPhone users. If you don't regularly declutter your device, all the files, apps, pictures, and music can really add up. When struggling to free up enough space on your phone, going through and deleting everything irrelevant to you is an excellent first port of call.

Sometimes, though, our phone's storage space is too small to cater to all our needs. If you find that you regularly run out of room while using your iPhone at normal levels, you might want to consider upgrading to one with more storage.

2. You Can't Download the Latest iOS Software

At first, not having the latest iOS software may not seem like a big deal. But keeping your phone regularly updated is essential for reasons that go beyond new features. If you don't have the most recent Apple software, you might expose yourself to malware and other security risks.

Once your phone stops receiving the latest iOS updates, you might find that it still works like normal for a little while. But for your own safety, upgrading your iPhone and protecting yourself with the latest software is probably a smart idea.

3. Your Battery Drains Too Fast

As your iPhone gets older, your battery will naturally drain faster, too. Temporary factors, like cold weather, can cause this to happen as well. But if you find that you're unable to spend too long on your device without needing to charge it, upgrading might be your best bet.

If you still get new iOS updates and don't want to get a new phone, you might want to instead consider getting your battery replaced. Doing so is likely to cost a lot less; just remember to use a certified repair store if you don't order the repair directly through Apple.

4. You Can't Use the Latest Chargers and Accessories

Occasionally, Apple upgrades the design of its iPhone accessories. The shift from 30-pin to Lightning connectors and the removal of the headphone jack are good examples.

Although you don't need to upgrade your iPhone as soon as these changes happen, you should keep it in the back of your mind. Once Apple stops producing these accessories, you may find high-quality versions harder to find if yours break.

If your phone's current charger has been phased out, upgrading your device might be less hassle than finding a new one online.

5. Fixing Your Phone Would Be More Expensive Than Buying a New One

Replacing a cracked screen is one of the most commonly-ordered iPhone repairs. And while the payment upfront is annoying, it's nowhere near as expensive as needing to buy a new phone.

If your phone has sustained significant damage, however, the costs can add up. For example, you might drop your phone but need to replace both your front and back cameras and Home button, in addition to the screen.

For newer iPhones, getting these parts replaced might still cost less than buying a new phone. But if your device is a few years old, you may find that upgrading to a newer iPhone costs less—and requires less effort on your part.

6. You Can't Get Sufficient Mobile Network Coverage

Although you don't need to have 5G to get quick mobile coverage, having at least 4G will allow you to get the most out of your device.

Whenever tech companies upgrade the mobile network infrastructure, older devices are often left behind. You'll probably still be able to text and call people, but trying to do anything else without Wi-Fi will become more laborious.

Once your phone no longer receives sufficient network coverage levels, and you plan on using it away from Wi-Fi, upgrading to a new device is a bright idea.

7. Your Phone Doesn't Work

Even if you don't have the latest software or your screen is obliterated, you may find that your iPhone still works well. Eventually, though, the chances are high that your device will stop performing at anywhere near an adequate level.

If people struggle to hear what you're saying on the phone, your apps constantly crash, or your buttons and touch screen don't work, upgrading a new device might be your only option.

It Might Be Time to Get a New iPhone

Getting an iPhone is a worthy long-term investment. If you treat your device properly, you'll find that it lasts for years and continues to perform well throughout that time.

And even if something happens, you may find that replacing a single part is more cost-effective and convenient than upgrading altogether.

Eventually, though, all gadgets reach the end of their lives. And knowing when your iPhone is on its last legs is essential. If you've tried to free up space to no avail, you're no longer receiving updates, or you can't get good cell coverage, it's probably time to upgrade to a new iPhone.

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