Level 1

8 points

iPhone life expectancy

I am considering purchasing my first iPhone but am concerned about the realistic life expectancy, having heard about ‘built in obsolescence’ and such like.

I am reluctantly having to replace my current Windows phone, over 5 years old and working as well as it did the first day I had it, and cost a fraction of what am now looking at spending!

So I’d like to know, please, how long should I realistically expect an iPhone to last? (I’m thinking either XR or 8+)

I’m not a heavy user (I’m old enough that my phone doesn’t run my life and I don’t have to be surgically separated from it as if it were a third lung) I would anticipate using it for a few emails a day, a few photos every now and again, messaging/whatsapp and making a few phone calls a week. I turn my phone off at night and while I am at work.

Thanks in advance for any help.

iPhone XR

Posted on Sep 17, 2019 11:32 PM

Top-ranking reply

Michael Black

Level 10

81,417 points

Posted on Sep 18, 2019 9:45 AM

In my own experience (6 iPhones, currently using an XS with the iPhone 7 it replaced still used but without cellular service) I would say that if one takes care with their device, an iPhone can easily remain fully functional for at least 5 or more years. Battery may need replacing during its used lifetime, but that’s because they inherently wear out.

I do use a case with my iPhones. My preference is Sena folio cases so the screen is covered when not in use. My 3 year old iPhone 7 looks almost like it just came out of the box for the first time and everything works as it originally did. And my iPhone is my only telephone so is always with me (so it is not like mine don’t get used all the time, inside, outside and everywhere).

The only iPhone hardware issue I've ever had since 2008 with my first is the power button on my iPhone 5 does not work reliable. This was a known issue with the 5 and there was an extended service program for it, but by the time mine developed the problem I decided to upgrade anyway. And other than the power button, that iPhone 5’s hardware still works just fine today.

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Higaomo Author

Level 1

8 points

Sep 18, 2019 9:13 AM in response to ProustGiulio

Thanks again, ProustGuilio

My daughter got an XR 8-9 months ago and is very happy with it. If I bought an XR I would need/want it to last me at least 4-5 years to be ‘worth’ the cost. The 8+ would only ‘need’ to last me 3-4 years to get the same value from it, but is obviously a year older model to start with so, presumably, the software would lose support a year earlier...

Higaomo Author

Level 1

8 points

Sep 18, 2019 11:14 AM in response to y_p_w

Thanks, y_p_w

Could you please explain what you mean by “for a current model the ability to replace the battery isn't going to be an issue”?

(I too suspect that the Lightning Port could be a weak point...)

Higaomo Author

Level 1

8 points

Sep 18, 2019 11:21 AM in response to Phil0124

Thanks, Phil0124

I know that just because they stop getting software updates at around 5 years, does not mean they stop working in terms of making calls, the camera etc, but had to replace my iPad as the inability to update iOS increasingly prevented me from doing various things online (I suspect it may have been due to updates in the various websites security requirements)

Sep 18, 2019 11:33 AM in response to Higaomo

Higaomo wrote:

(I too suspect that the Lightning Port could be a weak point...)

In my experience, the lightning port is not a weak point. Until a couple of years ago, I managed a service department for a major U.S. cellular carrier. Generally, problems with the lightning port were the result of lint or other debris getting stuck inside it. A careful cleaning generally resolves those issues fairly quickly. I use plastic interdental brushes (those things your dentist tells you to use when flossing isn't doing the trick).

I suspect you were correct in putting the quotes around the word "need" for the young person.

Higaomo Author

Level 1

8 points

Sep 18, 2019 8:51 AM in response to ProustGiulio

Thank you, ProustGiulio, yes I realise this is a user to user support forum, that is exactly why I asked the question here - I was looking for the experience of actually ‘real life’ iPhone users

ProustGiulio

Level 10

211,190 points

Sep 18, 2019 9:47 AM in response to Higaomo

Higaomo wrote:

Thanks again, ProustGuilio

....., but is obviously a year older model to start with so, presumably, the software would lose support a year earlier...

That's the dilemma.. :-)

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iPhone life expectancy