7 signs that you know "when to replace the iPhone"

Even though you don't have to buy a new iPhone every time it's released, there will come a time when you'll have to upgrade to a newer model.

However, it is quite difficult to determine when it is time to replace.

"There are various problems, but I'm not sure if I can fix it and still use it, or if I should buy a new one."

For those who have such troubles, here are 7 signs that will tell you when it's time to replace your iPhone.

Contents

1. Not enough space

2. I can't download the latest iOS software

3. The battery drains extremely fast

4. I can't use the latest accessories

5. Sometimes it's cheaper to buy a new one than to repair it

6. Do you have enough mobile network connection?

7. iPhone not working properly

How long will my iPhone last?

Your iPhone will last quite a while if you take good care of it. It's a rough estimate, but you can use it for about 4 to 7 years.

Most models can update iOS even many years after launch. The iPhone 6 was launched in 2014, but as of 2021, you could still install the iOS 14 update.

Of course, the lifespan of the iPhone depends not only on Apple's convenience, but also on how the user uses it. Improper use will, of course, shorten its lifespan.

Okay, now that you know the approximate lifespan of your iPhone, let's take a look at each of the seven signs that tell you it's time to replace your iPhone.

1. Insufficient space

A common problem for iPhone users is lack of free space.

If you don't keep things organized, your iPhone can quickly fill up with files, apps, photos, music, and more. If you're having trouble freeing up space, start by deleting things you don't need one by one.

However, sometimes the capacity is too small to meet all your needs. If you feel like you're always running out of space, even with normal usage, you might want to consider upgrading to a model with a larger capacity.

2. I can't download the latest iOS software

"Why don't you make a fuss about not having the latest iOS software?"

It may seem so at first.

But new features aren't the only reason you should update your iPhone regularly. If you don't have the latest iOS software installed, security risks such as malware will skyrocket.

Even if your beloved iPhone doesn't receive the latest iOS updates, it may still work normally for a while.

However, just to be on the safe side, it would be wise to replace your iPhone with the latest software to protect yourself.

3. The Battery Drains Extremely Fast

Of course, the older the iPhone, the faster the battery drains.

Temporary factors such as cold weather can cause the battery to drain faster, but if you need a quick charge, it may be best to replace it.

If you think you can still update iOS and it's a little too early to buy a new one, consider replacing the battery.

Battery replacement should be much cheaper. If you don't ask Apple to replace it directly, choose an Apple-certified repair shop.

4. You can't use the latest accessories

Apple occasionally upgrades the design of iPhone accessories. A good example of this is the replacement of the 30-pin with a Lightning connector and the removal of the headphone jack.

Just because your accessories are new doesn't mean you have to buy an iPhone right away.

But keep this in mind. Once these accessories are discontinued, it can be difficult to find quality replacements when they break.

If your current charger is no longer manufactured, it may be easier to buy a new iPhone instead of finding a new one online.

5. Even if it's cheaper to buy a new one than repair

One of the most requested iPhone repairs is to replace a cracked screen. You may not want to pay for repairs upfront, but it's a lot cheaper than buying a new iPhone.

However, if the damage is severe, repair costs may increase. For example, if you drop your iPhone and need to replace both the front and back cameras and the home button in addition to the screen.

If you have a newer model, getting these parts replaced may cost you less than buying a new iPhone. However, if your iPhone is years old, it may be less expensive and less time-consuming to replace it.

6. Do you have enough mobile network connectivity?

You don't need 5G for instant mobile network connectivity, but to get the most out of your iPhone, I want at least 4G.

Older devices are almost always left behind when mobile network infrastructure is updated. Texting and phone calls work, but doing anything else without Wi-Fi can be a daunting task.

I want to use it in a place where I can't connect to Wi-Fi, but my iPhone has become difficult to connect to the mobile network. In such a case, it seems better to buy a new iPhone.

7. My iPhone isn't working properly

Your iPhone may work fine even if your software is outdated and your screen is cracked. Even so, there will come a day when things will not work as expected.

"The other party says it's hard to hear what you're saying," "The app keeps crashing," and "Buttons and touchscreen don't work."

If you're having problems like this, you may have no choice but to buy a new iPhone.

20,800 yen

Original Article: 7 Signs It’s Time to Upgrade Your iPhone by MakeUseOf