It's important to select the right iPhone model with enough iOS updates support. This will ensure speed, security, and app compatibility. Here are the pros, and cons, of every factor to be considered when evaluating a phone for longevity.
1. Apple's official iOS Timeline
How to Verify
Take a look at the number of years that the model is updated.
The earlier iPhone 8 will be updated more frequently than the latest iPhone 12+.
Pros:
Calculate the amount of support left.
Cons:
Apple has not announced the exact date for the cutoff date.
2. Compare Chipset Generations
Key Models & Processors:
A15, iPhone 13: Still robust after more than three years.
A12 (iPhone XR/XS) Most likely to be near the close to the end of support.
Pros:
Software support can be longer on more recent chips.
Cons:
Certain older chips (A11) even though they are functional, lack the necessary updates.
3. Beware of "Vintage", "Obsolete" Avoid "Obsolete", "Vintage" or "Old" models
How do you check:
Apple's vintage listing (i.e. iPhone 6 obsolete).
Pros:
Beware of buying devices that aren't supported.
Cons:
Some older models can still be used for basic tasks.
4. Verify Latest iOS Version Compatibility
What to look for:
Select Settings > General > About Software Version.
It's possible that you not receive app support if have an old iOS device (iOS 15, e.g.).
Pros:
You will have access to the most recent security patches.
Cons:
Some users prefer older iOS versions because of their durability.
5. Research App Developer Support
Trends to Follow
Support for older iOS version has been removed by the major apps such as WhatsApp, banking, and many other applications.
Pros:
Beware of buying a device that can't run your essential apps.
Cons:
Certain niche apps still work on older versions of iOS.
6. Prioritize iPhones running 64-bit processors (iPhone 5s & Newer).
What is the significance of it:
32-bit phones (iPhone 5 and up) stopped app support years ago.
Pros:
Compatibility with basic apps is guaranteed.
Cons:
Even phones with 64 bits eventually cease receiving updates.
7. Check RAM & Performance bottlenecks
Key Models:
Applications that need 2GB of RAM on the iPhone 8 are unable to run.
4GB+ RAM (iPhone 12+) Better at multitasking.
Pros:
More RAM = Smoother Performance over Time
Cons:
Harder to test without benchmarks.
8. Consider the future of your 5G network
Models that use 5G:
iPhone 12 and later.
Pros:
Increased longevity of the network
Cons:
Battery life is reduced by 5G.
9. Beware of CDMA or copyright-Locked Models
Why it Matters
Verizon/Sprint CDMA iPhones might not function well on modern networks.
Pros:
Improved network compatibility.
Cons:
Certain CDMA-compatible phones are capable of working with 4G.
10. Balance Cost vs. Longevity
Smart Buy Strategy
Budget Choice - iPhone 11 (1-2 Years Left).
Best Value: iPhone 12/13 with 3-4 Years left.
Long-Term Use: iPhone 14/15 (5+years left).
Pros:
Maximizes the amount per year of use.
Cons:
Newer models cost more initially.
Final Tips
iPhone 12 or higher is the best option to get three years worth of updates.
Avoid iPhone X/XS/XR if a prolonged usage is needed.
Apple's iOS Update History can reveal patterns.
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10 Tips To Verify The Activation Lock And Icloud Status On Used/Refurbished Iphones
If you purchase a device that has Activation Lock or iCloud Lock could turn it into a costly paperweight. Verify iCloud status with each of these methods before you buy an iPhone.
1. Apple's Website lets you determine if your iPhone iPad is locked.
How to check:
Go to Apple's Activation Lock Status Page and enter the serial number or IMEI.
Pros:
Official Apple verification
Working before purchase (if the seller provides IMEI).
Cons:
Some sellers do not want to share IMEI at the beginning
2. Perform a Reset Full in Person
How to check:
Go to Settings > General > Reset Clear all settings and content.
When asked for Apple ID password when resetting iCloud Locked
Pros:
The most reliable test in person
Cons:
Requires Cooperation from Seller
All data must be erased (seller may refuse).
3. Check My iPhone Status
How to Check:
Go to Settings > [Apple ID Name]» > Find My Find My iPhone
If a device that has been enabled remains connected to a particular account
Pros:
Check it out before purchasing
Cons:
Sellers can disable it for a temporary period
4. Look for "Hello Screen" on Startup
How to Check
On iPhones with a functioning SIM card, it should show "Hello" as the setup screen
If it's configured to Home Screen only, you could be left out.
Pros:
The red flags are evident
Cons:
Some sellers are able to restore their properties properly.
5. Verify iCloud Account in Settings
How to check:
Apple ID Name at the Top of Settings
If an email address is listed, it's but you are not signed in
Pros:
Verifies if the account is active
Cons:
The seller can take down your account after presenting it to you.
6. Ask for original receipts of purchases
What is the significance of it:
Apple needs proof to remove Activation Lock
Pros:
The seller must give receipts.
Cons:
The majority of iPhones in good used condition do not come with documents
7. Verify the Remote Management (MDM lock)
Checking:
When you are setting up, click on "Remote Management". This allows you to set corporate/school locks.
Pros:
Reveals hidden enterprise locks
Cons:
It is the only time it is apparent is following reset
8. Make use of third-party IMEI Checkers
Services such as:
Swappa ESN Checker - IMEI24
Pros:
Confirm the status of the blacklist or FMI.
Cons:
You may be charged a charge
Not 100% Reliable
9. Test iCloud Features
How to check:
Use Find My Device or iCloud for enabling backups.
If blocked account still linked
Pros:
Proves complete iCloud functionality
Cons:
Account access is required
10. Beware of claims that claim to unlock iCloud
Red Flags:
"Bypassed by DNS method"
It's functional, but you cannot upgrade iOS
Pros:
Avoiding illegal bypasses
Cons:
Some sellers don't reveal this information.
Key Takeaways
Always check Activation Lock before paying
Don't trust devices that are registered with an Apple ID
Beware of iCloud bypassed iPhones
Best Practice
Apple Store Verification: Meet in an Apple Store
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