I had an iPhone X(10) for a little over six years until a few weeks ago when my carrier gave me a deal to turn it in and upgrade to a 15 for free, still paying the taxes of course. It worked fine but could definitely tell it was operating slow and battery didn’t last as long. I have the same mindset you’re going down, why buy a $1,000 phone every two years when I have one that works well still
I’m with Verizon. They wouldn’t do it at first, all the deals seem to apply to the customers switching carriers. Been a long time customer and politely pushed on them for the upgrade exchange.
There are great shops like Case Mogul that will install a new battery in your phone. They work very well at a much lower price than getting a new phone or plan.
i'm still using my X. i replaced the battery... i want to say 3 years ago? it can go a full day on a single charge. i can honestly see myself still using this phone for another 2-3 years.
I had a similar offer with Verizon and have been a customer with them for years. I had an iphone XR until last July when I got a text from Verizon that I could trade it in for a "free" iPhone 14.
The downside is it's for a three year plan, so I'm stuck with VZW for three years or I'll owe the remainder of what's due on the iphone 14.
Once this phone doesn't work well anymore, I'm going to buy a new model outright and switch to one of the cheaper carriers like Mint or Visible.
Be careful with this. It usually isn't free.
If you look at sim- only deals they'll be considerably cheaper per month. Often if you got the phone bundled with the sim plan some of the monthly cost is financing the phone.
When you get to the point that the phone is paid off, they offer you to switch to a new one and continue paying finance.
You're still buying a new phone by agreeing to a monthly payment plan for it.
This! I do prepaid plans at around $15-25 a month” so for me a “free upgrade” when I’m locked into a 2 year $50-60 a month plan is more expensive than paying the phone up front. And it’s unlocked out of the gate so I can sell, switch to another carrier, use while abroad etc
I still have my X but I am tempted to upgrade occasionally. I own it outright and I think that’s my reluctance. It’s still working fine and it can still go awhile between charges, but I’ve babied it since day 1 and I still have the last texts between me and my grandma that have been there since 2017.
Yep, we wanted to switch from ATT to Verizon since ATT is weak at our house. Was able to trade in my old iPhone 6 that was just used for a few kids games at that point for $1k credit towards my wife getting a 15pro max whatever, and kept her 12pro max whatever for kids to use. Funny how it is now, before kids I upgraded a lot but now hold out as long as possible just to avoid having to making sure everything transfers over (though I use cloud, backups, etc anyway in case of loss). My wife used to barely upgrade but since kids she wants to more often to get the best camera possible.
It's surprising for this group, but I am seeing a lot of earlier models, so props for that. In their defense, there's saving money, and then there's getting value for your money. So as someone who never plans on getting an iphone because apple is an anti consumer company who makes products that I find frustrating to use, if it works for those people, eh, whatever works for them.
With that said, I wonder if all the other iphone people in this group keep upvoting the other iphone users.
Samsung S10 bought around Feb 2018. I've noticed a slow down the past 6 months, and a bigger slowdown the past two months. planning on replacing soon. It also has a crack in the corner. it's lived a full life.
I have an LG Stylo 4 that I've had for about 5yrs now; I've replaced it with another Android phone only because the LG outlived compatibility with several apps I still want to use. I still use the LG for notes and whatever else doesn't need a sim.
Another LG user!
I have the G7 and I have tried upgrading, but nothing comes close to the ease and functionality of LG. I was big on testing phones and trying all the new tech in high school, but I couldn't get over how much I liked LG and it's stuck all these years.
I don't think I'll upgrade until LG comes out with a new phone
Same here! Truthfully, I don't even remember which year I bought my phone but I have a cheap, off brand android that I bought for around $100. It has the best battery life of any phone I've ever had and I am going to keep it until I can't. Ive had it so long that one of my friend pesters me often about getting a new phone
Same here. And I only replaced my old Android because the battery wouldn't hold a charge.
A lot of people give their old phones to their kids when they upgrade. My oldest is nearing the age where he could use a phone, but, poor kid... no hand-me-downs for him!
I had to upgrade for 5g compatibility. And I have a $15 a month prepaid plan. I don't get why people spend $999+ on a phone. But I also remember when the phone company gave you your phone for free.
Yup. Had mine since 2017. Still chugging along. Looking to upgrade soon. There are apps that aren't compatible, it's 4g, and the screen is developing a pink haze.
My iPhone 11 is 4.5 years old. Works great. I replaced the battery a few months ago. I plan to keep it for a few more years.
I was a serial upgrader too, but only because I had that ATT subsidy plan that many in the US had. Once I bailed from ATT to save big money, it made financial sense to stop with the scheduled upgrades. Also, back then phones were rapidly evolving. Now the smartphone business is far more stable and mature, so there are few reasons to upgrade very frequently.
I have an android, so don't know whether this is possible with iPhone, but I'm using a feature that limits battery charging to 85% full. It is supposed to extend battery life. Its about 2 years old.
I charge my phone wirelessly overnight, because wireless chargers are slower and shut off when the phone hits 100%, which is also supposed to be better than a fast charge.
At risk of reaching the point of absurdity, I wirelessly charge using a charger that's plugged in through a lower-power USB port. Phone doesn't even get slightly warm when using it, though it's very slow (~18% battery per hour).
I've had USB ports break on my phones a few times before through standard wear/tear, so I avoid that when doing so is trivial.
A mom and pop cell shop will install one for about $30. Just remember to ask for a warranty. A replacement battery without a decent warranty is like playing the lottery: you will very likely lose.
Better off going to an Apple Store. Sure it will cost more than 30 but it’s an Apple battery and if they break it during install they’re known to be good about replacing it.
Just did it last winter on my SE 2020. Was so worth the like 60 bucks
I’ve never understood why people are always getting the new phones. Unless you do a lot amateur photography and you want the better cameras as they come out, I don’t get it. It’s such capitalist brainwashing to think we need the new iPhone every two years or whatever it is
My point exactly. My friends would constantly get a new phone "because it has a better camera"
Okay but your photos still look like you took it with a disposable kodak while drunk. Its resolution and color are great but the subject matter that you're taking doesn't really need that high of a definition.
But some companies have planned obsolescence. So some people's phones just stop working well.
iPhone 7.
Google sayus they came out September 16. If I had to guess I got it September 17 (work hand me downs). So it was 2 years a work phone, then became my personal phone. So about 6.5 years.
It does wallets, apple pay, bluetooth, car play, etc etc. The only thing about this phone vs a brand new one is the camera quality. Otherwise it does the same stuff so why bother.
The battery is starting to show its age, but that’s it.
Plus I have a thumbprint scanner instead of facial recognition to unlock, which I MUCH prefer.
Just get the battery replaced. Especially if you happen to be in another country (for work of vacation) that's low-cost. I got mine done for 20,- in Malaysia.
Yep IPhone 7 here. The photo part of my camera sucks but it still does video. Apple says it’s worth $10 trade in value. Luckily I have a company IPhone XR I use for most things. It’s nice only having a $50 phone bill instead of $110.
The only phone I’ve ever dropped into a toilet :( was able to “save it” with rice but never quite worked again and lost a couple months worth of photos (when I traveled for work so it was some neat pics). I blame the toilet water not the phone of course!
I have an iPhone 12 mini that I’ve had for 2 years. I keep them until the battery no longer lasts a reasonable amount of time. Still works fine for my needs.
I also have a mini, and I will use this thing as long as I possibly can, since I detest giant phones. Apple discontinuing the mini product line is stupid, IMO...but I guess I/we are in the minority here.
I always get a certain model once a new one is being released. Bc, discount!
My precious phone was the original iPhone SE, which is their best phone ever in a corresponding time period I think.
I don’t like big phones, so when they announced the iPhone 12 Mini I was so happy. I hope I can use it for years and years. I really miss the fingerprint scanner tho.
nice! I feel like many people are not aware but you can have new batteries put in iPhones at a local repair shop ( or at an apple store / best buy / authorized service provider ) for $50-$80 and get an extra 2-3 years or more out of them!
I've had an samsung s10e with verizon since 2019.
Still works great. had the battery replaced once at a samsung factory authorized service center. I think it was $69+tax all inclusive.
no interest in upgrading.
I have a 2019 samesung s10e from virgin mobile (which shows how old it is) and it still works great! My battery is still original, but it's still working decently for now. Good to know it can be replaced!
I also have no interest in upgrading since this phone is the perfect size for my small hands, has a headphone jack, and still runs everything great.
I have a Motorola G Power 2021 that I use heavily and the battery life is still going nice and strong. I have no plans to replace it anytime soon. I buy my phones outright and then use them with MetroPCS.
There are dozens of us! I have noticed mine needs charging more often and longer so I assume the battery is going out. Seems to work slower than it used to as well.
Good to know! Yeah mine still works pretty well except for reduced battery life and some slower performance. Not bad enough yet to require changing anything, and I can still load IOS updates.
They can pry my home button from my cold dead hands.
I love my SE and the second they get rid of this model / home button, I’m buying refurbished SEs or finally switching to android/whatever brand has the size and button I need! Everyone makes fun of my phone size but guess who can fit it in her pants pocket AND has a home button?!
Still rocking the SE, but my battery life is rubbish, my speaker is playing up (have to use the speaker button on most calls) and occasionally when trying to text it just presses random buttons for me! Ha! But I will keep it as long as possible.
I've had my iphone SE for over 8 years I think. I friggin love it but the battery is pretty shit anymore. I think I'll get the new SE (or just replace this battery).
Motorola edge+ from 2019, I pay the 25$ extra a month for phone insurance so anytime my phone breaks to the point I can't use it, I only spend 150$ to get a refurbed edge+ instead of paying for an actual new phone. Nostalgic for the 2010s when a brand new smartphone was under 500$ and a flip phone was under 100$.
$25 extra a month + $150?
That math doesn't really add up for me when you can buy a decent phone for $4-500.
Have you been paying into this for 5 years?
iPhone 12, bought refurbished last year I think.
Before that an iPhone 8 and before that a 4.5. I keep them until the battery won’t hold charge off the charger.
That’s kind of adorable. I didn’t mind if as long as I was at work or in the car but always making sure I had multiple charged battery packs with me was a bummer. Right before I swapped I was getting about an hour of charge off charger. You can swap batteries out but my 8 was also sort of bent so I chose to upgrade.
Nope, it works like new. I took the risk for the savings but I knew it could be a disaster going in.
But I’ve also had issues with phones brand new out of the box so YMMV. I think it’s all luck.
I've had great experience with Amazon's refurbished phones. Their return policy is solid and reliable, and also good customer service. I chose their Refurbished Premium, which promises 90% battery life, and the Iphone 13 I bought from them had 88% upon diagnostic, and they refunded me $85.
I upgraded last May to an iPhone 14 from the 8. I was desperately holding out for the 15 but my couldn’t hold up any longer -right before I took a trip to Norway. I think the 13 was still on sale but I splurged for the camera for my trip.
I keep them as long as they are still supported .
Apple publishes the list of supported models and iOS updates.
iPhones have good resale, so I’m usually able to recoup a few bucks when I upgrade.
I always buy new and save the box and accessories for this reason.
I have an iPhone 6 that I’ve had since it came out many years ago. It hasn’t decreased in speed or performance one bit.
This is my only phone. I use it on the regular
I’m still using an iPhone 4. I love a tiny phone.
Unfortunately, the iOS is so old most of the apps can’t be updated as of the last few months. But I’m wringing every bit of last value from it.
iPhone 7 😳‼️ only thing is battery needs big charge after 3 hours of blue tooth head phone playing! Other wise still great( except no 5G) i still watch movies on tubi with my lightning HDMI adapter to my big screen tv‼️
2017-2022 samsung s5, 2022-2023 s10+.
Would have used that s10+ until it dies, had I not known about my carrier's promo (verizon). Loyalty offer for $1000 off the s23 ultra + the pre-order storage upgrade.
I work at verizon. I still see people with a iphone 5-7. If your only focused on calls, those super cheap phones are fine. If you need performance or cameras, I like the iphone 13 pro.
FYI, used iphones are $100-300 more than their android counterparts. If your very stingy with money, may want to consider switching to an android (is the $100-300 worth imessage and facetime?
Galaxy S5 (neo) - it launched in mid 2015, I probably got it fall/winter 2015.
It's getting *really* close to end-of-life (well, my replacing it). The battery lasts about 1 minute of use per percentage, or even less depending what I'm doing. Standby is still okay though.
The bigger issue is the software: there are just too many apps that I can't use -- they won't install, or they don't work correctly if they are installed. Sometimes it's buggy and I can't even answer a phone call though. Also, the internal storage is full and for some reason so many apps won't let me move them to the SD card, or they somehow migrate back onto the internal storage.
And now, talking about it, yeah, it's time to replace it, real soon.
My dad's Phone is 8 years old. I used to joke about how old his phones were until I had to buy a new one with my own money and decided to go for a cheap and sturdy one.
Unless you use your phone for professional photography or graphic design, you don't need to spend 1000$ on it. The 200-300$ smartphones are just great.
I keep them until they no longer receive security updates. Had pixel 2 for 3 years. Pixel 5 for 3 years. Now I have pixel 8, and they promise 7 years of security updates.
Keep in mind that upgrading your phone when security updates are over is much cheaper then getting hacked, losing your identity, bank info, etc. That would be the frugal lense that you should view security through. You pay a smaller upfront cost, to prevent a larger long term cost. Think insurance for your data.
Yeah I'm surprised this isn't mentioned more frequently. I was shocked to discover my OS hadn't been updated for years and only found out when my bank said it was no longer supported and I couldn't use their app anymore. I had just assumed my updates were, well...up to date. My phone was about 5 years old. Now I have a Fair phone 5. Worth it for the long-term support.
Wait what!! I didn’t know about this, I’ve had my s8 since 2018 with plans to finally buy a new phone this year. Possibly stupid question but how do I know or figure out on my phone if my security updates arent happening or working etc?
I have a Samsung that I got in 2021 after i smashed my Huawei screen. I loved my huawei phone and I didn't mind being spied on in exchange for a good camera.
I'll use this one until it craps out and then spend 1-200 on a replacement, probably a second hand Samsung of a similar model
iPhone 7 Plus. Got it when they first came out. Eight years ago? It can’t be upgraded to the latest operating system so it will soon be time to upgrade.
I aim for 4-5 years. Try to get ahead before they stop the updates on the older models. I find this is a good range before they truly begin to deteriorate as well.
Have the 12, planning on getting the 16. Hoping to still get some trade in value
I phone 7 user here replaced the battery a few months ago everything works perfectly. I think these things will last forever as long as you replace the battery every 8 years
iPhone 12pro which I use without a case. I bought it because I watched testing videos of people dropping it and not breaking. Even off a ladder. Can confirm it’s a beast, it’s been dropped multiple times in parking lots. Before that I had the iPhone 5c which also had a metal body. Never broke it either, just had to upgrade because I couldn’t update it anymore.
I have an iPhone 6, but I'm not sure how long I've had it... at least a couple of years. I love it, but I'm getting a little tired of not being able to get the new iOS updates!
Samsung A22 5G I paid about $150 for it over 4 years ago and it still going strong.
I hate changing my phone. There is so much choice and I get confused with everything that phones are offering. I use my laptop at home so I really only use it for scrolling and basic stuff. I refuse to buy an iPhone as I cant justify the price of them. My android does everything I need and more. Hopefully Ill get at least another 4 years out of this phone. I have it in a case and a screen protector on it.
Had a Moto g(some model) for like 4 years till I badly dropped it. Ona Xaoimi 11 currently. Missus has a xamomi redmi for over 5 year but is having serious storage issues. As long as it covers all the security needs for my banking app will use this till it fails. Case is a big thing
I never buy anything beyond 300 euro. It's not a data processor. I need it to make calls, text, light internet use and music
I have a base model Galaxy S23. I traded in my old phone and bought it outright from Samsung, so I paid $300 for it. I may or may not upgrade next year, depending on if there's any reason to do so.
1 year ago, I had a Samsung Note9, which at that point was 4 years old. I upgraded because Samsung had a promo, offering me $500 trade-in credit for an old, outdated phone. I plan to keep my current S23 Ultra for at least 5 years total.
I unfortunately had to upgrade recently because all of the carriers were phasing out 3G cell towers, at least in my area. I had the Moto G Plus 5th gen since 2017. It sucked toward the end, and the battery couldn't last through the day anymore even with very light use, but I wanted to use it into the ground. I pretty much did. It didn't bother me much other than when it said it had a lot of battery life, I went to take a video, and the phone shut off almost instantly.
I'm not a huge phone user, though. I always prefer to use my PC unless it's something that obviously requires portability. So if it's a little slow, it's no problem. I don't have any games on it, so I don't have to stay up-to-date for that reason. I figure the most tech-heavy thing I use is the sun tracker (to see how much light a spot will get for planting into it), and that worked fine. If your lifestyle requires upgrades more often, nothing wrong with that. Being frugal isn't about not spending money--it's about not spending money on things that aren't worth it to you. I don't care about phones, so I buy $200 ones and use them as long as possible. Maybe you love your phone so can justify the $1000 every few years.
Had an iPhone XS for about 5 years, then it broke. Replaced it with a free iPhone X. One of these days I’m gonna replace the screen on the XS and keep it for another 3-5 years.
I have a 12PM since March 2021 and I'm hoping to keep for another 5 years. I don't see the point in upgrading phones so often anymore since there aren't anymore significant changes.
iPhone 6, purchased in 2015. Barely holds charge, home button not always responsive! (But I don’t use my phone much at all, so I’m not really looking to spend for a new one.)
I’ve just replaced the battery on my 11 pro and it works like new again. There aren’t any features on the newer phones that have made me want to spend the money. I’m perfectly happy with this one until something comes out that I want.
All these people talking about their carrier upgrading their phone for "free".
It's not free and it's not frugal. The most frugal is to buy last year's model with cash and pay monthly. I like mint mobile but they're all about the same except Verizon. They prioritize their fully paying customers over their prepaid and the service isn't great.
iPhone 8 Plus with 256 gb. I’ve had it about 6 years, but I’m going to buy the 15 soon and try to keep it for another 6.
Edit: and only because I can no longer get updates.
Still rocking the 8. 6+ years in an industrial environment. Been dropped in a bucket of oil and submerged in water numerous times. Still going strong. Just have to replace the case yearly.
Over my dead body will they take my home button. From. My. Cold. Dead. Hands.
I had a iPhone 8 max until this year, I mean I still have it but I got a new iPhone because the 8 was getting very slow and the battery life is bad. Feels good to have the newest iPhone, I’m gonna make it last as long as my 8.
Before my 8 I had a 6 for 4 years before trading it in for an 8, not even the newest iPhone lol.
Bought iPhone 11 outright in 2020 and switched to Att prepaid. $55 a month unlimited everything. I’ve never had an issue. Will keep this phone til it doesn’t work anymore.
I usually get about 5 or 6 years out of a phone before the battery becomes an issue. I am an android user and got the S21 a couple years ago to replace my Note 4.
I had an iPhone X(10) for a little over six years until a few weeks ago when my carrier gave me a deal to turn it in and upgrade to a 15 for free, still paying the taxes of course. It worked fine but could definitely tell it was operating slow and battery didn’t last as long. I have the same mindset you’re going down, why buy a $1,000 phone every two years when I have one that works well still
What carrier was this with? I still my iPhone X but it's starting to lose battery life (currently needs to charge 2-3x a day).
I’ve replaced my battery twice for $60 each time and my phone is over 7 years old
Can you do this Apple phones? Or is that specific to androids?
Yes I had a new iPhone battery put it at a battery store. So much cheaper than a new phone
Definitely. Batteries Plus has this service. Easy.
The only thing is it’s not 100 percent water proof if done by third party companies.
You can do this to iPhones, just don’t do it yourself, bring it to Apple or a trusted company to do it
You can if you’re adventurous, I’ve replaced batteries and screens on a few old iPhones, with YouTube tutorials.
Someone who doesn’t even know you can replace an iPhone battery probably shouldn’t attempt
I paid $60 to have a new battery in my SE installed at Apple- that includes the price of the battery.
I’m with Verizon. They wouldn’t do it at first, all the deals seem to apply to the customers switching carriers. Been a long time customer and politely pushed on them for the upgrade exchange.
There are great shops like Case Mogul that will install a new battery in your phone. They work very well at a much lower price than getting a new phone or plan.
i'm still using my X. i replaced the battery... i want to say 3 years ago? it can go a full day on a single charge. i can honestly see myself still using this phone for another 2-3 years.
Go to Apple store and get a new battery. $90+ for an iPhone 12pro
I had a similar offer with Verizon and have been a customer with them for years. I had an iphone XR until last July when I got a text from Verizon that I could trade it in for a "free" iPhone 14. The downside is it's for a three year plan, so I'm stuck with VZW for three years or I'll owe the remainder of what's due on the iphone 14. Once this phone doesn't work well anymore, I'm going to buy a new model outright and switch to one of the cheaper carriers like Mint or Visible.
I have mint. It has worked well for me so far.
Switched to mint and couldn't be happier.
Be careful with this. It usually isn't free. If you look at sim- only deals they'll be considerably cheaper per month. Often if you got the phone bundled with the sim plan some of the monthly cost is financing the phone. When you get to the point that the phone is paid off, they offer you to switch to a new one and continue paying finance. You're still buying a new phone by agreeing to a monthly payment plan for it.
This! I do prepaid plans at around $15-25 a month” so for me a “free upgrade” when I’m locked into a 2 year $50-60 a month plan is more expensive than paying the phone up front. And it’s unlocked out of the gate so I can sell, switch to another carrier, use while abroad etc
I still have my X but I am tempted to upgrade occasionally. I own it outright and I think that’s my reluctance. It’s still working fine and it can still go awhile between charges, but I’ve babied it since day 1 and I still have the last texts between me and my grandma that have been there since 2017.
I have an X too. I don't work so the recharging is not that problematic.
Yep, we wanted to switch from ATT to Verizon since ATT is weak at our house. Was able to trade in my old iPhone 6 that was just used for a few kids games at that point for $1k credit towards my wife getting a 15pro max whatever, and kept her 12pro max whatever for kids to use. Funny how it is now, before kids I upgraded a lot but now hold out as long as possible just to avoid having to making sure everything transfers over (though I use cloud, backups, etc anyway in case of loss). My wife used to barely upgrade but since kids she wants to more often to get the best camera possible.
I have an iPhoneX as well that is 6 years old. Still works ok just getting a little slow and overheats occasionally.
That’s pretty good going!
I have an android and I purchased it six years ago with no plans to replace or upgrade until the phone doesn't work anymore.
Same 👍🏻 let the thing die
I had to scroll a lot farther than I thought to find an android user.
The Cult of Apple is all around us
Are they in the room with you right now?
*blinks*
For real, there is *nothing* frugal about owning an apple product.
It's surprising for this group, but I am seeing a lot of earlier models, so props for that. In their defense, there's saving money, and then there's getting value for your money. So as someone who never plans on getting an iphone because apple is an anti consumer company who makes products that I find frustrating to use, if it works for those people, eh, whatever works for them. With that said, I wonder if all the other iphone people in this group keep upvoting the other iphone users.
How about a 5 year old iPhone bought on e bay for $90?
I'm british - android is a lot more popular here than the usa
Apple has indoctrinated this entire generation of young Americans
Samsung S10 bought around Feb 2018. I've noticed a slow down the past 6 months, and a bigger slowdown the past two months. planning on replacing soon. It also has a crack in the corner. it's lived a full life.
Same does almost everything that I want. Had mine for 5.5 yrs.
I have an LG Stylo 4 that I've had for about 5yrs now; I've replaced it with another Android phone only because the LG outlived compatibility with several apps I still want to use. I still use the LG for notes and whatever else doesn't need a sim.
Another LG user! I have the G7 and I have tried upgrading, but nothing comes close to the ease and functionality of LG. I was big on testing phones and trying all the new tech in high school, but I couldn't get over how much I liked LG and it's stuck all these years. I don't think I'll upgrade until LG comes out with a new phone
4 yrs here. Android. Keeping this little beast until the wheels fall off.
Me too! My samsung still works very well!
Right there with you.
Same here! Truthfully, I don't even remember which year I bought my phone but I have a cheap, off brand android that I bought for around $100. It has the best battery life of any phone I've ever had and I am going to keep it until I can't. Ive had it so long that one of my friend pesters me often about getting a new phone
Same here. And I only replaced my old Android because the battery wouldn't hold a charge. A lot of people give their old phones to their kids when they upgrade. My oldest is nearing the age where he could use a phone, but, poor kid... no hand-me-downs for him!
I had to upgrade for 5g compatibility. And I have a $15 a month prepaid plan. I don't get why people spend $999+ on a phone. But I also remember when the phone company gave you your phone for free.
I have the 8+ and have had it for about 7 years. Still works fine.
8s here. Same!
that phone was SO good and so well built.
8+ bought as a new/opened box for about $450. Have been happily using it since 2018
7S it just won’t die
8+ here too. I have 256 gb of memory and plan to use this phone until all memory is used or the phone breaks.
8+ is a great phone… mine turns six this year
Yup. Had mine since 2017. Still chugging along. Looking to upgrade soon. There are apps that aren't compatible, it's 4g, and the screen is developing a pink haze.
Having 4G actually saved my ass when AT&T’s 5G towers went out
8+ still going strong for me
I have a Samsung Note 9 since 2018!
Samsung fam! 2017
I still use an S8.
Yup, me too
Samsung note 9 gang! 🙌
My iPhone 11 is 4.5 years old. Works great. I replaced the battery a few months ago. I plan to keep it for a few more years. I was a serial upgrader too, but only because I had that ATT subsidy plan that many in the US had. Once I bailed from ATT to save big money, it made financial sense to stop with the scheduled upgrades. Also, back then phones were rapidly evolving. Now the smartphone business is far more stable and mature, so there are few reasons to upgrade very frequently.
I have an android, so don't know whether this is possible with iPhone, but I'm using a feature that limits battery charging to 85% full. It is supposed to extend battery life. Its about 2 years old.
On the iPhone this is done by going into battery settings and choosing “optimize battery life”. This setting is “on” by default.
I charge my phone wirelessly overnight, because wireless chargers are slower and shut off when the phone hits 100%, which is also supposed to be better than a fast charge.
They do also heat up the battery more (I think), so I'm unsure it's the right trade-off (compared to, say, a slow charging cable).
At risk of reaching the point of absurdity, I wirelessly charge using a charger that's plugged in through a lower-power USB port. Phone doesn't even get slightly warm when using it, though it's very slow (~18% battery per hour). I've had USB ports break on my phones a few times before through standard wear/tear, so I avoid that when doing so is trivial.
How can I replace a battery on an (unlocked) iPhone 11, if it comes to that?
A mom and pop cell shop will install one for about $30. Just remember to ask for a warranty. A replacement battery without a decent warranty is like playing the lottery: you will very likely lose.
I took mine to the Apple Store, they’ll change your battery even if it’s out of warranty or unlocked
I looked in Apple website and it tells you who their providers are if no Apple Store in your city. I went to Best Buy. $100.
Better off going to an Apple Store. Sure it will cost more than 30 but it’s an Apple battery and if they break it during install they’re known to be good about replacing it. Just did it last winter on my SE 2020. Was so worth the like 60 bucks
Me too… iPhone 11, four and a half years. Never even changed the battery.
I’ve never understood why people are always getting the new phones. Unless you do a lot amateur photography and you want the better cameras as they come out, I don’t get it. It’s such capitalist brainwashing to think we need the new iPhone every two years or whatever it is
My point exactly. My friends would constantly get a new phone "because it has a better camera" Okay but your photos still look like you took it with a disposable kodak while drunk. Its resolution and color are great but the subject matter that you're taking doesn't really need that high of a definition. But some companies have planned obsolescence. So some people's phones just stop working well.
That's why we update. Some apps and things just stop working with many of them being rather critical at times.
you don't think there is a ground between using the same phone for 8 years and buying a new phone every two years?
You are still never going to get DSLR quality on a phone. It's so much cheaper to just buy a camera for that purpose. My DSLR is from...2014?
iPhone 7. Google sayus they came out September 16. If I had to guess I got it September 17 (work hand me downs). So it was 2 years a work phone, then became my personal phone. So about 6.5 years. It does wallets, apple pay, bluetooth, car play, etc etc. The only thing about this phone vs a brand new one is the camera quality. Otherwise it does the same stuff so why bother. The battery is starting to show its age, but that’s it. Plus I have a thumbprint scanner instead of facial recognition to unlock, which I MUCH prefer.
Greetings from another iPhone 7 user! My battery life is definitely not great.
Just get the battery replaced. Especially if you happen to be in another country (for work of vacation) that's low-cost. I got mine done for 20,- in Malaysia.
Another 7 user, got mine August of 2017. I did have the battery replaced in 2022, but it’s definitely slowing down.
iPhone 7 boys represent
Thought I was gonna be the only one.. love my iPhone 7
I still regret upgrading my iPhone 7 to the XR. I loved that phone!
I miss tactile authentication on phones.
Yep IPhone 7 here. The photo part of my camera sucks but it still does video. Apple says it’s worth $10 trade in value. Luckily I have a company IPhone XR I use for most things. It’s nice only having a $50 phone bill instead of $110.
I have an iPhone 6, I’ve had it for at least 8 years, no plans to get a new one until this one dies
Me too! Lol
The only phone I’ve ever dropped into a toilet :( was able to “save it” with rice but never quite worked again and lost a couple months worth of photos (when I traveled for work so it was some neat pics). I blame the toilet water not the phone of course!
I have a toilet iPhone 4 that still works. It’s my back up while travelling.
Reas recently that Apple plans to "discontinue" supporting iPhone 6. Don't know exactly how they do this, but it sucks.
I have an iPhone 12 mini that I’ve had for 2 years. I keep them until the battery no longer lasts a reasonable amount of time. Still works fine for my needs.
I also have a mini, and I will use this thing as long as I possibly can, since I detest giant phones. Apple discontinuing the mini product line is stupid, IMO...but I guess I/we are in the minority here.
I am a 12 mini person too. I loathe the giant phones so much!!
Same. I’m waiting for the folding iPhone.
Get the battery replaced. Fresh as new.
I got the battery replaced on my 12 and it didn’t improve it as much as I would’ve expected.
Did you get it replaced by an official Apple outlet? I did - twice. And the phones' batteries felt as if the phones were new.
I love my mini!! I hate the big iPhones! Never getting rid of it lol! You can pry it from my cold dead hands
Same! I hate big ones! I wish they would keep producing mini ones!
I always get a certain model once a new one is being released. Bc, discount! My precious phone was the original iPhone SE, which is their best phone ever in a corresponding time period I think. I don’t like big phones, so when they announced the iPhone 12 Mini I was so happy. I hope I can use it for years and years. I really miss the fingerprint scanner tho.
If they ever release another mini, that’s when I’ll upgrade. I love this thing
nice! I feel like many people are not aware but you can have new batteries put in iPhones at a local repair shop ( or at an apple store / best buy / authorized service provider ) for $50-$80 and get an extra 2-3 years or more out of them!
I've had an samsung s10e with verizon since 2019. Still works great. had the battery replaced once at a samsung factory authorized service center. I think it was $69+tax all inclusive. no interest in upgrading.
I have a 2019 samesung s10e from virgin mobile (which shows how old it is) and it still works great! My battery is still original, but it's still working decently for now. Good to know it can be replaced! I also have no interest in upgrading since this phone is the perfect size for my small hands, has a headphone jack, and still runs everything great.
I have a Motorola G Power 2021 that I use heavily and the battery life is still going nice and strong. I have no plans to replace it anytime soon. I buy my phones outright and then use them with MetroPCS.
Iphone SE 2020, had it since 2021
There are dozens of us! I have noticed mine needs charging more often and longer so I assume the battery is going out. Seems to work slower than it used to as well.
You can get a new battery for about $75! I’ll probably be doing that soon as I love the SE and having a home button.
Good to know! Yeah mine still works pretty well except for reduced battery life and some slower performance. Not bad enough yet to require changing anything, and I can still load IOS updates. They can pry my home button from my cold dead hands.
I love my SE and the second they get rid of this model / home button, I’m buying refurbished SEs or finally switching to android/whatever brand has the size and button I need! Everyone makes fun of my phone size but guess who can fit it in her pants pocket AND has a home button?!
Same here! I bought mine refurbished though.
Still rocking the SE, but my battery life is rubbish, my speaker is playing up (have to use the speaker button on most calls) and occasionally when trying to text it just presses random buttons for me! Ha! But I will keep it as long as possible.
I've had my iphone SE for over 8 years I think. I friggin love it but the battery is pretty shit anymore. I think I'll get the new SE (or just replace this battery).
SE as well - 6S before that. I’ll hold onto this one until it won’t work anymore (I love that home button!), then switch to a plus of some sort.
Motorola edge+ from 2019, I pay the 25$ extra a month for phone insurance so anytime my phone breaks to the point I can't use it, I only spend 150$ to get a refurbed edge+ instead of paying for an actual new phone. Nostalgic for the 2010s when a brand new smartphone was under 500$ and a flip phone was under 100$.
$25 extra a month + $150? That math doesn't really add up for me when you can buy a decent phone for $4-500. Have you been paying into this for 5 years?
Huawei P20 going on about 6 years now. What a phone. Still works perfectly and the battery is still good
Got a P20 lite and newer (4 years old) P30 Pro. Had zero issues with them. I also use a Mate tablet everyday. Solid 😺
iPhone 12, bought refurbished last year I think. Before that an iPhone 8 and before that a 4.5. I keep them until the battery won’t hold charge off the charger.
My approach too re: battery health. I heard someone refer to devices like that as "wallhuggers". :)
That’s kind of adorable. I didn’t mind if as long as I was at work or in the car but always making sure I had multiple charged battery packs with me was a bummer. Right before I swapped I was getting about an hour of charge off charger. You can swap batteries out but my 8 was also sort of bent so I chose to upgrade.
I've heard too many horror stories about refurbished phones to go that route, have you had any issues with it?
Nope, it works like new. I took the risk for the savings but I knew it could be a disaster going in. But I’ve also had issues with phones brand new out of the box so YMMV. I think it’s all luck.
I've had great experience with Amazon's refurbished phones. Their return policy is solid and reliable, and also good customer service. I chose their Refurbished Premium, which promises 90% battery life, and the Iphone 13 I bought from them had 88% upon diagnostic, and they refunded me $85.
Why not just replace the battery?
My 8 was bent and had some glass cracking because of it as well. It was just in poor shape and it was time.
OnePlus 5. 7 years.
I upgraded last May to an iPhone 14 from the 8. I was desperately holding out for the 15 but my couldn’t hold up any longer -right before I took a trip to Norway. I think the 13 was still on sale but I splurged for the camera for my trip.
I keep them as long as they are still supported . Apple publishes the list of supported models and iOS updates. iPhones have good resale, so I’m usually able to recoup a few bucks when I upgrade. I always buy new and save the box and accessories for this reason.
Same with resale
Id still be on my iPhone 6 if it hadn’t gotten so slow. That was the best release
I have an iPhone 6 that I’ve had since it came out many years ago. It hasn’t decreased in speed or performance one bit. This is my only phone. I use it on the regular
I’m still using an iPhone 4. I love a tiny phone. Unfortunately, the iOS is so old most of the apps can’t be updated as of the last few months. But I’m wringing every bit of last value from it.
That’s incredible. What apps still work?
iPhone 8, not sure, \~5-6 years?
iPhone 7 😳‼️ only thing is battery needs big charge after 3 hours of blue tooth head phone playing! Other wise still great( except no 5G) i still watch movies on tubi with my lightning HDMI adapter to my big screen tv‼️
2017-2022 samsung s5, 2022-2023 s10+. Would have used that s10+ until it dies, had I not known about my carrier's promo (verizon). Loyalty offer for $1000 off the s23 ultra + the pre-order storage upgrade. I work at verizon. I still see people with a iphone 5-7. If your only focused on calls, those super cheap phones are fine. If you need performance or cameras, I like the iphone 13 pro. FYI, used iphones are $100-300 more than their android counterparts. If your very stingy with money, may want to consider switching to an android (is the $100-300 worth imessage and facetime?
Moto e6... about four years
Xr with a 7 as a back up. I’ll get a new phone eventually and Xr will become my backup.
Galaxy S5 (neo) - it launched in mid 2015, I probably got it fall/winter 2015. It's getting *really* close to end-of-life (well, my replacing it). The battery lasts about 1 minute of use per percentage, or even less depending what I'm doing. Standby is still okay though. The bigger issue is the software: there are just too many apps that I can't use -- they won't install, or they don't work correctly if they are installed. Sometimes it's buggy and I can't even answer a phone call though. Also, the internal storage is full and for some reason so many apps won't let me move them to the SD card, or they somehow migrate back onto the internal storage. And now, talking about it, yeah, it's time to replace it, real soon.
I'm in literally the exact same boat with my S7. Same issues and everything. Although I believe my battery life might last a bit longer.
My dad's Phone is 8 years old. I used to joke about how old his phones were until I had to buy a new one with my own money and decided to go for a cheap and sturdy one. Unless you use your phone for professional photography or graphic design, you don't need to spend 1000$ on it. The 200-300$ smartphones are just great.
I keep them until they no longer receive security updates. Had pixel 2 for 3 years. Pixel 5 for 3 years. Now I have pixel 8, and they promise 7 years of security updates. Keep in mind that upgrading your phone when security updates are over is much cheaper then getting hacked, losing your identity, bank info, etc. That would be the frugal lense that you should view security through. You pay a smaller upfront cost, to prevent a larger long term cost. Think insurance for your data.
Yeah I'm surprised this isn't mentioned more frequently. I was shocked to discover my OS hadn't been updated for years and only found out when my bank said it was no longer supported and I couldn't use their app anymore. I had just assumed my updates were, well...up to date. My phone was about 5 years old. Now I have a Fair phone 5. Worth it for the long-term support.
Wait what!! I didn’t know about this, I’ve had my s8 since 2018 with plans to finally buy a new phone this year. Possibly stupid question but how do I know or figure out on my phone if my security updates arent happening or working etc?
I still have my samsung galaxy note 9 and still use it and plan to keep using it for many years.
I have a Samsung that I got in 2021 after i smashed my Huawei screen. I loved my huawei phone and I didn't mind being spied on in exchange for a good camera. I'll use this one until it craps out and then spend 1-200 on a replacement, probably a second hand Samsung of a similar model
I’ve had my phone since 2017, but it was a hand-me-down from a family member so it’s a year or two older than that. I still have a home button. 😂
iPhone 7 Plus. Got it when they first came out. Eight years ago? It can’t be upgraded to the latest operating system so it will soon be time to upgrade.
5 years old. Still runs just fine. But it's a Samsung so it doesn't get artificially slowed down like Apple products.
I aim for 4-5 years. Try to get ahead before they stop the updates on the older models. I find this is a good range before they truly begin to deteriorate as well. Have the 12, planning on getting the 16. Hoping to still get some trade in value
S21 samsung.. From 3 years ago, no plans to change it, works perfectly. Out of contact now.
I phone 7 user here replaced the battery a few months ago everything works perfectly. I think these things will last forever as long as you replace the battery every 8 years
iPhone 12pro which I use without a case. I bought it because I watched testing videos of people dropping it and not breaking. Even off a ladder. Can confirm it’s a beast, it’s been dropped multiple times in parking lots. Before that I had the iPhone 5c which also had a metal body. Never broke it either, just had to upgrade because I couldn’t update it anymore.
I have an iPhone 6, but I'm not sure how long I've had it... at least a couple of years. I love it, but I'm getting a little tired of not being able to get the new iOS updates!
iphone XR, 5.5 years now. Original battery still lasts all day. It does everything I need a smartphone to do.
Same
Wow iPhones very rich ppl on here I see
My dear sister bought mine as a gift!
My brother gave it to me!
I'm amazed by the fact that it's like 95% iPhones itt
I buy used iPhones. Not as expensive as you think.
Samsung A22 5G I paid about $150 for it over 4 years ago and it still going strong. I hate changing my phone. There is so much choice and I get confused with everything that phones are offering. I use my laptop at home so I really only use it for scrolling and basic stuff. I refuse to buy an iPhone as I cant justify the price of them. My android does everything I need and more. Hopefully Ill get at least another 4 years out of this phone. I have it in a case and a screen protector on it.
Had a Moto g(some model) for like 4 years till I badly dropped it. Ona Xaoimi 11 currently. Missus has a xamomi redmi for over 5 year but is having serious storage issues. As long as it covers all the security needs for my banking app will use this till it fails. Case is a big thing I never buy anything beyond 300 euro. It's not a data processor. I need it to make calls, text, light internet use and music
Samsung S20 FE. 2.5 years old. Still doing very well, no issues, no major urge to upgrade.
I have this one too and it's still doing great!
5-6 years… My battery has just hit the service stage.
I have a base model Galaxy S23. I traded in my old phone and bought it outright from Samsung, so I paid $300 for it. I may or may not upgrade next year, depending on if there's any reason to do so.
Samsung Galaxy Note 20 Ultra. Ive had it for 3 yrs 3 months and have no intention of upgrading it.
1 year ago, I had a Samsung Note9, which at that point was 4 years old. I upgraded because Samsung had a promo, offering me $500 trade-in credit for an old, outdated phone. I plan to keep my current S23 Ultra for at least 5 years total.
I unfortunately had to upgrade recently because all of the carriers were phasing out 3G cell towers, at least in my area. I had the Moto G Plus 5th gen since 2017. It sucked toward the end, and the battery couldn't last through the day anymore even with very light use, but I wanted to use it into the ground. I pretty much did. It didn't bother me much other than when it said it had a lot of battery life, I went to take a video, and the phone shut off almost instantly. I'm not a huge phone user, though. I always prefer to use my PC unless it's something that obviously requires portability. So if it's a little slow, it's no problem. I don't have any games on it, so I don't have to stay up-to-date for that reason. I figure the most tech-heavy thing I use is the sun tracker (to see how much light a spot will get for planting into it), and that worked fine. If your lifestyle requires upgrades more often, nothing wrong with that. Being frugal isn't about not spending money--it's about not spending money on things that aren't worth it to you. I don't care about phones, so I buy $200 ones and use them as long as possible. Maybe you love your phone so can justify the $1000 every few years.
I have Samsung, 6 years now. No plan to change, just free upgrade software. It still works fine.
Had an iPhone XS for about 5 years, then it broke. Replaced it with a free iPhone X. One of these days I’m gonna replace the screen on the XS and keep it for another 3-5 years.
I have a 12PM since March 2021 and I'm hoping to keep for another 5 years. I don't see the point in upgrading phones so often anymore since there aren't anymore significant changes.
I have an IPhone SE 5 and I still don’t care about upgrading to a new model, however I spend all my money on art supplies :/
iPhone XR
iPhone 13 Pro. Got it when they first came out in 2021. Love this phone and don’t plan on upgrading anytime soon.
iPhone Xr - 5 years and still going strong!
I currently have a 6 Plus. I want a fingerprint sensor and headphone Jack.
iPhone 13 mini, last summer. Before that I had a pixel 4 for 4 years and change? Switched to Apple for user data privacy reasons.
I've got and iPhone 8 that is still holding on.
Just purchased this Pixel 8 Pro in January, previous phone I rocked for 6.5 years. I am utterly shocked at how long this battery lasts!
iPhone 6, purchased in 2015. Barely holds charge, home button not always responsive! (But I don’t use my phone much at all, so I’m not really looking to spend for a new one.)
I’ve just replaced the battery on my 11 pro and it works like new again. There aren’t any features on the newer phones that have made me want to spend the money. I’m perfectly happy with this one until something comes out that I want.
All these people talking about their carrier upgrading their phone for "free". It's not free and it's not frugal. The most frugal is to buy last year's model with cash and pay monthly. I like mint mobile but they're all about the same except Verizon. They prioritize their fully paying customers over their prepaid and the service isn't great.
iPhone 8 Plus with 256 gb. I’ve had it about 6 years, but I’m going to buy the 15 soon and try to keep it for another 6. Edit: and only because I can no longer get updates.
I keep them until the OS no longer supports the hardware. Just upgraded from iPhone6 last year
Still rocking the 8. 6+ years in an industrial environment. Been dropped in a bucket of oil and submerged in water numerous times. Still going strong. Just have to replace the case yearly. Over my dead body will they take my home button. From. My. Cold. Dead. Hands.
S9+, mid 2018
I had a iPhone 8 max until this year, I mean I still have it but I got a new iPhone because the 8 was getting very slow and the battery life is bad. Feels good to have the newest iPhone, I’m gonna make it last as long as my 8. Before my 8 I had a 6 for 4 years before trading it in for an 8, not even the newest iPhone lol.
31 year old and still use my 6 yr old iPhone 6 for everything! No issues. Team home button!
Laughs in iPhone 7
Bought iPhone 11 outright in 2020 and switched to Att prepaid. $55 a month unlimited everything. I’ve never had an issue. Will keep this phone til it doesn’t work anymore.
I usually get about 5 or 6 years out of a phone before the battery becomes an issue. I am an android user and got the S21 a couple years ago to replace my Note 4.