According to a report by Consumer Intelligence Research Partners (CIRP), iPhone users are opting to upgrade their devices more frequently than in previous years.
Research data shows that 36% of iPhone buyers by the end of 2024 had owned their previous devices for two years or less, an increase from 31% in the prior year.
Historically, iPhone users have extended the lifespan of their devices, with the average holding period increasing steadily since 2014. The COVID-19 pandemic further contributed to prolonged upgrade intervals due to economic uncertainties and supply chain disruptions.
Several factors may be influencing this acceleration in upgrade frequency. Carriers continue to offer compelling deals and incentives, encouraging users to replace their devices around the two-year mark, even amidst longer installment plans. Additionally, the introduction of new features in recent iPhone models may be enticing users to upgrade sooner.
Despite this uptick in upgrade rates, Apple’s overall iPhone sales experienced a slight decline. Reports indicate that global iPhone sales fell by 2% in 2024 compared to the previous year, with the company’s market share decreasing from 19% to 18%.
The current trend suggests that the most dedicated iPhone users are driving the recent increase in upgrade rates, while those with older devices remain hesitant.
Analysts predict that as these long-term users encounter performance issues or become attracted by new features and promotions, they will eventually upgrade, potentially leading to longer average device lifespans in the future.
Looking ahead, industry experts anticipate a resurgence in iPhone sales. Analyst Dan Ives forecasts a record 240 million iPhones sold in fiscal 2025, attributing this growth to the adoption of artificial intelligence features and a strong market in China.
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Still no fold iPhone… It's tough with such a small screen.
That's because battery life and performance has never suffered more than recently especially with the Pro/Max series plus everyone is hyped up about AI. I'm done with Apple since Cook showed his true colors and kissed Trump's ring and is enjoying the smell of Trump's methane.
FWIW. Costco has some decent Android phones at a fraction of the price of an iPhone.