Apple's iPhones last longer in users' hands, with many years waiting before an upgrade. Meanwhile, Android users are switching their phones more frequently.
iPhone users delay upgrades
A growing number of iPhone users choose to keep their devices for extended periods. Based on CIRP's findings, about one-third of iPhone owners who purchased a new phone in the past year had kept their previous phone for at least three years.
The iPhone's longevity
When comparing the latest 2024 data on iPhone and Android users' smartphone retention patterns with earlier figures from 2023, it's clear that the trend of iPhone owners holding onto their devices longer continues to strengthen.
In 2023, about 29% of iPhone users kept their devices for three or more years, while 21% of Android users did the same. In 2024, the gap widened slightly, with one-third of iPhone users keeping their phones for three years or more.
Apple's strategy in recent years has focused on refining its devices rather than introducing groundbreaking new features annually. The shift has resulted in a product line that remains functional and relevant for longer, reducing the urgency for many users to upgrade.
Additionally, with Apple's shift toward installment-based financing, consumers feel less pressure to upgrade prematurely since payments are spread over a more extended period, making waiting before switching phones more attractive.
Previous smartphone age (for the year ending June 2024). Source: CIRP
On an emotional level, iPhone owners often develop a deep attachment to their devices. Apple has successfully fostered a loyal customer base that strongly identifies with its brand, creating a sense of belonging and loyalty among its users.
For many users, an iPhone is more than just a phone -- it's part of a broader ecosystem that includes services like iCloud, Apple Music, and the App Store. The attachment creates a sense of continuity, making it harder for users to part with their devices, even after several years.
Android users upgrade more frequently
In contrast, Android users tend to replace their phones more frequently. Only 21% of Android owners reported keeping their phone for three or more years, a stark difference from iPhone users.
The CIRP report indicates that 57% of retired Android phones are less than two years old, compared to just one-third of iPhone users who retire their devices within that period.
There are several reasons for the disparity. One of the most prominent is the diversity of Android devices on the market.
Android phones are produced by various manufacturers, offering users a broader selection of devices and features. As a result, Android users are more likely to upgrade their phones as new features and models become available from different manufacturers.
Furthermore, Android phones are often more affordable than iPhones, making it easier for users to justify upgrading to a newer model more frequently. Many Android phones fall into the mid-range or budget categories, where lower prices and shorter lifespans encourage faster turnover.
As a result, Android users may feel less financially and emotionally invested in their devices, unlike iPhone users, who tend to pay more upfront for their phones.