Buying a used iPhone makes more sense than ever amid looming price hikes and longer software support

At a glance:

• Apple's iOS 27 updates will extend software support for older iPhones, including the iPhone 11, boosting their longevity.
• Rising component costs and supply chain pressures may drive up prices for new iPhones, particularly Pro models, in late 2025.
• Refurbished smartphone sales on platforms like Back Market are surging as consumers seek cost-effective alternatives to premium pricing.

Why used iPhones are gaining traction

The decision to buy a used iPhone has traditionally been driven by cost savings and environmental benefits, but recent developments have made the choice even more compelling. Apple's upcoming iOS 27 update, announced at WWDC in June, introduces improvements to the CPU scheduler that will enhance performance on older devices, including the iPhone 11. This means that even a used iPhone purchased in 2023 could remain functional and up-to-date well into 2026, reducing concerns about obsolescence. Kyle Wiens, CEO of iFixit, emphasizes that "phones from the last few years are really good," suggesting that the performance gap between older and newer models is narrowing.

Beyond software longevity, maintenance costs for older iPhones are significantly lower. Apple charges $119 for a new battery in the latest iPhone 17, while an iPhone 13 battery replacement is $30 cheaper. Wiens notes that replacing a battery every six months on a used device can be a cost-effective strategy for users who don't need cutting-edge features. This economic advantage is particularly relevant as supply chain disruptions and memory shortages—exacerbated by AI data center demand—threaten to increase production costs across the tech industry.

Apple's pricing strategy under pressure

Outgoing Apple CEO Tim Cook recently acknowledged that price increases for the company's products would soon be "unavoidable," citing supply chain challenges and geopolitical tensions as key factors. The memory shortage, driven by AI infrastructure investments, has strained component availability, affecting everything from consumer electronics to gaming hardware. While Apple has historically absorbed these costs, analysts like Jitesh Ubrani of IDC predict that upcoming hardware releases, particularly Pro models, will bear the brunt of these price hikes. The company's recent launch of the $599 MacBook Neo in March demonstrates its attempt to balance affordability with rising expenses, but premium devices like the rumored folding iPhone may see steeper price tags.

The timing of these changes aligns with broader market volatility, including the lingering effects of Trump-era tariffs and Middle East conflicts. Cook's statement has already influenced consumer behavior, with Back Market reporting a surge in refurbished smartphone sales following his comments. CEO Thibaud Hug de Larauze notes that buyers are increasingly hesitant to pay $2,000 for new flagship devices, signaling a shift toward sustainable consumption. However, the used market isn't entirely insulated from economic pressures; Counterpoint Research indicates that refurbished smartphone growth in 2025 has been slower than anticipated, with price increases expected to trickle down within three to six months.

The environmental and economic case for holding on

For many users, the trade-offs of buying used—such as slightly reduced camera quality or delayed access to AI features—are outweighed by financial and environmental benefits. The average smartphone replacement cycle is 2.5 years, but extending device lifespans is becoming a cultural trend. Refurbished electronics platforms like Back Market have capitalized on this shift, offering certified devices at a fraction of the cost of new models. Wiens highlights that the value of existing electronics has risen, much like the stock market, making older devices more attractive in an inflationary climate.

Apple's strategy to prolong software support for older hardware also reduces the urgency to upgrade. By optimizing iOS 27 for efficiency, the company is indirectly encouraging users to retain devices longer, which could mitigate the impact of future price hikes. However, this approach may not fully offset the rising costs of new hardware, especially as Apple prepares to unveil its next-generation products. For now, the used iPhone market remains a pragmatic choice for budget-conscious consumers, offering a blend of functionality, sustainability, and economic resilience in an uncertain landscape.