Is it time for me to upgrade to a new iPhone?

Is it time for me to upgrade to a new iPhone?

See which option is the best for you - especially if you don't care about AI

by Kurt Knutsson

The highly anticipated iPhone 16 lineup is finally here. This new release includes the iPhone 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, and 16 Pro Max, each boasting exciting features such as the new A18 chip, a “Capture” button for quick photos and videos, and a customizable Action button. With these advancements, Apple aims to enhance user experience and performance across its devices.

If having access to the latest Apple AI later when it rolls out, you’ll need to have the latest iPhone 16 or iPhone 15 Pro on hand.  It’s a great way for Apple to generate more sales during sluggish demand.  If AI is important to you – and for me it is – I recommend you jump to the latest and greatest.  The best way to do that is through wireless carrier incentives that I address in another feature.

AI simply doesn’t matter to everyone.  So spending more for that privilege may not make sense even though the latest iPhone 16 line is upon us.

With all of that, we received this question from Erhardt of Washinton, DC. Here’s what he had to say:

I am in very big need of getting an iPhone. Please know, that I am 84 years old and I have been afraid to get one. However, you may be able to help me on what I should purchase.

First off, don’t be afraid of getting an iPhone – they’re designed to be user-friendly, even for those new to smartphones. At 84, you might appreciate some of the accessibility features iPhones offer.

 

 

Tips to help you decide

Basic use: If you mainly want to make calls, send messages, and maybe check email, you don’t need the latest iPhone 16. An older model like the iPhone SE (Third Generation) or iPhone 13 would work great and cost less.

Larger screen: If you’d prefer a bigger display for easier reading, the iPhone 15 Plus or even the standard iPhone 15 offer larger screens without the premium price of the Pro models.

Budget-friendly options: The iPhone SE (Third Generation) is the most affordable and compact, with a home button for familiarity. The iPhone 14 or 15 series are still excellent and more budget-friendly than the 16.

 

Ease of use features

Apple has always prioritized making their devices accessible and easy to use for everyone, regardless of age or tech-savviness. The iPhone is equipped with several user-friendly features:

Accessibility settings: iPhones come with a suite of built-in accessibility features, such as larger text options, voice control, and hearing aid compatibility. These settings can be easily customized to suit individual needs, ensuring that everyone can use their device comfortably.

Siri: Apple’s voice assistant, Siri, can help you with a wide range of tasks, from making calls and sending messages to setting reminders and searching the web. Simply ask Siri, and it will assist you, making your iPhone experience more convenient and hands-free.

Guided access: This feature allows you to limit your device to a single app and control which features are available, making it easier to focus on one task at a time.

Magnifier: Turn your iPhone into a digital magnifying glass, making it easier to read small text or see details up close.

So, now that you know about the user-friendly features and accessibility options, let’s explore the various iPhones available to find the perfect fit for your needs. Whether you prioritize a larger screen, a budget-friendly option, or the latest technology, there’s an iPhone model that’s just right for you.

 

Do phone plans offer free iPhone 16s?

As you decide, consider that some phone plans offer the iPhone 16 for free if you commit to a 2 year plan with them with a trade in.

Get iPhone 16 Pro on Verizon with trade-in & select Unlimited plan
GET IPHONE 16 PRO ON VERIZON
Expires on:

Get iPhone 16 Pro on us with trade-in & select Unlimited plan.  Starts Friday, September 13, 2024. Ends September 30, 2024.

More Less

 

 

Deals for earlier iPhones

 

iPhone 15

1-IPHONE 15

Credit: Apple

The iPhone 15 is an excellent product if you’re looking for a newer device. Released in 2023, it has a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display and an A16 Bionic chip with a 5-core GPU. It also comes with an advanced dual camera system that can give you super high-resolution photos. Plus, you’ll get the Emergency SOS feature and up to 26 hours of video playback. At the time of publishing, this product had over 60 reviews on Amazon, with 67% giving it 5 stars.

 

 

iPhone SE (3rd generation)

4-iphone SE

Credit: Apple

If you’re looking for a smaller smartphone that’s easier to carry, the iPhone SE is an excellent option. This one has a 4.7-inch retina display and an advanced single-camera system. With the 12 MP wide camera, you can still use portrait mode for your photos. It also has a 7 MP FaceTime camera. Plus, it runs on an A15 Bionic chip for lightning-fast performance and has a durable design with IP67 water resistance. At the time of publishing, this product had over 1,700 global reviews on Amazon, with 69% giving it 5 stars.

 

 

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iPhone 13 

3-IPHONE 13

Credit: Apple

If you’d rather not get a new iPhone model and just want something practical and functional, the iPhone 13 is an excellent choice. It has the same 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display that the iPhone 15 has. A rear and front 12 MP camera for brilliant photos. It works with a 3240mAh battery and runs on an A15 Bionic chip for faster performance. At the time of publishing, this product had over 11,000 global reviews on Amazon, with 65% giving it 5 stars.

 

 

iPhone 15 Plus

4-IPHONE 15 PLUS

Credit: Apple

The iPhone 15 Pro is a bit more advanced. This one has a 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR display and is made of aluminum with a color-infused glass back. This one operates on an A16 Bionic chip with a 5-core GPU and has an even more advanced dual-camera system. The camera is a 48 MP Ultra-wide camera and has 4X the optical zoom range. At the time of publishing, this product had over 300 global reviews on Amazon, with 84% giving it 5 stars.

 

 

GOOGLE’S AI POWER PLAY: IS APPLE FEELING THE HEAT?

 

 

iPhone 15 Pro

5-IPHONE 15 PRO

Credit: Apple

The most advanced option in this list is the iPhone 15 Pro. This smartphone runs on an A17 Pro chip with a 6-core GPU. It can take super high-resolution photos with a 48 MP main camera and 10x the optical zoom range. You’ll get Emergency SOS with crash detection and roadside assistance and up to 29 hours of video playback. At the time of publishing, this product had over 300 global reviews on Amazon, with 70% giving it 5 stars.

 

 

iPhone Pro Max 

Image of iPhone 15 Pro Max

Credit: Apple

 

The Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max boasts a 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR display with ProMotion technology, offering an adaptive refresh rate up to 120Hz for smoother visuals. The phone is powered by the new A17 Pro chip, ensuring top-tier performance and efficiency. One of the standout features is the 48MP main camera with advanced sensor-shift optical image stabilization, complemented by a 12MP ultra-wide and a new 5x telephoto lens. This setup provides exceptional photo and video quality, making it ideal for photography enthusiasts. The iPhone 15 Pro Max also introduces a titanium frame, making it lighter and more durable than its predecessors. At the time of publishing, this product had 61% giving it 5 stars.

 

 

MORE: BEST AFFORDABLE CELL PHONE PLANS

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Kurt’s key takeaways

Whether you want the latest model or something more modest and simple, there are plenty of excellent iPhone options for you to choose from. Take a look at all the models above and compare their features with what your needs are.

Comment below and let us know which option you feel is best for you. We’d love to hear from you.

FOR MORE OF MY TIPS, SUBSCRIBE TO MY FREE CYBERGUY REPORT NEWSLETTER HERE.

 

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