As of 2024, the iPhone 6s is no longer a practical option for most users. Apple ended iOS support for the iPhone 6s in August 2022, with iOS 15.6.1 being its final version. While Apple still provides security updates for the device, with the last update in July 2024, the lack of iOS updates means the iPhone 6s will not receive new features, performance enhancements, or compatibility with modern apps and services.
Software and Security Support
The iPhone 6s no longer receives the latest iOS updates, which significantly impacts its usability in 2024. Without these updates, the device cannot access new features or optimizations, and over time, it may struggle with compatibility issues as apps and services evolve. However, Apple continues to provide security updates to the iPhone 6s, with the last one being in July 2024. While this helps protect the device from emerging threats, the duration of this support is uncertain.
Market Availability and Condition
In 2024, finding an iPhone 6s in good condition is increasingly difficult. Most of the available units are likely to show significant signs of wear and tear, and the battery life may be considerably reduced due to the age of the device. Even if you manage to find an iPhone 6s in decent condition, it’s not a wise investment considering its outdated hardware and software limitations.
Why You Should Consider iPhone XS Instead
For just a bit more—typically in the $100+ range—you can purchase an iPhone XS, which offers far superior value compared to the iPhone 6s. The iPhone XS continues to receive the latest iOS updates and security patches, ensuring it remains compatible with new apps and features. Additionally, the iPhone XS boasts a more modern design, with a larger OLED display, a faster A12 Bionic chip, and enhanced camera capabilities, making it a much more reliable and future-proof option.
Full Specs Comparison
| Specification |
iPhone 6s |
iPhone XS |
| Release Date |
September 2015 |
September 2018 |
| Display |
4.7-inch Retina HD LCD |
5.8-inch Super Retina OLED |
| Processor |
A9 chip |
A12 Bionic |
| Rear Cameras |
12MP (Wide) |
Dual 12MP (Wide, Telephoto) |
| Front Camera |
5MP FaceTime HD |
7MP TrueDepth |
| Battery Life |
Up to 14 hours talk time |
Up to 20 hours talk time |
| Storage Options |
16GB, 32GB, 64GB, 128GB |
64GB, 256GB, 512GB |
| Operating System |
iOS 15.6.1 (Final) |
iOS 17+ (Current) |
| Dimensions |
138.3 x 67.1 x 7.1 mm |
143.6 x 70.9 x 7.7 mm |
| Weight |
143 grams |
177 grams |
Display Comparison
The iPhone 6s features a 4.7-inch Retina HD LCD display, which was a solid offering at its release but has since been surpassed by newer technology. In contrast, the iPhone XS boasts a 5.8-inch Super Retina OLED display, offering richer colors, deeper blacks, and higher contrast ratios. The OLED display on the iPhone XS also supports HDR10 and Dolby Vision, making it a superior choice for multimedia consumption.
Chipset Comparison
The iPhone 6s is powered by the A9 chip, which was cutting-edge in 2015 but has since been outpaced by newer processors. The iPhone XS, with its A12 Bionic chip, delivers significantly faster performance, better energy efficiency, and enhanced machine learning capabilities. In 2024, the A9 chip may struggle with modern apps and multitasking, whereas the A12 Bionic remains highly capable and future-proof.
Camera Comparison
The iPhone 6s has a single 12MP rear camera, which, while still serviceable, lacks the versatility and advanced features found in newer models. The iPhone XS, on the other hand, features a dual 12MP rear camera system with wide and telephoto lenses, allowing for better zoom capabilities, improved portrait mode, and enhanced low-light performance. The iPhone XS also includes a 7MP TrueDepth front camera, which supports Face ID and offers superior portrait selfies compared to the 5MP FaceTime HD camera on the iPhone 6s.
Battery Comparison
The iPhone 6s offers up to 14 hours of talk time, which was adequate at the time of its release but may no longer be sufficient for users with heavier usage patterns. The iPhone XS, with up to 20 hours of talk time, provides significantly better battery life, ensuring it can last through a full day of use even with demanding tasks.
Software Support
The iPhone 6s stopped receiving iOS updates in August 2022, with iOS 15.6.1 being its final version. In contrast, the iPhone XS continues to receive the latest iOS updates and security patches, ensuring it remains compatible with new apps and services. The ongoing software support for the iPhone XS makes it a much better investment for users who want a device that will remain up-to-date for several more years.
Conclusion
In 2024, the iPhone 6s is no longer a recommended choice for most users. The device’s inability to receive iOS updates, coupled with its age and limited availability in good condition, makes it a poor investment. Instead, consider the iPhone XS, which provides a significantly better experience and will remain relevant for several more years. For those looking for a budget-friendly iPhone in 2024, the iPhone XS is a much wiser choice than the outdated iPhone 6s.
Used vs. Certified Used/Refurbished
When shopping for an older iPhone model, it’s important to understand the difference between a regular used phone and a certified used or refurbished phone. A used iPhone is typically sold as-is, with no guarantees about its condition or functionality. These devices might have unseen defects or wear and tear that could affect their performance over time. On the other hand, a certified used or refurbished iPhone has been thoroughly inspected, tested, and restored to meet high standards, often including a warranty. This ensures that the device is in excellent working condition, providing peace of mind with your purchase.
How to Get the Best Deal with Confidence and Quality Assurance
To ensure you’re getting the best deal on a certified used or refurbished iPhone, it’s crucial to purchase from a reputable source that offers quality assurance. Platforms like UpTrade provide a wide selection of certified refurbished phones that have been rigorously tested for quality and reliability. Only Certified Professional Resellers (e.g., Amazon Renew) can be listed on UpTrade. This ensures that you get a device that is both affordable and reliable. Check out the latest prices of Certified Used/Refurbished iPhone XS.
