As of 2024, the iPhone 7 is no longer a practical option for most users. Apple discontinued iOS support for the iPhone 7 in August 2022, with iOS 15.6.1 being its final version. While the device still receives security updates—most recently in July 2024—the lack of ongoing iOS updates means the iPhone 7 will miss out on new features, optimizations, and app compatibility improvements introduced in newer iOS versions.
Software and Security Support
The iPhone 7 no longer receives the latest iOS updates, which significantly impacts its usability in 2024. Without these updates, the device cannot access new features or performance enhancements, and over time, it may face compatibility issues with apps and services that require newer versions of iOS. However, Apple has continued to provide security updates to the iPhone 7, with the last one being in July 2024. These updates help protect the device from emerging threats, but the duration of this support is uncertain.
Market Availability and Condition
In 2024, finding an iPhone 7 in good condition is becoming increasingly challenging. Most 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 Even if you manage to find an iPhone 7 in decent condition, it’s not a wise investment considering its outdated hardware and software limitations.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 7. 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 7 |
iPhone XS |
| Release Date |
September 2016 |
September 2018 |
| Display |
4.7-inch Retina HD LCD |
5.8-inch Super Retina OLED |
| Processor |
A10 Fusion |
A12 Bionic |
| Rear Cameras |
12MP (Wide) |
Dual 12MP (Wide, Telephoto) |
| Front Camera |
7MP FaceTime HD |
7MP TrueDepth |
| Battery Life |
Up to 14 hours talk time |
Up to 20 hours talk time |
| Storage Options |
32GB, 128GB, 256GB |
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 |
138 grams |
177 grams |
Display Comparison
The iPhone 7 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 7 is powered by the A10 Fusion chip, which was cutting-edge in 2016 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 A10 Fusion may struggle with modern apps and multitasking, whereas the A12 Bionic remains highly capable and future-proof.
Camera Comparison
The iPhone 7 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 7MP FaceTime HD camera on the iPhone 7.
Battery Comparison
The iPhone 7 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 7 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 7 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 7.
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.
