Apple launches a new iPhone every September—but that’s not the only factor to consider when deciding to upgrade. Here’s a fast breakdown of when, why, and which iPhone to buy, based on Apple’s support cycles, seasonal pricing, and your device’s health.
📆 Best Time to Buy an iPhone
✅ September (Every Year)
New iPhones are announced.
Prices on older models drop immediately.
Best time to buy either:
The latest model for max future-proofing.
The N-1 model (previous year) for the best value.
⚠️ Avoid June–August
You’ll pay full price for something Apple is about to replace.
Exception: If your current phone is truly dying and can’t wait.
💡 Bonus: Black Friday & Holidays
November–December often brings discounts or gift card bundles.
Not as good as September—but still worthwhile if you miss the launch window.
🔍 Signs It’s Time to Upgrade
📱 Your phone won’t get the next iOS
Apple supports iPhones for 5–6 years of major iOS updates.
Example: iPhone X and 8 lost support in 2024 with iOS 18.
No more features, security gets iffy over time.
🔋 Battery is dying
Below 80% capacity? Expect fast drain and performance throttling.
Apple offers official battery replacements for 7 years after a model is discontinued.
If your device is working well otherwise and has life remaining, have the Apple Store replace the battery.
🐢 It’s slow or glitchy
Laggy UI, crashes, or apps not loading? Your hardware may be aging out.
Newer apps expect more from your processor and memory.
📷 You want new features
Recent iPhones come with:
48MP or periscope zoom cameras.
USB-C ports (iPhone 15+).
Support for Apple Intelligence (AI features) in A17 Pro+ and newer chips.
🧳 Storage is maxed out
Older iPhones often only have 64GB or 128GB.
Cloud backups help, but add monthly costs—and you still run out of local space.
🔁 Which iPhone Should You Buy?
🥇 Latest Model (N)
Best performance, camera, and future-proofing.
5–6 years of full iOS and hardware support.
Worth it if you want cutting-edge features or keep phones long-term.
🥈 Previous Model (N-1)
Still fast, high-end, and now cheaper by $100–$150.
Often identical design with minor performance trade-offs.
Great option if you want premium hardware at a better price.
🚫 Older Than N-1 (N-2 or earlier)
Only buy if budget-constrained or as a secondary phone.
Shorter remaining support lifespan.
May need a new battery soon.
🛠️ How Long Does Apple Support iPhones?
| Support Type | Duration |
|---|---|
| iOS Updates | ~5–6 years from release |
| Security Patches | ~1–2 years beyond last iOS version |
| Battery Service | Up to 7 years after sales end |
| Hardware Repairs | While parts last (not guaranteed) |