Revitalizing Old iPhones and iPads: The Case of iPhone 4S/5 and iPad 2

Thanks for the A2A. I had recently updated my iPhone 5s to iOS 12, a decision that I now consider a minor regret. While the experience has been positive, there are some nuances to consider, especially for those using older devices like the iPhone 4S, iPhone 5, and iPad 2. In this article, I will delve into the benefits and limitations of updating these older devices to the latest iOS version.

The Decision to Upgrade: The iPhone 5s and iOS 12

My experience with the iPhone 5s and its upgrade to iOS 12 reveals a mix of improvements and limitations. Initially, I opted for a 16GB version, intending to make it last longer. The phone has served me well, but my decision to upgrade to iOS 12 was a mistake. After using it for just a few days, I received a newer device, which, despite being more advanced, remains a joy to use. However, the hardware's limitations with high-intensity apps, particularly YouTube, have been challenging.

Benefits of Updating Old Devices

The primary benefit of updating your older iPhone or iPad is the latest features and security patches that come with the new iOS version. iOS 12 introduced several enhancements, such as improved Siri, enhanced Face ID, and better Battery Health tools. Additionally, the new version can offer better compatibility with new apps, although this varies significantly based on the device's capabilities.

Limitations of Updating Old Devices

While updating your older iPhone or iPad can be rewarding, it also comes with its share of challenges. As the hardware ages, it may struggle with newer OS versions more than initially anticipated. The iPhone 5s and iPad 2, in particular, are notorious for performance issues when running newer iOS versions. Here are some common struggles:

Storage Capacity: Older devices have limited storage, which can cause issues when trying to install the latest updates and apps. For instance, the iPhone 5s has just 16GB, meaning you must carefully manage your app and media installations. App Performance: Newer apps and services may not run as smoothly or efficiently as intended. Voice assistants like Siri and high-demand apps such as YouTube might exhibit lag or crashes. Battery Life: Older devices often experience shorter battery life, especially when running resource-intensive tasks. This can make it uncomfortable to use these devices for extended periods.

Alternatives to Updating Old Devices

Before deciding to update your old iPhone or iPad, consider these alternatives:

Downgrade to a Previous iOS Version: Some older devices support older versions of iOS, which may perform better. For example, the iPhone 5s can still run iOS 15. This can be a viable option if you find that newer updates are causing issues. Use for Passcode Locks: For devices like the iPhone 4S and iPad 2, keeping them for passcode locks or as children's main devices can be a good use case, as these tasks do not require much processing power. Donate or Sell: If you no longer need your old device, consider donating it to a charity or selling it to someone who does not require the latest technology. This can be an eco-friendly and financially beneficial option.

Conclusion

Updating your older iPhone or iPad to a newer iOS version can offer some benefits but also presents significant challenges. It's essential to carefully assess the device's capabilities and your needs before making the decision. By understanding the pros and cons, you can make an informed choice that best suits your situation.