Should You Upgrade to iOS 12 on Your iPhone 6s?
Introduction
If you are currently using an iPhone 6s on iOS 11.4.1 and are considering an update to iOS 12, this article will guide you in making an informed decision. The iPhone 6s, released in 2015, has served many users well, but with newer software comes improved functionality and potentially better performance. This piece will explore the benefits, the cost, and the feasibility of upgrading.
Cost Considerations
First and foremost, it's crucial to assess whether you have the financial means to make an upgrade. Updating to iOS 12 is a software upgrade, which means you don’t need to purchase a new device. However, the iPhone 6s itself is nearing the end of its support lifecycle. Apple typically stops providing software updates for devices after several years, primarily due to hardware limitations.
According to Apple, the iPhone 6s and its updated iterations (like the 6s Plus) will receive updates until 2021. However, iOS 12 was released in September 2018, meaning it's already quite outdated. If you plan to upgrade to iOS 12, you'll be missing out on several months of updates and potential performance improvements.
Feature Comparisons: iOS 11.4.1 vs iOS 12
While the iPhone 6s might run iOS 12, the experience won't be as seamless or efficient as it would be on newer models. Let's compare what iOS 12 offers that iOS 11.4.1 does not:
Face ID and Enhanced Security
One of the most significant changes with iOS 12 is the introduction of Face ID. This new feature replaces Touch ID, offering a more secure and user-friendly way to unlock your phone. If you don't already have a device with Face ID, this could be a compelling reason to consider an upgrade.
No Home Button and Bigger Bells
Another major change is the removal of the home button and the introduction of the notch, or bezel, which significantly reduces button and display real estate. This design change could be a deal-breaker for some, especially if you prefer a larger home button or a vertically-aligned camera.
5G and OLED Displays
The iPhone 12 Pro Max, which introduced 5G capabilities and an OLED display, is light-years ahead of the 6s. While your 6s doesn't support 5G, it would benefit from the improved display and performance offered by the A14 Bionic chip and Neural Engine, which enhance tasks like machine learning and augmented reality.
Performance Improvements
Even without the display and camera upgrades, iOS 12 offers several performance enhancements. These include:
Dark Mode and 3D Touch
Dark mode is a welcome feature that minimizes eye strain and optimizes energy usage. 3D Touch, while deprecated in newer models, enhances the interactive capabilities of apps, making them more responsive and intuitive.
Improved Notes and Emojis
Update to iOS 12 to enjoy new note-taking features and a wider range of emojis and stickers. These additions, while seemingly minor, can significantly enhance your overall user experience.
Conclusion
Whether you should or should not upgrade to iOS 12 on your iPhone 6s is ultimately a personal choice. Technologically, the gap between iOS 11.4.1 and iOS 12 is substantial, and you will notice a significant difference in performance if you decide to upgrade.
However, if you find that your iPhone 6s is still running smoothly and without issues, you might not need to make the upgrade. Always weigh the benefits and costs before making any changes to your device.
Final Thoughts
If you're looking to upgrade to iOS 12, consider the following points:
Check if your device supports the update. Evaluating the additional features and performance improvements. Considering whether these upgrades are worth the effort.Remember, the iPhone 6s is a reliable device, but it is nearing the end of its support cycle. If you're planning to keep your device for another year or two, iOS 12 may offer enough of a performance and feature boost to make the update worthwhile. Ultimately, weigh the pros and cons, and make the choice that best suits your needs.
Have a great day!