Why Many iPhone Users Are Skipping the 17 Series Upgrade

Despite media buzz, many smartphone users are holding firm on their current devices, opting to skip the latest iPhone 17 series. A predominant sentiment reveals a practical approach to technology adoption, prioritizing longevity and functionality over yearly upgrades driven by marketing hype.

The Longevity Trend

One of the most striking observations is the commitment to device longevity. Users frequently report holding onto their phones for several years, often until a critical component fails or the device becomes genuinely unusable. Examples include a user upgrading from a 2012 3G flip phone to a new, inexpensive 4G flip phone, or others clinging to their iPhone 6, X, 11 Pro, 13 mini, or 13 Pro Max. This approach is driven by both frugality and a disdain for perceived planned obsolescence, with some actively disliking the necessity of owning a modern smartphone at all. A common strategy involves passing down perfectly functional older flagships, ensuring maximum utility from each purchase.

Diminishing Returns and Feature Skepticism

Skepticism about the value proposition of new features is widespread. Users question whether the incremental improvements in the latest models justify the high price tag. Specific points of contention include:

Unfulfilled Promises: Some iPhone 16 buyers are reportedly still waiting on features promised at their purchase, leading to distrust in new announcements.
Hardware vs. Software: While the iPhone 17 Pro might offer better thermals and more RAM, users note that iOS's aggressive process killing (likely for battery saving) often negates the benefits of increased memory, preventing applications from staying active longer.
Apple Intelligence: The new "Apple Intelligence" features are largely viewed as having limited utility, primarily useful for "extremely limited text editing/review" rather than transformative functions.
Design Annoyances: Practical design elements, such as button placement on the 16 and 17 series, are cited as annoying in everyday use.

Practical Upgrades and Feature Value

For many, an upgrade is only considered under specific conditions. A broken device, a genuine need for a specific accessibility feature (like improved PWM on the 17), or a significant leap in a desired feature are the primary motivators. For instance, some users express a desire for USB-C charging but do not consider it worth the full price of a new iPhone 17, highlighting a cost-benefit analysis at play. Others adopt a “waiting game,” hoping for more exciting software developments or further hardware refinements before making a switch. The overall sentiment suggests a conscious move away from impulsive annual upgrades towards a more considered, needs-driven approach to smartphone purchasing.