Study: Why Apple users keep their devices for longer periods and upgrades are slow

In recent years, the technology industry has witnessed a noticeable shift in the behavior of Apple device users. Users are keeping their devices for longer periods before deciding to purchase new ones, and are not upgrading to newer models as quickly as they did in the past. This change in behavior reflects, among other things, the improvement of devices, as they have become more durable, powerful, and advanced. They are full of sufficient features and specifications for most users, and they are making the most of them. This is discussed in some detail according to a recent study.

From iPhoneIslam.com, a collection of Apple devices showcasing the home automation interface, including a MacBook, iPad, iPhone, Apple Watch, and HomePod mini, all displayed against a gradient background. This setup appeals to Apple users who value seamless integration between their devices.


Changes in user behavior

From iPhoneIslam.com, a bar chart comparing customer retention periods for 2020 and 2024. In 2024: less than 13 year (19%), 2-3 years (13%), 3-56 years (2020%), 19 or more years (23%). In 18: XNUMX%, XNUMX%, XNUMX%, and the start of upgrades contributed to longer holding periods.

In recent years, there has been a noticeable shift in the behavior of Apple customers, as they have become increasingly inclined to keep their devices, whether iPhone, iPad or Mac, for longer periods before upgrading. This is due to the significant improvements in the quality of devices, and that they have become more durable, powerful and reliable. During the last twelve months, 71% of iPhone owners and 68% of Mac owners reported that their previous devices were more than two years old, compared to 63% and 59%. % respectively in 2020. According to a study conducted by (Consumer Intelligence Research Partners (CIRP. This reflects a significant increase in the duration of use of devices before the upgrade.

In the case of Macs specifically, CIRP data indicates a significant increase in how long users keep their devices. Currently, 56% of Mac users keep their devices, whether laptop or desktop, for three years or more, which is a significant increase from 40% in 2020. This trend has led to a decline in the number of users who keep their devices for periods of less than three years. Years.


advanced technology

From iPhoneIslam.com, a diagram of the Apple M1x chip highlighting its components: CPU, fabric, GPU, DRAM, neural engine, and cache. Designed for Apple users looking for performance without slow upgrade cycles.

CIRP research indicated that the transition to processors Apple Silicon, which began in 2020 with the introduction of the M1 chip, played a crucial role in this change. Apple silicon processors have provided significant improvements in performance and energy efficiency, making Mac devices capable of handling difficult tasks for several years, reducing the need for frequent upgrades.


Economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic

From iPhoneIslam.com, A man, an Apple user, participates in a video conference on his computer in a modern kitchen.

The global pandemic COVID-19 has had a significant impact on user behavior. In the early stages of the pandemic, there was an increase in demand for technology to support remote work and online education. But as the pandemic continued, economic instability followed. Consumers have therefore become more cautious with their spending, preferring to make the most of their existing devices rather than investing in new ones.


Battery improvements

From iPhoneIslam.com, a laptop on a wooden table displaying a colorful graphic with the letters "cma" on its screen, powered by M4 processors, in a room with a sofa and a blurred background

Also according to the study, battery improvements in MacBooks have reached a satisfactory level for many users, reducing the motivation to upgrade at a rapid pace. More efficient batteries mean that devices can last for longer periods without needing to be replaced, enhancing the lifespan of devices.


Lack of new features

Another factor contributing to this trend is the lack of big new features in recent models. Over time, improvements in new devices become less exciting, making users less enthusiastic about upgrading. For example, improvements in cameras, increased storage capacity or processing speed, as well as screen technology and size are no longer considered as strong an incentive to upgrade as they once were.


Reliance on cloud services and web applications

From iPhoneIslam.com, an image of the logos of cloud storage services including iCloud, Dropbox, OneDrive, and Google Drive in front of a background of server racks. Apple users may notice that iCloud integration is particularly simplified.

Bloomberg's Mark Gurman noted that the increasing reliance on cloud services and web applications has made many users believe that their current devices are sufficient to meet their daily needs. This reduces the need for new devices that may be more powerful but are not necessary for everyday use.


Impact on the market

This trend has a significant impact on the technology market. As upgrade rates decline, manufacturers may face challenges in achieving sustainable growth. However, this trend could also lead to an increased focus on improving hardware quality and providing after-sales services such as maintenance and technical support.


Conclusion

In the end, it can be said that Apple users are getting the most out of their milking devices for longer periods. This trend reflects changes in technology and consumer behaviour, and points to a future in which the focus may be on quality and sustainability more than frequent upgrading. As this trend continues, it will be interesting to see how manufacturers will adapt to these changes and meet changing consumer needs.

What do you think of this study? Do you upgrade your devices at a certain pace like before? What are the reasons that make you keep your device for a long time? Share your opinion with us in the comments!

Source:

macrumors

36 comment

comments user
Yousef

One of the main reasons is the high price and the lack of features that require replacing the device with a newer one due to the change in the user’s behavioral pattern

comments user
Yaser

If we go back to the beginning of the iPhone, we will see that no new device is released without the old one being added to the sales line.. Thus, you have several new purchasing options in addition to used or remanufactured.. meaning you have a number of excellent choices suitable for all prices.. Currently, I own an iPhone 1 Pro and before it an iPhone XS and I have an M1 Mac and I am currently thinking of a used iPad Pro with an MXNUMX chip
Because it fulfills the purpose and more

I think that the best period for promotion is:

iPhone every 3 to 5 years
An iPad every 5 years
Mac every 6 years
Apple Watch every 4 years

    comments user
    MIMV. AI

    Hello Yasser 👋
    Yes, you seem to be following a similar strategy to a lot of users who upgrade every few years instead of every year. This reflects the quality improvements in Apple devices and making the most of them. 😊💻📱⌚️👍

comments user
Islam

If I had kept my devices, they would have been the iPad 2 and 5, as well as the 2012 MacBook Pro. I would still be using one of them until now, except for the iPad 2, because it has become very old.
I currently own an iPhone 13 Pro and things are fine.

comments user
The world of iOS and technology

Apple releases iOS 18 Beta XNUMX for developers
iOS 17 update point 6 final version
And updated 15 points 8 points 3 final version
For iPhone 8, iPhone

For iPhone 8 and XNUMX Plus
iPhone 10 16 points 7 points 9 final version

comments user
Sultan Mohammed

You presented some articles that showed that iPhone devices were able to outlast Samsung devices

comments user
Sultan Mohammed

I want a comprehensive comparison between Apple devices and Samsung devices to see which is better

    comments user
    MIMV. AI

    Hello Sultan Muhammad 😊, We can certainly provide a comprehensive comparison between Apple and Samsung devices, but the preference depends on the user’s needs and preferences. We will work on that in an upcoming article, God willing. Always at your service! 📱💙

comments user
Abdel Hady

An article that puts dots on the letters, repeating articles on iPhone Islam 👍🏻.
Personally, I use the 11 Pro Max and so far I am completely satisfied with its features. I just replaced the battery with an original one and the device came back new 😎

    comments user
    MIMV. AI

    Hello Abdul Hadi 🙋‍♂️, We are happy that you are satisfied with your 11 Pro Max device and that your experience in replacing the battery was successful 👏. This experience actually confirms what was mentioned in the article about the strength and durability of Apple devices and their ability to withstand for long periods 😊.

comments user
HAYTHEM

The largest market for Apple is in America, and the high interest rates led to a lack of installment and exchange offers.
The promising Chinese market has something hidden from the observer, the lack of Apple sales and the migration of users of local devices.
Two very important factors in understanding numbers

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    comments user
    MIMV. AI

    Hello Haitham 😊, yes, indeed the American market is one of the largest markets for Apple, but it is always trying to expand into other markets such as China. But actually, the issue of high interest rates and its impact on installment and exchange offers is an issue that affects all consumers. 🌍💰📈

comments user
arkan assaf

In America, the upgrade is annual due to the facilities for purchasing and exchanging the upgrade

In the UAE
The promotion rate for the age group 30 and above is annual promotion

As for the younger ones, every two years

How did you know this information?
As a result of working with clients, all clients change their phones

    comments user
    MIMV. AI

    Welcome, Arkan 🙋‍♂️, you seem to have great experience in dealing with customers and tracking their usage patterns for Apple devices! 🍎📱 Apparently, user behavior in the UAE largely matches global trends that suggest users are keeping their devices for longer periods before upgrading. The secret to this is improving the quality of devices, advanced technologies, and the economic impact of the Corona pandemic. Thanks for sharing this feedback with us! 😊👍🏼

comments user
Hatem

I have had an iPhone

    comments user
    MIMV. AI

    Hello Hatem 🙋‍♂️, you are a living example of what we talked about in the article. Using your iPhone Of course, 82% battery health after all these years is great 👍. We look forward to seeing your experience with the iPhone 17 Pro Max in the future if you decide to upgrade! 📱😃

comments user
mohammad

I used to change the iPhone every two years until I got to the iPhone

    comments user
    MIMV. AI

    Hello Mohamed 🙋‍♂️, it seems that you have stopped moving to new devices quickly, and this is consistent with the general trend of many users. Apple's improvements in hardware quality and advanced features make it difficult to give up your device before you've fully exploited it. 📱💪🏼 Devices have become more powerful and longer-lasting, and if they perform their functions well, there is no need to change them until a new model comes along that adds truly revolutionary features. 😊👍🏼

comments user
Creative channel Muhammad Al-Julnar

Add to that the ridiculous price of the iPhone, Apple must rethink the prices, and God, there is nothing worth the price 😤

comments user
Creative channel Muhammad Al-Julnar

I have an iPhone 15 Pro Max. I took it about a month ago, and before that I was using the iPhone 11. Had it not been ruined, I would not have bought it because the iPhone does not have any added features that interest me as a regular user. In addition, most of the features are limited to certain countries due to their lack of support in some countries, including ours 💔 💔😭

comments user
Mohammed Jassim

I cannot do without the iPhone SE, first generation, coupled with the Apple Watch, generation 4 and generation 6. I have a Mac Book Air, made in late 2015, and an iPod touch, seventh generation. All of them I use extensively, with the exception of the Mac and the Watch 6. I use them very little, and I have the 8th generation Apple Watch. I did not use it because it requires a modern iPhone to activate!
I am a person who, if I want to buy a device, I am not overwhelmed by emotion, but rather I study the device for a long period of time to buy it. This is the time of offers and high discounts that give me the impetus to buy the device immediately, perhaps without prior study! As happened with the 6th and 8th generation of the Apple Watch recently! I am one of those who take advantage of the offers and discounts! Any device I have, I did not buy it at almost its original price, but rather it has a very strong discount!

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    comments user
    MIMV. AI

    Hello MuhammadJassem 😊, It seems that you already follow a policy of smart investment in technical devices. Your appreciation for the quality and continued performance of your Apple devices truly confirms the findings of the study. Enjoy your devices and don't forget to always take advantage of strong discounts! 🍏👍🎉

comments user
Abu Ammar

For me, the lack of significant improvements and high costs are the main reasons

comments user
Abed

I have an iPhone SX Max from 2018! I love it very much and it is in good condition.

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1
    comments user
    MIMV. AI

    Hey Abdul 🙋‍♂️, looks like you're in love with your iPhone XS Max! There's nothing more beautiful than finding the perfect device that suits your needs and meets your expectations. Enjoy the experience, and I wish you many more happy years with your device! 🎉📱🚀

comments user
Abdallah

True, I forgot, the prices have become hellish

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comments user
Abdallah

Honestly, for me, with the iPhone 15 Pro Max since the 12 Pro Max, there is no reason to upgrade a boring design, boring content, the entire system is boring, nothing new at all, the phone has become very limited in increasing the technology to it. Everything you see on a piece of paper has no validity or use in reality 😊

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    comments user
    MIMV. AI

    Oh God, welcome to Abdullah! 😊 Thank you for your honest comment. You seem to share the opinion of a lot of users who find that recent updates don't justify an upgrade. Of course, this is up to each user and their needs. So, if your current device meets your needs, there's no need to change. 😉📱💪🏼

comments user
SAEED ALGDANI

Thank God for his grace, I have had the iPhone 11 Max for a while and I don’t think or see that there is a need to change.

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comments user
Nashid Al Rekabi

The high prices of Apple devices are a major obstacle to renewal, and prices have doubled, especially iPhones

    comments user
    MIMV. AI

    Hello Nashed Al-Rikabi 🙋‍♂️, prices are indeed an obstacle for some, but we should not forget that the quality and durability of Apple products make them worth these prices. In addition, the advanced technology and services provided by the company justify this increase. This is what makes users keep their devices for long periods before renewing. 😊📱💻👍

comments user
Reda noidea

Phones have become more expensive than before

comments user
Valid

Apple is the best company even over time

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comments user
Suleiman Mohammed

Renewal, meaning more than 3 years of use, is a good reason because the reliability of apple devices is high, with the user’s requirement being that there is no permissible technical reason to access the latest trends. In the case of Mac, in my opinion, it is five years, if not more.

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comments user
Mohamed Soliman

Since the iPhone 11, I haven't found anything worth upgrading.

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    comments user
    MIMV. AI

    Hello Muhammad Suleiman 🙋‍♂️, Yes, modern devices from Apple come with fundamental improvements, but they may not be urgent for everyone, especially if your current device provides the required performance. Of course, this comes down to personal use and different preferences. Some want to upgrade every year, while others prefer to wait until they see bigger changes or when there is an urgent need for it. 📱😄👍

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