It’s official: Android phone owners upgrade more often than iPhone users

A growing number of iPhone users are choosing to keep their phones for longer periods.

According to CIRP’s latest report, about one-third of iPhone owners who bought a new phone in the United States in the past year have kept their device for at least three years.

When comparing the latest 2024 data on iPhone and Android user patterns, it is clear that the trend for iPhone owners to keep their devices longer continues to strengthen.

In 2023, about 29 percent of iPhone users kept their devices for three years or more, while 21 percent of Android users did the same. In 2024, the gap widened slightly, with a third of iPhone users keeping their phones for three years or more.

Apple has focused in recent years on refining its phones rather than introducing groundbreaking new features every year. This has resulted in a product line that remains functional and relevant for longer, reducing the need for many users to upgrade.

In addition, with Apple’s option to pay for an iPhone in instalments, consumers feel less pressure to upgrade prematurely as payments are spread out over a longer period, encouraging them to wait longer before switching phones.

Apple has successfully built a loyal customer base that strongly identifies with the brand, creating a sense of belonging and loyalty among its users.

In contrast, Android users tend to replace their phones more often. Only 21 percent of Android owners reported keeping their phone for three years or more, a marked difference compared to the iPhone.

Android phones are made by different manufacturers, giving users a wider choice of devices and features. As a result, Android users are more likely to upgrade their phones as new features and models become available from different manufacturers.

In addition, many Android phones are cheaper than iPhones, making it both easier and simpler for users to justify upgrading to a newer model more often.