As new models come out every year, many people wonder what to do with an old iPhone. The good news? In 2026, older devices still have plenty of value whether you plan to keep using them or sell them in the secondhand market. However, not every feature stands the test of time. This guide breaks down what still works on an old iPhone, what doesn’t, and how to decide if it’s worth repairing, repurposing, or reselling.
Even years after release, Apple devices tend to remain functional in many ways. Here’s what usually continues to work well:
Most carriers still support older LTE-capable models, and Wi-Fi connectivity remains stable on nearly all iPhones made after 2016. If your old iPhone is unlocked and compatible with your carrier, you can still use it. It could be a backup device, a starter phone for a child, or a dedicated work phone.
You can still download many popular apps as long as your iPhone supports at least iOS 15 or 16. Devices like the iPhone XR, XS, 11, and even some 8 series phones can still run modern apps without major performance issues.
Older models may not get the latest updates, but they still support essentials like email, messaging apps, music streaming, and navigation.
While an old iPhone won’t match the multi-lens systems of the newest Pro models, Apple’s camera hardware ages surprisingly well. You can still get crisp photos, record video, and use features like HDR and portrait mode (depending on the model). For casual users, older cameras often feel more than adequate.
Apple and third-party repair shops continue to offer battery replacements for many models. If your old iPhone drains quickly, replacing the battery can dramatically improve daily performance at a relatively low cost.
In 2026, repurposing an old iPhone is more useful than ever. Common repurposing ideas include:
As iPhones age, certain features naturally become limited or obsolete. Here’s what you may notice.
Older iPhones eventually stop receiving major iOS updates. Without updates, you lose:
A lack of updates doesn’t immediately make an old iPhone useless, but it does limit long-term viability.
Aging processors struggle with:
If your iPhone lags, crashes, or freezes, it may be struggling to keep up with 2026 software demands.
Most older phones don’t support 5G. While LTE is still widely available in 2026, users may notice slower speeds, especially in dense urban areas where carriers are prioritizing modern networks.
All lithium-ion batteries degrade over time. Eventually, even a new battery replacement becomes less cost-effective for extremely old models. A failing battery may:
Many old iPhone models start with 16GB or 32GB of storage, which fills quickly in 2026. With apps, photos, videos, and system data taking up more space than ever before, storage limitations can become a major barrier.
Ask yourself these questions to decide if repair or resale is the better option:
If you answered "yes" to several, it may be time to move on.
If you're thinking about selling your device, a thorough diagnostic report can increase its resale value and reduce disputes with buyers. A certified device history report provides transparency into:
Buyers today expect proof that an old iPhone is authentic, safe, and fully functional. Tools like Phonecheck help you certify your device for resale, giving both buyers and sellers confidence in the transaction.
Reselling is often the best option if your iPhone:
Even older models often sell for more than people expect—especially when certified and properly wiped.
In 2026, an old iPhone can still be incredibly useful, whether you continue using it, repurpose it, or sell it. While there are limitations in performance, software support, and battery life, many features still work reliably. Understanding what your device can and cannot do helps you make the best decision moving forward. And if you plan to enter the resale market, getting your device properly checked and certified ensures a smoother, safer experience.
