Iphone 12 Pro Or Galaxy S20 Plus In 2024 What Are People Actually Upgrading To

In 2024, few consumers are upgrading directly from the iPhone 12 Pro or Galaxy S20 Plus to another phone of similar age. These devices, once flagship contenders in 2020, now sit firmly in the mid-tier or legacy category. While they still function well for basic tasks, advancements in performance, camera systems, battery life, and software support have shifted consumer behavior. The real question isn’t whether to stick with these phones—it’s what users are choosing when it’s time to move on.

Market data from Counterpoint Research and consumer surveys show a clear trend: most owners of these models are skipping one or even two generations and jumping straight to current flagships or high-end mid-rangers. This shift reflects both improved longevity in older devices and higher expectations from modern smartphones.

Why Upgrading Matters in 2024

The smartphone landscape has evolved rapidly since 2020. 5G networks are now mainstream, AI-powered photography is standard, and app ecosystems demand more processing power than ever. Devices like the iPhone 12 Pro and Galaxy S20 Plus, while capable at launch, lack sustained software updates, advanced computational features, and optimal efficiency for modern multitasking.

Apple continues to support iOS updates for around five years post-launch, meaning the iPhone 12 Pro will likely receive its last major update with iOS 18 in 2025. Samsung offers four major Android upgrades and five years of security patches—putting the S20 Plus at end-of-life by late 2024. For users who rely on up-to-date apps, security, and new features, this timeline makes upgrading essential.

Tip: If your phone no longer receives OS updates, consider upgrading—even if it feels fast enough. Security vulnerabilities become harder to patch over time.

Where Users Are Moving: Top Upgrade Paths

Based on resale trends, carrier trade-in reports, and user forums like Reddit and XDA Developers, here are the most common upgrade destinations for iPhone 12 Pro and Galaxy S20 Plus owners in 2024:

• iPhone 15 or iPhone 15 Plus – Preferred by iPhone 12 Pro users seeking familiarity with tangible improvements in battery, display, and camera.
• Samsung Galaxy S23 or S24 series – A natural progression for S20 Plus users wanting refined hardware and One UI 6/7 enhancements.
• Google Pixel 8 or Pixel 8 Pro – Attracting users from both ecosystems due to superior AI features, clean Android experience, and free unlimited photo storage until 2025.
• iPhone 14 Pro or 15 Pro Max – Chosen by power users and creatives needing the Dynamic Island, better telephoto zoom, and ProMotion displays.
• OnePlus 12 or Xiaomi 14 – Gaining traction among budget-conscious enthusiasts who want near-flagship specs at lower prices.

“Users aren’t just replacing old phones—they’re leapfrogging to devices that offer meaningful generational gains.” — David Kim, Senior Analyst at TechInsight Group

Upgrade Comparison: What You Gain

Feature	iPhone 12 Pro / S20 Plus (2020)	Typical 2024 Upgrade (e.g., iPhone 15 / S24 Ultra)
Processor	A14 Bionic / Snapdragon 865	A17 Pro / Snapdragon 8 Gen 3
RAM	6GB	8–12GB
Rear Camera System	Triple 12MP / Triple 12/64/12MP	48–200MP main + AI-enhanced processing
Battery Life	~1 day moderate use	1.5–2 days with optimized charging
Software Support	Ending in 2024–2025	Supported through 2028–2029
Display Refresh Rate	60Hz (iPhone), 120Hz (S20+)	Adaptive 120Hz (both)
Charging	Wired + Wireless (slow)	Faster wired & wireless; some include satellite SOS

The table illustrates why upgrades feel significant. Even modest jumps—like moving from an iPhone 12 Pro to an iPhone 15—deliver faster app launches, crisper night photos, longer battery endurance, and future-proofed software cycles.

Real Example: Sarah’s Cross-Ecosystem Switch

Sarah, a graphic designer from Austin, used her iPhone 12 Pro for nearly four years. By early 2024, she noticed frequent app crashes, slow photo exports, and declining battery health (down to 72%). She considered the iPhone 15 but was drawn to Samsung’s S Pen integration and multi-device workflow with her Windows laptop.

After testing both devices at a Best Buy store, she traded in her iPhone 12 Pro for $180 and purchased a Galaxy S24 Ultra with $200 carrier credit. Her transition included using Samsung Smart Switch, re-downloading cloud-synced photos, and adjusting to One UI—but within a week, she reported smoother performance, faster rendering, and better stylus precision for sketching mockups.

“I didn’t expect to leave Apple after ten years,” she said, “but the upgrade wasn’t just about specs. It was about getting more done without frustration.”

Actionable Upgrade Checklist

Before making your move, follow this checklist to ensure a smooth transition:

1. Check your current phone’s trade-in value – Use sites like Gazelle, Apple Trade In, or carrier portals to compare offers.
2. Evaluate your usage patterns – Do you need long battery life? Better cameras? Desktop-like multitasking?
3. Determine your ecosystem loyalty – Staying within iOS or Android simplifies data transfer and accessory compatibility.
4. Research software support timelines – Aim for at least four more years of updates.
5. Test devices in person – Visit stores to assess size, weight, screen quality, and interface responsiveness.
6. Back up all data – Use iCloud, Google Drive, or local backups before wiping your old device.
7. Time promotions – Look for holiday sales, student discounts, or carrier deals offering free accessories or extra credit.

Tip: Don’t rush the decision. Many users regret switching ecosystems without testing first. Rent or borrow a device for a weekend trial if possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I still use my iPhone 12 Pro or Galaxy S20 Plus in 2024?

Yes, for calls, messaging, light browsing, and social media. However, newer apps may run slower, and lack of updates increases security risks over time. Performance degrades noticeably under heavy loads like gaming or video editing.

Should I upgrade to a flagship or mid-range phone?

It depends on your needs. Flagships offer best-in-class cameras, longest support, and premium materials. Mid-range options like the Pixel 7a, iPhone SE (2023), or Galaxy A54 deliver strong core experiences at lower prices. If you plan to keep your phone beyond three years, invest in a flagship.

Is switching from iOS to Android (or vice versa) difficult?

Modern tools make transitions easier than ever. Apple’s Move to iOS and Samsung’s Smart Switch handle contacts, messages, photos, and accounts. The biggest adjustment is learning new gestures, settings layouts, and app ecosystems. Most users adapt within a week.

Final Thoughts: Upgrade With Purpose

Choosing what to upgrade to in 2024 isn’t just about replacing an aging device—it’s about aligning your technology with how you live and work today. The iPhone 12 Pro and Galaxy S20 Plus served millions well, but their era is closing. Whether you stay loyal to your brand or explore new horizons, prioritize long-term value: software support, build quality, and ecosystem integration.

Today’s best upgrades don’t just feel faster—they enable new ways to create, communicate, and stay productive. Don’t upgrade because your phone is slow. Upgrade because your life demands more.

💬 What are you upgrading to in 2024? Share your choice and experience with others considering the leap from older flagships.