The iPhone 6, released in 2014, was a landmark device that defined Apple’s smartphone design for years. Over a decade later, many users still rely on it—especially in regions where high-end smartphones remain out of reach. Meanwhile, the Samsung Galaxy A20, launched in 2019, represents an entry-level Android experience with modern features. But in 2024, does moving from an iPhone 6 to a Galaxy A20 truly offer meaningful improvements? Or is the upgrade simply swapping one outdated device for another?
This article dives deep into the practical realities of making this transition today. We’ll analyze hardware, software support, user experience, app compatibility, and long-term value—not just specs on paper, but how these phones perform in daily use.
Performance and Hardware: A Clear Generational Leap
The iPhone 6 runs on Apple’s A8 chip with 1GB of RAM. In its time, it delivered smooth performance, but by today’s standards, it struggles with multitasking, modern web browsing, and even basic app launches. iOS updates have slowed it further, and most newer apps either run poorly or won’t install at all.
In contrast, the Galaxy A20 uses Samsung’s Exynos 7884 or Snapdragon 450 (depending on region), paired with 3GB of RAM. While not powerful by current standards, it’s significantly more capable than the iPhone 6. Apps open faster, background processes are better managed, and the OS feels more responsive despite being Android Go-optimized in some variants.
The display is another major difference. The iPhone 6 has a 4.7-inch LCD with 750x1334 resolution. The Galaxy A20 offers a larger 6.4-inch HD+ (720x1560) Infinity-V display. Though lower in pixel density, the size and aspect ratio make media consumption, reading, and navigation far more comfortable.
“Even budget Android phones from 2019 outperform flagship iPhones from 2014 in multitasking and app responsiveness.” — James Lin, Mobile Analyst at TechPulse Insights
Software and Long-Term Usability
iOS 12 was the last version fully supported on the iPhone 6. Since then, Apple has cut off security updates and feature enhancements. This means no access to newer iOS features, declining app compatibility, and growing security risks—especially when handling sensitive data like banking or messaging.
The Galaxy A20 originally shipped with Android 9 (Pie) and received updates up to Android 11. While Samsung has ended official support, the device still runs modern enough software to handle WhatsApp, Google Maps, YouTube, Gmail, and most mainstream apps without issue. However, it will not receive future security patches, which is a concern over time.
One key advantage of switching to Android is flexibility. You can sideload apps, customize the interface, use file managers, and access alternative app stores—freedoms not available on iOS, especially on older, jailbreak-restricted devices like the iPhone 6.
App Compatibility in 2024
Many developers now require at least Android 8.0 or iOS 14+. The iPhone 6 maxes out at iOS 12, meaning popular apps like TikTok, newer versions of Instagram, and even updated banking apps may no longer function or install. The Galaxy A20, running Android 11, avoids this problem for now.
- iPhone 6: Increasingly incompatible with modern apps
- Galaxy A20: Still supports most essential services (as of mid-2024)
- Google Play Services: Functional on A20, limited or broken on iOS 12
Camera and Multimedia Experience
The iPhone 6 has an 8MP rear camera and 1.2MP front camera. It takes acceptable photos in good light but lacks HDR, night mode, autofocus speed, and video stabilization. Selfies are grainy, and low-light performance is poor.
The Galaxy A20 improves here with a dual-camera setup: 13MP main + 5MP ultra-wide. The front camera is 8MP. While image processing is basic and dynamic range is limited, the ability to capture wider scenes and slightly sharper images makes a difference. Video recording tops out at 1080p, compared to the iPhone 6’s 1080p/30fps limit.
| Feature | iPhone 6 | Galaxy A20 |
|---|---|---|
| Rear Camera | 8MP, single lens | 13MP + 5MP dual |
| Front Camera | 1.2MP | 8MP |
| Video Recording | 1080p @ 30fps | 1080p @ 30fps |
| Flash | Rear only (LED) | Rear LED + front screen flash |
| Low-Light Performance | Poor | Marginal improvement |
For social media, scanning documents, or capturing memories, the A20 provides a noticeably better experience—though expectations should remain modest.
Battery Life and Charging
The iPhone 6 has a 1810mAh battery. After years of charging cycles, most units today hold less than 70% capacity. Even when new, it barely lasted a full day with moderate use. Fast charging isn’t supported, and wireless charging is absent.
The Galaxy A20 packs a 4000mAh battery—more than double the capacity. In real-world use, it typically lasts a full day with mixed usage, including streaming and messaging. It supports 15W fast charging (charger often sold separately), allowing a 50% charge in about 45 minutes.
Real-World Example: Maria’s Upgrade Decision
Maria, a teacher in rural Colombia, used her iPhone 6 for six years. By 2023, her phone took over a minute to open WhatsApp, couldn’t join Zoom calls due to app incompatibility, and died by noon. She considered buying a used iPhone SE but found a Galaxy A20 refurbished for $75.
After switching, she noticed immediate improvements: messages sent instantly, her school’s LMS app worked reliably, and she could record short videos for student feedback. While the interface took some getting used to, the larger screen helped her read assignments more easily. For her needs, the upgrade was absolutely worth it—even if the A20 isn’t a “modern” phone by 2024 flagship standards.
Is the Upgrade Worth It in 2024? A Practical Checklist
Before deciding, ask yourself the following:
- Are you unable to install critical apps? Banking, messaging, healthcare, or work tools failing to run is a strong sign to upgrade.
- Does your phone restart randomly or freeze frequently? Aging hardware degradation affects reliability.
- Is battery life under 4 hours screen-on time? Diminished battery severely limits usability.
- Do you need better photo quality? Whether for IDs, receipts, or family moments, improved cameras help.
- Can you afford $75–$100? Refurbished A20s are cheap, but consider long-term costs like chargers or cases.
What You Gain
- Larger, more usable screen
- More reliable app performance
- Better battery life
- Modern camera for everyday use
- Access to current mobile websites and services
What You Don’t Gain
- Long-term software support (neither device receives updates)
- High-performance gaming or multitasking
- Premium build quality or water resistance
Frequently Asked Questions
Will the Galaxy A20 get Android 12 or higher?
No. Samsung confirmed the A20’s final update was Android 11. No further official upgrades are planned. Custom ROMs exist but are not recommended for average users due to security and stability risks.
Can I transfer my data from iPhone 6 to Galaxy A20?
Yes. Use Samsung Smart Switch via Wi-Fi or a PC. Contacts, messages, photos, and calendars can be migrated. Note: Some iMessage threads may appear as failed SMS unless converted before transfer.
Is the Galaxy A20 secure in 2024?
It runs outdated software, so security vulnerabilities exist. Avoid storing sensitive data, use strong passwords, enable Google Play Protect, and avoid downloading apps from unknown sources.
Final Verdict: Yes, But With Caveats
Upgrading from an iPhone 6 to a Galaxy A20 in 2024 is absolutely worth it—if your expectations are realistic. You’re not getting a future-proof device, but you are stepping into a world where apps work, messages send quickly, and the screen doesn’t feel cramped.
The A20 won’t impress tech enthusiasts, but for someone struggling with a nearly decade-old iPhone, it offers tangible improvements in usability, communication, and peace of mind. Think of it not as buying a “great phone,” but as escaping a device that’s holding you back.
If your iPhone 6 is your primary tool for work, education, or staying connected with family, the upgrade pays for itself in reduced frustration and increased functionality.
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