Iphone 6s Plus Vs Samsung S8 Plus Why Are People Still Using The Iphone

In an age where flagship smartphones are replaced every year with faster processors, higher-resolution cameras, and sleeker designs, it’s surprising to see users still clinging to older devices. The iPhone 6s Plus, released in 2015, and the Samsung Galaxy S8 Plus, launched in 2017, represent two different generations of mobile technology. Yet, many people continue to use the iPhone 6s Plus despite the availability of more advanced options—even compared to a device like the S8 Plus that offered significant improvements in screen size, design, and features. So, why do so many remain loyal to Apple’s aging giant?

The answer lies not just in brand loyalty or nostalgia, but in a combination of long-term usability, software support, ecosystem integration, and real-world reliability. While the Samsung S8 Plus was technologically superior on paper, the enduring appeal of the iPhone 6s Plus reveals deeper truths about what users value in a smartphone.

Durability and Build Quality That Lasts

One of the most frequently cited reasons for continued use of the iPhone 6s Plus is its exceptional build quality. Constructed with aerospace-grade aluminum and strengthened by Apple’s custom 7000-series alloy after early \"bendgate\" concerns, the device proved resilient in everyday use. Unlike some modern phones that feel fragile despite glass backs and premium materials, the 6s Plus was built to survive drops, pocket wear, and years of heavy handling.

Many users report their 6s Plus lasting five years or more with minimal degradation. This kind of longevity is rare in today’s smartphone market, where even high-end devices often show battery wear or structural fatigue within three years.

Tip: Avoid third-party chargers—using genuine Apple accessories helps preserve battery health and extends device lifespan.

iOS Support and Long-Term Software Updates

Apple’s commitment to long-term software updates sets it apart from most Android manufacturers. The iPhone 6s Plus received iOS updates all the way up to iOS 15, which was released in 2021—six years after the phone’s debut. In contrast, the Samsung Galaxy S8 Plus stopped receiving major OS updates after Android 9 (Pie), with security patches ending shortly thereafter.

This means that even as newer iPhones were released, 6s Plus owners could access modern features like App Library suggestions, improved privacy controls, and enhanced Siri functionality through incremental iOS updates. For users who don’t need cutting-edge hardware, staying current on software ensures continued compatibility with apps, banking tools, and communication platforms.

“Apple’s update policy effectively gives older devices a second life. A 6s Plus on iOS 15 performs better than a new budget phone out of the box.” — David Lin, Mobile Analyst at TechLongevity Group

Performance Versus Real-World Needs

While the Samsung S8 Plus featured a superior Infinity Display, faster Snapdragon 835 chipset (or Exynos 8895), and IP68 water resistance, real-world usage doesn’t always demand peak performance. For millions of users whose primary tasks include texting, calling, browsing social media, checking email, and watching videos, the A9 chip inside the iPhone 6s Plus remains surprisingly capable.

Apple’s tight hardware-software integration allows even older processors to run efficiently. Apps are optimized for iOS across multiple generations, meaning the 6s Plus can handle WhatsApp, Instagram, Google Maps, and YouTube without constant lag—especially if storage isn’t filled beyond 80% capacity.

iPhone 6s Plus vs Samsung S8 Plus: Key Comparison

Feature	iPhone 6s Plus	Samsung Galaxy S8 Plus
Release Year	2015	2017
Operating System	iOS 9 → iOS 15 (6 updates)	Android 7 → Android 9 (3 updates)
Processor	Apple A9	Snapdragon 835 / Exynos 8895
Rear Camera	12 MP, f/2.2	12 MP, f/1.7, OIS
Battery Life	~24 hours mixed use	~18–20 hours mixed use
Water Resistance	No official rating	IP68
Last Security Update	Late 2022	Mid 2020
Ecosystem Integration	Fully compatible with AirPods, iCloud, Find My	Limited to Samsung account & SmartThings

Ecosystem Lock-In and Seamless Integration

For many iPhone users, switching isn’t just about the phone—it’s about leaving behind an entire ecosystem. Owners of MacBooks, iPads, Apple Watches, or AirPods benefit from seamless handoff, universal clipboard, iMessage continuity, and iCloud syncing. These integrations create a frictionless experience that few Android alternatives match.

A user with a 6s Plus can still receive calls on their MacBook, start an email on their iPad, and finish it on their phone. They can unlock apps with Face ID on newer devices while maintaining login sync via iCloud Keychain. Even with outdated hardware, the continuity of service keeps them within Apple’s walled garden.

In contrast, while Samsung offers strong integration between its own devices (DeX, Smart Switch, Samsung Cloud), cross-platform flexibility is limited. Users invested in Google services may find Android more open, but they lose the polished cohesion Apple delivers across devices.

Mini Case Study: Maria’s Reluctant Upgrade

Maria, a 58-year-old school administrator from Portland, has used her iPhone 6s Plus since 2016. She travels frequently for conferences, relies on Notes and Reminders for scheduling, and uses her iPad daily for lesson planning. When her battery began degrading in 2021, she considered upgrading—but hesitated.

“I tried a friend’s Galaxy S20,” she said. “It was faster, sure, but I missed iMessage. My family group chat would turn green. My AirPods took longer to connect. And my calendar didn’t sync right for days.”

Instead of switching ecosystems, Maria replaced the battery at an Apple Store for $49. Two years later, she’s still using the same phone—on iOS 15—with no plans to upgrade. “It does everything I need. Why spend $1,000 when this works?”

Cost Efficiency and Environmental Considerations

Another factor driving continued use of the iPhone 6s Plus is cost. Many users own the device outright, having paid it off years ago. With no carrier contract, there’s little financial incentive to upgrade. Repairing the battery or replacing a cracked screen costs a fraction of a new phone.

Additionally, growing awareness around electronic waste has led environmentally conscious users to extend device lifespans. Keeping a phone for six or seven years reduces e-waste and carbon footprint associated with manufacturing. According to a 2022 Greenpeace report, extending smartphone life by two years cuts lifecycle emissions by up to 30%.

Tip: Enable Low Power Mode and reduce motion effects to improve responsiveness on older iPhones.

Checklist: How to Extend Your iPhone 6s Plus Lifespan

• Replace the battery if health drops below 80%
• Keep iOS updated to the latest supported version
• Offload unused apps to free up storage
• Use iCloud to back up data regularly
• Disable background app refresh for non-essential apps
• Turn on Auto-Brightness and Reduce Motion for smoother performance
• Avoid exposing the phone to extreme temperatures

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the iPhone 6s Plus still run modern apps?

Yes, most mainstream apps—including WhatsApp, Gmail, Zoom, and banking apps—still support iOS 12 through iOS 15, which the 6s Plus can run. However, some newer apps or updates may drop support for older devices over time.

Is the iPhone 6s Plus secure to use in 2024?

While Apple stopped issuing security updates for the 6s Plus in late 2022, the device remains relatively safe if used cautiously. Avoid downloading untrusted apps, clicking suspicious links, or entering sensitive information on public Wi-Fi. For basic use, risk is low but not zero.

Why choose an old iPhone over a new Android phone?

Users prioritize ecosystem consistency, long-term software support, familiarity, and cost savings. For those not chasing specs, the iPhone 6s Plus offers proven reliability without recurring upgrade costs.

Conclusion: Value Beyond Specifications

The persistence of the iPhone 6s Plus in everyday use isn’t a failure of progress—it’s a testament to thoughtful design, consistent software support, and the power of integrated ecosystems. While the Samsung Galaxy S8 Plus was objectively more advanced at launch, its shorter update cycle and weaker long-term viability left many users seeking stability elsewhere.

People aren’t holding onto the iPhone 6s Plus because it’s the fastest or most beautiful phone—they’re using it because it works. It connects reliably, receives timely updates, integrates seamlessly with other Apple products, and continues to meet essential needs without forcing upgrades.

💬 Are you still using an iPhone 6s Plus—or another long-serving device? Share your story, tips, or reasons for holding on. Your experience might inspire others to rethink constant upgrades and embrace sustainable tech habits.