Iphone 7 Vs Galaxy A8 Plus In 2024 Is It Even Worth Comparing

In 2024, the idea of comparing an iPhone 7 and a Galaxy A8 Plus might seem like revisiting ancient tech history. Both devices launched over half a decade ago—Apple’s iPhone 7 in 2016 and Samsung’s Galaxy A8 Plus in 2018. Yet, in some parts of the world, these phones still circulate as budget options or backup devices. The question isn’t just about specs anymore; it’s about practicality. Can either device handle modern apps, security updates, or daily use in 2024? And more importantly, does this comparison hold any relevance today?

The answer isn't a simple yes or no. While neither phone belongs in the flagship conversation, understanding their current capabilities reveals broader insights about smartphone longevity, software support, and what \"usable\" really means in today’s digital landscape.

Performance and Hardware: A Reality Check

The iPhone 7 was powered by Apple’s A10 Fusion chip—a groundbreaking processor in 2016. Even by 2024 standards, its architecture remains efficient due to Apple’s tight hardware-software integration. Paired with 2GB of RAM, it ran iOS smoothly for years. However, newer versions of iOS have increasingly strained its resources. As of 2024, the iPhone 7 maxes out at iOS 15.8.1, meaning it lacks critical features like Live Text, improved Focus modes, and advanced privacy tools introduced in iOS 16 and beyond.

On the other side, the Galaxy A8 Plus came with Samsung’s Exynos 7885 or Snapdragon 660 (depending on region), 4GB of RAM, and a 3,000mAh battery. On paper, it had more RAM and a larger screen than the iPhone 7. But Android’s less optimized ecosystem, combined with heavier UI layers, meant it never felt as snappy as the iPhone despite higher specs.

Tip: If you're still using either device, disable animations, background app refresh, and auto-updates to preserve responsiveness.

Software Support and Security: The Lifeline of a Phone

This is where the comparison starts to tilt heavily. Apple supports its devices with major iOS updates for up to six years. The iPhone 7 received five major OS upgrades—from iOS 10 to iOS 15—making it one of the longest-supported smartphones ever. However, lacking iOS 16+ cuts off access to vital security patches and app compatibility. Many developers now require iOS 16 or later, rendering popular apps unusable or outdated on the iPhone 7.

Samsung has improved its update policy in recent years, but the Galaxy A8 Plus only received two major Android upgrades (from Oreo to Android 10) and limited security patches. By 2024, it hasn’t seen a security update in over three years. That makes it vulnerable to malware, phishing, and unpatched exploits—especially dangerous if used for banking, messaging, or browsing.

“Phones without regular security updates are ticking time bombs in terms of data risk.” — Lena Torres, Mobile Security Analyst at CyberShield Labs

Detailed Comparison: iPhone 7 vs Galaxy A8 Plus in 2024

Feature	iPhone 7	Galaxy A8 Plus
Release Year	2016	2018
Latest OS	iOS 15.8.1	Android 10 + One UI 2.5
Processor	A10 Fusion	Exynos 7885 / Snapdragon 660
Ram	2GB	4GB
Battery Capacity	1,960 mAh	3,000 mAh
Charging	Lightspeed (no fast charging)	Fast Charging Supported
Camera (Rear)	12MP f/1.8	16MP f/1.7 + 16MP f/1.9 (dual front)
Security Updates (2024)	No	No
App Compatibility	Limited (iOS 15 cap)	Poor (Google Play Services issues)

Real-World Usability Today: Who Still Uses These Phones?

Meet Raj, a small business owner in rural India who picked up a second-hand Galaxy A8 Plus in 2022 for ₹3,500 (~$42). He uses it solely for WhatsApp, calling customers, and checking bank alerts. It works—for now. But he’s noticed increasing lag, failed app logins, and pop-ups suggesting his device is “at risk.” His local repair shop told him not to install unknown apps, which limits functionality further.

Meanwhile, Maria in Lisbon keeps her iPhone 7 as a music-only device. She removed all accounts, disabled Wi-Fi, and uses it offline with synced playlists. In this narrow role, it functions perfectly. But she wouldn’t dare use it for email, maps, or shopping.

These examples show that both phones can survive—but only under strict limitations. Their usefulness depends entirely on how they’re used, not what they were designed for.

Is This Comparison Even Worthwhile in 2024?

At first glance, pitting the iPhone 7 against the Galaxy A8 Plus seems outdated. But the exercise reveals something deeper: how different ecosystems handle obsolescence.

Apple’s strength lies in long-term optimization. Even with older silicon, iOS 15 runs surprisingly well on the iPhone 7. Safari still loads most websites (though slowly), and basic productivity apps function. However, lack of future updates means it's a dead end.

Samsung’s mid-range devices from that era weren’t built for longevity. Despite better specs on paper, bloatware, inefficient memory management, and early software abandonment make the A8 Plus feel sluggish faster. Without Google Play Services running smoothly, many core Android experiences break down.

So yes, the comparison is worth having—not because either phone is competitive, but because it highlights how software support often matters more than raw hardware.

Checklist: Is Your Older Phone Still Safe to Use in 2024?

• ✅ Has it received a security update in the last 12 months?
• ✅ Can it run the latest version of essential apps (WhatsApp, Gmail, Banking)?
• ✅ Does it support two-factor authentication and modern encryption?
• ✅ Are you avoiding public Wi-Fi and third-party app stores?
• ✅ Is it used primarily offline or for limited tasks?

If you answered “no” to three or more, it’s time to consider upgrading—even to an entry-level modern smartphone.

What Should You Do Instead?

If you're relying on either of these phones in 2024, your best move is to transition to a supported device. Today’s budget smartphones—like the iPhone SE (2022), Samsung Galaxy A14, or Google Pixel 6a—offer dramatically better performance, multi-year update guarantees, and modern security frameworks.

Consider this timeline for a smooth upgrade:

1. Month 1: Back up your data—photos, messages, contacts—to iCloud or Google Drive.
2. Month 2: Test a newer device via trade-in programs or short-term rentals.
3. Month 3: Transfer accounts, enable security features (biometrics, recovery codes), and retire the old phone.

Repurpose your old device: turn it into a dedicated music player, home security camera viewer, or emergency contact tablet. Just keep it off sensitive networks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the iPhone 7 still get iMessage and FaceTime in 2024?

Yes, as long as it’s connected to Wi-Fi and signed into an Apple ID. However, newer message features like inline replies, message editing, and RCS support are unavailable.

Why does my Galaxy A8 Plus keep crashing on YouTube?

YouTube regularly updates its app to support new features and ad formats. The A8 Plus likely struggles with memory allocation and outdated APIs, causing crashes. Try using YouTube via a mobile browser instead.

Is it safe to use these phones for online banking?

No. Without current security patches, both devices are vulnerable to man-in-the-middle attacks and credential theft. Avoid entering passwords or financial details on them.

Final Thoughts: Respect the Past, Upgrade for the Future

The iPhone 7 and Galaxy A8 Plus were once solid choices in their prime. But technology moves fast. In 2024, neither device meets the minimum bar for secure, functional smartphone use. Comparing them isn’t about finding a winner—it’s about recognizing when to let go.

Smartphones are no longer just communication tools; they’re wallets, IDs, health monitors, and gateways to essential services. Using outdated devices puts your privacy and productivity at risk.

🚀 Ready to upgrade? Explore certified refurbished models or carrier trade-in deals today. Your data—and peace of mind—will thank you.