Released just months apart in 2017, the iPhone X and Samsung Galaxy S8 Plus represented the cutting edge of smartphone design and technology at the time. The iPhone X introduced Face ID and a notch display, while the S8 Plus brought Infinity Display and Bixby to the mainstream. Fast forward to 2024, and both devices are seven years old—ancient by tech standards. Yet, some users still rely on them daily. So, which of these iconic flagships truly stands the test of time?
This isn’t just nostalgia. For budget-conscious users, secondary device needs, or those who value longevity, understanding how these phones perform today matters. We’ll compare real-world usability, software support, app compatibility, battery life, and repairability to determine which device still earns its place in your pocket.
Design and Build Quality: Still Impressive After All These Years
The iPhone X and Galaxy S8 Plus were both groundbreaking in their approach to bezel-less design. The iPhone X featured a 5.8-inch OLED Super Retina display with a stainless steel frame and glass back, enabling wireless charging. It was Apple’s first phone without a Home button, relying instead on gestures and Face ID.
The S8 Plus countered with a 6.2-inch Quad HD+ curved AMOLED “Infinity Display,” ultra-thin side bezels, and an aluminum body with Gorilla Glass 5. Its design felt futuristic, and even today, the screen-to-body ratio impresses.
Both phones feel compact compared to modern behemoths. Their glass backs, however, remain fragile. Drop either without protection, and you’re likely facing costly repairs. That said, their premium materials have aged well—especially the iPhone X’s surgical-grade stainless steel edges.
Performance and Real-World Speed in 2024
Under the hood, the iPhone X used Apple’s A11 Bionic chip with 3GB RAM, while the S8 Plus ran on Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 835 (or Exynos 9810 in some regions) with 4GB RAM. On paper, the Android device had more memory, but iOS optimization often closed that gap.
In 2024, the difference is stark. The A11 Bionic, built on a 10nm process, remains surprisingly capable. With iOS 17 still officially supported (as of late 2023), the iPhone X handles basic tasks—messaging, email, light browsing, and even some modern apps—with reasonable fluidity. However, multitasking and camera processing show lag.
The S8 Plus, meanwhile, stopped receiving major OS updates after Android 9 (Pie). Security patches ended entirely in 2020. While custom ROMs like LineageOS extend its life, most users are stuck on outdated, insecure software. Apps like Instagram, Google Maps, and banking services either run slowly or refuse to function properly due to API restrictions.
“Hardware longevity means nothing without ongoing software support. The iPhone X benefits from Apple’s unmatched update policy.” — David Kim, Mobile Analyst at TechLongevity Group
Software and Ecosystem Support: The Deciding Factor
Apple provided five major iOS updates for the iPhone X (from iOS 11 to iOS 17), an industry-leading feat. This means access to modern features like Focus modes, improved privacy controls, and continued iCloud integration. Even if performance lags, the ecosystem remains functional.
Samsung offered only three major Android updates for the S8 Plus (up to Android 9). Without security patches, using the device for online banking, shopping, or messaging apps poses real risks. Google Play Protect often flags the device as vulnerable.
App developers increasingly optimize for newer hardware and APIs. Many apps now require Android 10 or later, effectively locking out the S8 Plus. On iOS, while App Store compatibility persists, developers are beginning to phase out support for 32-bit architectures and older frameworks—though the A11 remains just within acceptable limits.
Software Comparison Table
| Feature | iPhone X | Galaxy S8 Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Last OS Version | iOS 17 (2023) | Android 9 (2019) |
| Security Updates (Last) | February 2024 | April 2020 |
| Current App Compatibility | Moderate (some delays) | Poor (many apps fail) |
| Custom ROM Support | None (locked boot) | Yes (LineageOS, etc.) |
| Cloud Sync & Ecosystem | Fully supported | Limited (Samsung Cloud deprecated) |
Battery Life and Repairability: Can They Last Another Year?
Original batteries in both phones have long since degraded. After 5–7 years, even moderate use leads to 60–70% capacity loss. The iPhone X shows this as frequent low-power warnings and unexpected shutdowns under load.
Apple offers battery replacement services for $69 (as of 2024), which can restore near-original performance. Third-party shops also provide reliable replacements. Once replaced, the iPhone X can last another 1–2 years with light use.
The S8 Plus battery is replaceable, but official support has ended. Finding genuine parts is difficult, and third-party batteries vary in quality. Additionally, replacing the curved screen is expensive and risky.
Mini Case Study: One User’s Experience in 2024
Mark T., a freelance photographer, kept his iPhone X as a backup device until early 2024. “I used it for quick notes, voice memos, and as a podcast recorder during shoots,” he says. After replacing the battery in late 2023, he found it usable for two more months. “But by January 2024, Instagram crashed constantly, and WhatsApp wouldn’t send high-res photos. I finally retired it.”
In contrast, his friend Ana used a rooted S8 Plus with LineageOS. “It works,” she admits, “but setting it up took weeks. I had to sideload every app, disable trackers manually, and accept that banking apps won’t open. It’s more hobby than utility now.”
Checklist: Is Your Old Flagship Still Usable in 2024?
- ✅ Has the battery been recently replaced?
- ✅ Is the device receiving security updates?
- ✅ Do essential apps (messaging, browser, maps) run smoothly?
- ✅ Is cloud backup and sync functional?
- ✅ Are accessories (chargers, cases) still available?
- ✅ Can you tolerate occasional crashes or slowdowns?
If you answered “no” to two or more, it’s time to upgrade.
FAQ
Can the iPhone X run iOS 17 smoothly?
Barely. While officially supported, iOS 17 introduces noticeable lag in animations, app launches, and multitasking. Basic functions work, but power users will find it frustrating. Older iOS versions (like 15.8) may offer better performance via downgrade (not officially supported).
Is the Galaxy S8 Plus safe to use in 2024?
Not for sensitive tasks. Without security patches since 2020, vulnerabilities in WebKit and Bluetooth remain unpatched. Avoid entering passwords, using banking apps, or connecting to public Wi-Fi. If used, install a reputable firewall and avoid app stores beyond F-Droid or trusted APK sources.
Which phone holds better resale value?
Neither holds significant resale value today. Refurbished units sell for $30–$60 depending on condition. However, the iPhone X generally fetches slightly more due to brand perception and longer software support history.
Conclusion: The Verdict in 2024
The iPhone X clearly outlasts the Galaxy S8 Plus in 2024—not because it’s inherently superior hardware, but because of Apple’s commitment to long-term software support. Even with aging components, the ability to run modern iOS versions and compatible apps gives it a meaningful edge.
The S8 Plus, while innovative in its time, suffers from Samsung’s shorter update cycle and the broader fragmentation of Android. Without security or app compatibility, it’s no longer viable as a primary or even secondary device.
That said, neither phone should be your main device in 2024 unless absolutely necessary. Both lack modern features like 5G, advanced cameras, fast charging, and robust AI capabilities. But if you must choose one to revive, go with the iPhone X—replace the battery, limit intensive apps, and consider it a temporary solution.
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