In 2024, smartphones are faster, smarter, and more connected than ever. Yet some users still rely on devices released nearly a decade ago. The Samsung Galaxy S6, launched in 2015, stands as one of the most iconic Android phones of its era—sleek design, vibrant display, solid camera for its time. But how does it fare against a later-generation device like the Google Pixel 3 (2018), and is it truly unreasonable to keep using an S6 today?
The answer isn’t just about specs. It’s about usability, security, app compatibility, and daily convenience. Let’s break down the realities of clinging to legacy hardware in a world that has moved on.
Hardware Comparison: A Generational Gap
The Galaxy S6 and Pixel 3 represent two distinct eras in smartphone evolution. While both were flagship devices in their day, the technological leap between them is significant.
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S6 | Google Pixel 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Release Year | 2015 | 2018 |
| Processor | Exynos 7420 (14nm) | Qualcomm Snapdragon 845 (10nm) |
| RAM | 3GB | 4GB |
| Storage Options | 32/64/128GB (no expandable) | 64/128GB (no expandable) |
| Battery Capacity | 2550mAh | 2915mAh |
| Charging | Fast charging (wired only) | Fast charging + wireless charging |
| Display | 5.1” Quad HD Super AMOLED | 5.5” Full HD+ OLED |
| Rear Camera | 16MP f/1.9 | 12.2MP f/1.8 (with AI processing) |
| Front Camera | 5MP | 8MP dual-camera (wide-angle) |
| Software at Launch | Android 5.0 Lollipop | Android 9 Pie |
| Last Official Update | Android 7.0 Nougat (2017) | Android 12 (end-of-life reached) |
The Pixel 3 benefits from newer architecture, better efficiency, and improved thermal management. Its Snapdragon 845 outperforms the Exynos 7420 by over 60% in CPU benchmarks and nearly double in GPU tasks. This translates to smoother multitasking, quicker app launches, and better handling of modern applications.
Software & Security: The Hidden Cost of Aging Devices
One of the most critical factors in smartphone longevity isn’t performance—it’s security. The Galaxy S6 stopped receiving official security updates in 2017. That means over seven years without patches for known vulnerabilities.
In contrast, the Pixel 3 received monthly security updates until late 2021 and feature updates through 2022. Even though it’s no longer supported, its last firmware was significantly more secure than the final S6 build.
“Using an unsupported phone in 2024 is like driving a car with expired brakes—functional, but increasingly risky.” — Marcus Tran, Mobile Security Analyst at CyberShield Labs
Modern apps, especially banking, messaging, and cloud services, now enforce minimum OS requirements. Many no longer install on Android versions below 8.0. Google Play Protect often blocks installations on outdated systems, citing security risks.
Even if the S6 powers on and connects to Wi-Fi, essential services may simply refuse to work. WhatsApp dropped support for Android 4.4 and earlier in 2020, and while the S6 runs up to Android 7.0, many features degrade over time due to lack of optimization.
Real-World Usability: Can the S6 Still Function?
To understand whether using an S6 today is “crazy,” consider a real example.
Mini Case Study: Alex’s Daily Commute
Alex, a freelance writer, has used his Galaxy S6 since 2016. He replaced the battery twice and uses a protective case. His usage is light: email, web browsing, occasional notes, and music streaming.
In early 2023, he noticed Gmail became sluggish. Chrome frequently crashed on complex pages. By mid-year, Google Maps failed to load satellite view consistently. In January 2024, his banking app refused to open, displaying: “This device is not secure.”
He switched to a refurbished Pixel 3 purchased online for $80. Immediately, app responsiveness improved. Google Assistant worked reliably. Battery lasted a full day. Most importantly, all financial and productivity apps functioned without warnings.
Alex wasn’t trying to cling to nostalgia—he wanted reliability. The S6 had become a liability, not a tool.
When Holding On Makes Sense (And When It Doesn’t)
There’s no universal rule. Some people successfully extend device lifespans through careful maintenance. However, practicality diminishes over time.
Checklist: Is Your S6 Still Viable in 2024?
- ✅ Does it boot reliably within 30 seconds?
- ✅ Can you install and run core apps (Gmail, Chrome, WhatsApp, banking)?
- ✅ Is the battery life sufficient for half a day without charging?
- ✅ Are you able to connect to modern Wi-Fi networks (WPA3) and Bluetooth 5.0+ devices?
- ❌ Are you seeing frequent crashes, freezes, or app incompatibility?
- ❌ Has your carrier discontinued LTE support for older bands?
If three or more items check out negatively, upgrading is not just advisable—it’s necessary for digital safety and functionality.
Why the Pixel 3 Is a More Realistic Budget Option Today
The Pixel 3, despite being five years old itself, remains far more capable than the S6 in 2024. Why?
- Better software foundation: Designed for Project Treble, enabling smoother updates and longer support.
- Superior camera processing: Google’s HDR+ and Night Sight deliver excellent photos even in low light—something the S6 can’t match, regardless of sensor quality.
- Longer battery cycles: With proper care, many Pixel 3 units still retain 70–80% battery health.
- Active community support: XDA Developers and similar forums continue to release mods, security fixes, and performance tweaks.
On secondhand markets, both phones sell for under $100, but the Pixel 3 offers better value per dollar when considering actual usability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I still get apps on the Galaxy S6?
Some basic apps will install, but many—including major banking, ride-sharing, and social media platforms—now require Android 8.0 or higher. You may encounter errors during installation or limited functionality within apps.
Is it dangerous to use an outdated phone?
Yes. Without security patches, your device is vulnerable to malware, phishing attacks, and data theft—especially when accessing sensitive accounts. Public Wi-Fi use increases these risks significantly.
What should I do with my old S6?
You have options: repurpose it as a dedicated music player, smart home controller, or digital photo frame. Alternatively, recycle it responsibly through programs like Samsung’s Trade-In or local e-waste centers.
Conclusion: Practicality Over Sentimentality
Using a Galaxy S6 in 2024 isn’t inherently “crazy”—but it is impractical for most users. Technology evolves not just in speed, but in ecosystem integration, security standards, and user expectations. The Pixel 3, while also aging, bridges the gap between affordability and functionality far better than a nearly decade-old device.
If you rely on your phone for communication, productivity, or financial tasks, continuing with unsupported hardware introduces unnecessary friction and risk. There’s dignity in extending a device’s life, but there’s wisdom in knowing when to move on.
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