Apple Offers Users Update Option As iOS 18 Releases, CIRP Reveals Surprising Reason To Update

Highlights

• Apple is giving users the option to either upgrade to iOS 18 or stay on iOS 17.
• iOS 17.7 will focus on stability with important security patches.
• Most iPhone users will hold onto their devices for at least three years.
• S. carriers are offering significant trade-in deals to encourage upgrades.

 iOS 18 will be available from Available from 16 September (Image credit – Apple)

Scheduled to roll out on September 16, iOS 18 though promising new features might not be an immediate choice for everyone.

iOS launches are always big news. They bring new features and performance improvements and one would assume everyone wants to update to the new iOS. However, many Apple users tend to hold off upgrading immediately. Let’s understand why.

Many users believe the new operating system can have potential bugs or app compatibility issues. This is one of the primary reasons users do not want to immediately update and wait for some time.

Recognizing this, Apple this year is giving users more control when it comes to upgrading to the upcoming iOS 18 release.

 The company will continue supporting iOS 17 with security updates, which will give support to users who want to stick with it for now.

Earlier this week, Apple released the final version of iOS 18.0 for developers and public beta testers. At the same time, iOS 17.7 RC (Release Candidate) was also made available, bringing essential security patches and bug fixes, but no new features. This dual-release strategy gives users the option to either upgrade to iOS 18 or remain on the stable iOS 17.7.

When both versions become available next week users will see both options in their settings, allowing them to choose based on their needs.

Whether you want the latest features or prefer the stability of the previous version, Apple’s approach ensures a smoother, more flexible upgrade process.

In addition to iOS 18, Apple is also rolling out updates for other devices, including iPadOS 18, watchOS 11, tvOS 18, visionOS 2, and macOS Sequoia, all aimed at improving the user experience across its ecosystem.

Users Not Rushing to Upgrade iPhones, CIRP Reveals A Surprising Reason That Could Motivate Users Afterall

As the iPhone 16 is finally hitting the stands, we are reminded of Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman’s earlier prediction that a true upgrade “supercycle” might not happen until the iPhone 17 launches next year.

And now CIRP Consumer Intelligence Research Partners LLC may have figured out a surprising reason that could after all motivate users to upgrade to new iPhones.

According to a report from CIRP, most iPhone users hold onto their phones for at least three years before upgrading.

Over the past year, 34% of new iPhone buyers were replacing devices they had used for three years or longer, slightly up from 33% the previous year. On the other hand, about one-third of new phones were bought to replace devices that had been used for two years or less. This number includes both iPhones and Android smartphones.

The report also found that people aren’t necessarily upgrading because of new features like improved cameras, AI, or better battery life. Instead, the condition of their current phone plays a bigger role in the decision to upgrade.

Another reason why people are holding onto their phones longer has to do with financing.

Now about the surprising reason that can after all motivate users to upgrade – it is the U.S. carriers offering big trade-in deals.

Last year, for instance, one carrier offered a customer over $800 for their iPhone 11 Pro Max, which convinced them to upgrade to the iPhone 15 Pro Max, even though they hadn’t planned on upgrading.

CIRP expects this trend of people holding onto their phones to continue.

FAQs

What if I don’t upgrade my iPhone to iOS 18?

Apple offers the option to either upgrade to iOS 18 or stay on iOS 17 with continued security updates.

 Why do iPhone users hold onto their devices for longer periods?

Most users keep their phones for at least three years, with upgrades based on the phone’s condition rather than new features.

 What deals do U.S. carriers offer to upgrade iPhones?

Answer. US Carriers are offering significant trade-in incentives, such as $800 for older models, to encourage consumers to upgrade. Last year, for instance, one carrier offered a customer over $800 for their iPhone 11 Pro Max, which convinced them to upgrade to the iPhone 15 Pro Max, even though they hadn’t planned on upgrading.

How can you get the latest update version of iOS 18?

To update to the latest version of IOS 18 following these simple steps:

Plug your device into a power source and it’s always good to connect it to Wi-Fi for a hassle free update.

• Open the Settings
• Tap on General
• Select Software Update
• Choose the update you want to install.
• Tap Install Now

If you see Download and Install instead, tap that first to download the update, enter your passcode, and then hit Install Now.

Which are the phones which support the Apple Intelligence?

To use Apple Intelligence, you will need one of these iPhones:

iPhone 15 Pro

iPhone 15 Pro Max

iPhone 16

iPhone 16 Plus

iPhone 16 Pro

iPhone 16 Pro Max

Also Read: Apple Intelligence: AI-Powered Enhancements Boost Company Stock to Record High

Also Read: Apple to Integrate OpenAI Technology in iOS 18: Enhancing AI Features