My iPhone Journey: From the iPhone 5 to the iPhone 17
13+ years with Apple's flagship smartphones
I've been an iPhone user since 2012, starting with the iPhone 5, and I'm now enjoying my current model, the iPhone 17. I still have most of my old iPhones in my collection. But this might be nearing the end of my Apple journey as I also picked up a Samsung Flip 8 in 2026 and am impressed at how far Android has leaped ahead of Apple. Now with a 3rd CEO Ternus...I'm not expecting much innovation from Apple and its stagnated since the last big leap with the iPhone X.
The iPhone Timeline
| Year | Model | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2012 | iPhone 5 | All-time favorite — perfect size and sleek design |
| 2016 | iPhone 6s | 4-year upgrade cycle |
| 2020 | iPhone 11 | 4-year upgrade cycle |
| 2022 | iPhone 14 Pro | 2-year cycle — Pro design echoes the iPhone 5 |
| 2024 | iPhone 16 | Lighter, slimmer, USB-C — now work phone |
| 2025 | iPhone Air | Current daily driver — Apple finally got it right |
| 2026 | iPhone 17 | Need better battery life, 120 Hz refresh screen |
Upgrade Strategy
Initially, I was upgrading every four years, but the release of the iPhone 14 Pro prompted me to upgrade just two years after purchasing the iPhone 11. My previous habit of buying older models two years post-release made me consider investing in the latest technology for a longer-term experience — aiming for 4–5 years with each new phone.
My strategy is to save money in the long run by upgrading less frequently. I plan to hold off on my next upgrade until 2026–2027, although I might consider buying new models every two years if attractive deals arise. I'm particularly inclined to wait for the 20th anniversary of the iPhone in 2027.
Favorite iPhone
My favorite model remains the iPhone 5. Its perfect size and sleek design have left a lasting impression, influencing my choice of the iPhone 14 Pro, which resembles the 5.
Upgrading to the iPhone 16
I've opted for the iPhone 16. One of my main reasons for this upgrade was to find something lighter than my 14 Pro. I expect this model will serve me well for the next 3–5 years.
iPhone Air as New Daily Driver
With the need to keep my work and personal life separated, I'm purchasing an iPhone Air to become my new daily driver and transfer my iPhone 16 to become my next work phone.
iPhone 17 for better battery
Work provided me a Samsung Flip 8 and while I planned to use the 16, the screen refresh is actually a problem and I'm used to 120 Hz now, but the ancient A32 5G is no longer usable so it was good timing to get a Flip 8 for work.
The Air battery is insufficient and the poor refresh rate of the 16 limited to a Pro model until Apple finally improved the 17 base model with 120 Hz and a 6.3" screen making it the clear winner. A 256GB memory bump also is nice.
When looking at the Air side-by-side with the Flip 8....I hope Apple someday considers making a clamshell style model and not just a passport folder with the soon to be released Apple Duo; but weight seems to be a concern and the Samsung Fold 8 seems a better composition.
But I will say....Samsung has improved and the Flip 8 already has me questioning the Apple ecosystem.
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