How to make the most of and retire your obsolete iPhone

Retire your obsolete iPhone

It's no secret that at some point, our technological devices, including our phones, can become obsoleteThis can happen for a number of reasons: lack of support for new updates, performance issues, or even manufacturer decisions. But before you rush to declare your iPhone obsolete, there are many things you can do with it. How about we take advantage of that forgotten technology?

From options of responsible recycling From ideas for prolonging its usefulness, this article thoroughly explores all the possible alternatives for “retiring” your obsolete iPhone. Plus, there are possibilities for compensation if you meet certain criteria, making it a good idea to think before you discard it.

What does it mean when an iPhone is declared obsolete?

Options for an obsolete iPhone

The term “obsolete” doesn’t just mean that your device has gotten older. In Apple’s case, An iPhone is declared "obsolete" when they have passed seven years since its last official sale. This implies that no longer receives technical support or software updates, including security patches, or in other words, although the device may continue to function, it will not have any official support for repairs or software problems.

For example, models like the iPhone 6 Plus, released in 2014, have recently been declared obsolete. This limits its functionality significantly, as the lack of security updates makes it an easy target for hacks and security issues. compatibility with current applications.

What to do with an obsolete iPhone?

Before you throw your iPhone into the trash bin, you should know that there are numerous ways to continue using it or, at least, dispose of it responsibly:

  • Emergency number: An old iPhone can make a perfect backup phone. It's ideal for activities where you might damage your main phone, such as sports or risky travel.
  • Media player: You can use it as a dedicated player in your car or at home. Connect it via Bluetooth or an auxiliary cable and you have an excellent music device.
  • First phone for the youngest: If you have young children or grandchildren, an old iPhone can be a good starting point for teaching them responsible use of technology.
  • Video Calling Device: Place your iPhone in a stand and use it for video calls with apps like FaceTime, Skype, or Zoom.

Recycling options and exchange programs

recycling obsolete iPhone

Another interesting alternative is to take advantage of the exchange programs or recycling offered by companies like Apple and authorized resellers. At Apple, you can hand in your old device to be recycled responsibly. Some companies like rossellimac they even offer discounts on the purchase of a new device in exchange for your old iPhone.

Recycling is not only an environmentally responsible choice, but it also helps reduce waste. electronic waste, a growing problem worldwide.

Compensation in cases of planned obsolescence

compensation for planned obsolescence

Planned obsolescence is a hot and controversial topic. Many times, manufacturers design their devices to have a limited useful life period.

In the case of Apple, class action lawsuits have been filed against the company in several countries, including Spain, alleging that Apple limited the performance of models such as the iPhone 6 through undocumented software updates, forcing users to upgrade their device sooner than necessary.

If you have an iPhone 6, 6 Plus, 6s, or 6s Plus, you may be eligible for a compensation, with compensation ranging from €99 to €189, depending on whether you replaced the battery or not and the original purchase price of the device.

One of the main organizations leading these initiatives is the OCU in Spain, which allows you to join this class action at no cost.

How to know if your iPhone is affected

obsolete Apple devices

In addition to class action lawsuits, it is important to check if your specific model is included in the list of affected devices.

Apple regularly releases updates on which of its products have been declared “obsolete” or “vintage.” In the case of the iPhone 6 Plus, for example, it was labeled “obsolete” in September 2021 and stopped receiving support entirely in 2024.

If your device is on the list, we recommend taking steps to secure any valuable information stored on it and consider the usage or recycling options mentioned above.

Deciding what to do with an obsolete iPhone requires careful thought. Even if it is no longer fit for its core functions, with a little creativity or through exchange programs, it can still offer value and also, if you think you have been affected by planned obsolescence practices, do not forget to explore the possible avenues of compensation, which may recover a peak of the investment you had made in your iPhone.


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