A recent study conducted by Consumer Intelligence Research Partners (CIRP) has once again highlighted a notable trend in the smartphone market: iPhone users tend to hold onto their devices for longer than their Android counterparts.
The study, released on Wednesday, revealed that approximately one-third of new phone buyers who previously owned an iPhone kept their device for three years or more. This contrasts sharply with Android users, where only 21% of new phone buyers reported using their device for three years or more.
CIRP attributes this difference to several factors. Firstly, iPhones are generally perceived as more durable, which could contribute to their longer lifespan. Additionally, Apple’s transparent installment payment plans might make users less inclined to upgrade frequently. Lastly, the study suggests that Apple’s less frequent introduction of must-have new features encourages users to stick with their existing iPhones.
The study also found that only around one-third of iPhone owners retire a device that is less than two years old. In contrast, a significant 57% of retired Android phones are less than two years old. This suggests that Android users, who have the flexibility to switch between manufacturers and often invest less in their devices, might be more receptive to new features and upgrade their devices more frequently.
This trend of iPhone users holding onto their devices longer aligns with previous findings. Last year, CIRP also noted that iPhone users in the US upgrade their devices less frequently than Android users. Further reinforcing this trend, a November 2023 survey by Piper Sandler found that nearly 9 out of 10 teenagers in the US either already own an iPhone or plan to buy one next. Earlier this year, in February, CIRP reported that 13% of Android users switched to iPhone in 2023.
Apple and Samsung continue to dominate the US smartphone sales market. In the first quarter of 2024, they held 52% and 31% market share respectively, according to Statista. Other players like Lenovo (9%) and HMD (2%) follow closely. Meanwhile, Google, the developer of the open-source Android operating system, remains a niche player in the US market.
The findings of this study underscore the strong brand loyalty that Apple enjoys in the smartphone market. The company’s focus on building durable devices, transparent payment plans, and carefully curated feature updates appears to be paying dividends in terms of user retention and market share. This suggests that Apple’s strategy of prioritizing user experience over constant innovation is resonating with consumers and contributing to the longevity of their devices.
