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During the recent WWDC 2021 global developer conference, alongside the focus on iOS 15, iPadOS 15, and new MacOS versions, Apple made a significant announcement allowing users to remain on older iOS versions while still receiving security updates for their iPhones.
So, what does this mean and how does it impact us as users? Let's delve deeper into this article to find out.
Apple and the impressive statistics related to updating iOS are commendable
During each event introducing a new operating system version or even during iPhone generation launches, Apple always prides itself on having a successful adoption rate for the latest iOS version.
According to AppleInsider, Apple's iOS updates tend to be swiftly deployed because they are easy to install and support many older iPhone models. After being released in mid-September last year, iOS 14 achieved a download rate of nearly 50% among iPhones within 6 weeks of its launch.
Statistical report from Mixpanel. Source: Mixpanel.As of early April 2021, data shows that the adoption rate of iOS 14 stands at 90.54%. Among the remaining active iPhones, Mixpanel estimates that 4.85% are still running iOS 13, while 4.62% are using older versions.
Statistical report from Mixpanel. Source: Mixpanel.If we compare, iOS 14 was released on September 16, 2020, while Android 11 was released on September 8, 2020. However, data from Android Authority as of March 2021 indicates that Android 11 is currently installed on only about 20% of Android phones in the US market.
Continuous iOS updates, long-lasting but not everyone's cup of tea
One remarkable aspect of Apple is their long-term support for iPhones, with devices like the iPhone 6S still receiving updates even at six years old, up to iOS 15.
However, while the capability to update is there, the actual user experience is another matter. It's not just iPhone 6S users; even those with iPhone 7 or 8 Series are starting to complain about performance degradation, battery drain, software bugs, etc., when upgrading to the latest iOS versions.
As a result, many opt to stick with older iOS versions, but Apple consistently reminds users to update. Sometimes, you might just go to sleep and wake up to find your device updated overnight, without even having a chance to intervene.
If you stick with an old iOS version for too long, you might occasionally encounter app compatibility issues, prompting you to update.
That's why Apple's latest move allows users to continue using older iOS versions until they feel ready to upgrade to the new iOS, which can be seen as catering to users' preferences.
Doing so, does it lead to fragmentation like Android manufacturers face?
In my opinion, no. Firstly, the number of Apple smartphones can be considered quite limited because the company only sells flagships, releasing an average of 3 to 4 models per year, whereas Android OEMs target various segments with dozens of models launched annually.
Not to mention, users who prefer not to upgrade will still receive security patches, so Apple can easily 'take care' of older devices.
Secondly, because Apple controls the core of the iOS operating system, it can deliver fast updates, ensuring synchronization across all device models.
On the other hand, Android OEMs have to rely on Google's new Android source code, then customize and extensively test it before it reaches users.
Apple's new approach can be seen as respecting users; they have the right to choose and determine the fate of their iPhones.
If you seek stability, stick to the older versions. But if your iPhone still packs a punch, why not upgrade to enjoy the latest features from the 'Bitten Apple'?
What's your take on Apple's move? Leave your comments below for us to know!
Read more:
- All About Apple WWDC 2021: Upgrades in iOS, iPadOS, macOS,...
- Top 5 Highlights from WWDC, check it out to stay updated!
