3 | Product Review (Home Unit or Mobile Device)

Apple has been making and selling iPhones for over 18 years, with the release of the original in June 2007. Since then, they have released new iterations of the beloved device, incorporating newer features and hardware refinements with each update: camera technology, processors, display enhancements, and new user interface features. But how do older models stack up against newer versions, and are newer models worth the investment? 

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As an avid Apple product user, I've been using the iPhone 13 since 2023. This was one of my first big purchases, and I did much research before buying. One of the first iPhones I had was the iPhone SE, so I knew I wanted something with facial recognition and more camera features. The iPhone 13 had everything I wanted, without being outside my price range. 

Although an older model, this device features haptics and functions that set it apart from its earlier counterparts. 

Introduced in 2021, the iPhone 13 sports a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display (excluded in the iPhone SE model), the A15 Bionic chip, and a dual-camera system with Cinematic mode (1080p at 30 fps). This means that the iPhone 13 displays a high-contrast, bright, colorful screen designed to deliver an optimal viewing experience. The iPhone 13 is also slim, intended to sit comfortably in your hand, with facial recognition for hands-free unlocking. 

Overall, my experience with the iPhone 13 doesn't leave me wanting an upgrade. Although there will come a day when I'll need to replace my phone, I'm not chasing the next big release. This phone comes fully equipped with everything I was searching for: facial recognition, a stronger battery, higher graphics––all without feeling heavy or too large. This was also one of the more budget-friendly alternatives to the newer models, providing a modern experience without the high price tag. Because of these features, I intend to wait for prices to drop on the newer phones before making my upgrade. 

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The camera quality still holds up as well. I'm not someone who constantly takes pictures, but I was searching for a phone that offered better quality than what the iPhone SE was giving me. Because of the dual cameras, my photos are now captured in higher quality. 

But that isn't to say the iPhone 13 isn't without its faults. It is an older model, meaning that Apple will soon begin limiting its performance as the built-in lithium battery ages. Because iOS versions cycle every 5-8 years, this means that new features may not be accessible. While I'm not sure when this will happen, I have noticed that my battery life doesn't last as long as it did when I purchased the phone two years ago. 

The iPhone 13 also lacks many of the latest features that its successors sport. Compared to the iPhone 17 (released in September 2025), the iPhone 13 doesn't have as many technological features. Upgrading would offer massive improvements––with the iPhone 17 featuring a 120Hz ProMotion Display, Always-On compatibility, a 48MP main camera, an A19 chip, USB-C connectivity, and longer battery life. 

But because I've been living without these features, I'm not actively wishing for them.  

At the end of the day, upgrading is a personal choice on what works best for the individual. The iPhone 13 still meets my needs, performs reliably, and delivers the features I originally invested in. I'll eventually need to upgrade, but I'll come to that decision when iOS no longer supports iPhone 13 or my device begins to slow down. Ultimately, the iPhone 13 still holds up against its successors, delivering a modern, reliable experience.