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The iPhone 6s, released in September 2015, remains one of Apple’s most iconic and enduring smartphones. A decade later, it continues to spark curiosity among tech enthusiasts, budget-conscious buyers, and collectors. But how does the iPhone 6s hold up in 2025? Is it still a viable daily driver, or has it been rendered obsolete by modern standards?

This comprehensive guide dives deep into the iPhone 6s’s technical specifications, real-world performance, and its place in today’s smartphone landscape. We’ll compare it to newer models, analyze its strengths and weaknesses, and help you decide if it’s worth buying or keeping in 2025.

Key Takeaways: iPhone 6s in 2025

Legacy Hardware: The iPhone 6s introduced groundbreaking features like 3D Touch, a 12MP camera, and the Apple A9 chip. While these specs were cutting-edge in 2015, they now face limitations with modern apps and iOS updates.
Software Support: The iPhone 6s officially supports up to iOS 15, but as of 2025, it no longer receives major updates or security patches. This limits app compatibility and exposes users to potential security risks.
Performance: For basic tasks—calls, messaging, and light browsing—the iPhone 6s remains functional. However, it struggles with resource-intensive apps, gaming, and multitasking.
Market Position: Priced as low as ₹15,750 in India and under $100 in global markets, the iPhone 6s is a budget option, but newer models like the iPhone 11 or 12 offer far better value for a small premium.
Best For: Secondary phones, children, seniors, or travelers who need a simple, reliable device without advanced features.

iPhone 6s Technical Specifications: A Detailed Breakdown

The iPhone 6s was a powerhouse in its prime. Here’s what it offers in 2025:

Display: 4.7-inch Retina HD (1334 x 750 pixels, 326 PPI). While small by today’s standards, the display remains sharp and color-accurate, though it lacks HDR and OLED contrast.
Processor: Apple A9 chip with 2GB RAM. The A9 was a significant upgrade over the A8, but it now lags behind modern chips like the A13 (iPhone 11) or A16 (iPhone 14).
Storage: Available in 16GB, 32GB, 64GB, and 128GB variants. The base 16GB model is impractical for modern use due to limited space for apps and media.
Camera: 12MP rear camera with 4K video recording and a 5MP front camera. The camera still takes decent photos in good lighting but lacks Night Mode, Portrait Mode, and advanced computational photography.
Battery: 1715 mAh. Most units in 2025 will have degraded battery health, requiring frequent charges or a replacement.
Connectivity: 4G LTE, Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 4.2, and NFC (for Apple Pay). No 5G or Wi-Fi 6 support.
Build: Aluminum 7000 series body with Ion-strengthened glass. Durable but heavier and thicker than modern iPhones.
Biometrics: Touch ID (1st generation). Fast and reliable, but lacks the convenience of Face ID.
Operating System: iOS 15 (last supported version). No access to iOS 16 or later, meaning missing features like Live Text, Focus Modes, and improved privacy controls.

Performance in 2025: Can the iPhone 6s Keep Up?

In 2025, the iPhone 6s is a mixed bag. For light users, it handles essential tasks without major issues. However, its limitations become apparent in several areas:

App Compatibility: Many popular apps (e.g., WhatsApp, Instagram, banking apps) have dropped support for iOS 15 or require newer versions. Some apps may not install or update, while others run sluggishly.
Multitasking: With only 2GB of RAM, the iPhone 6s struggles with multiple apps open. Background apps refresh slowly, and switching between them often leads to reloads.
Gaming: Older or casual games (e.g., Candy Crush, Temple Run) run fine, but modern titles (e.g., PUBG, Call of Duty Mobile) are unplayable due to lag and overheating.
Battery Life: A new battery can restore some endurance, but expect 4–6 hours of screen-on time with mixed usage. Heavy users will need to charge multiple times a day.
Security: Without ongoing iOS updates, the iPhone 6s is vulnerable to exploits. Apple occasionally releases security patches for older devices, but these are not guaranteed.
Heat Management: The A9 chip can overheat during prolonged use, especially when recording 4K video or running demanding apps.

Experts agree: while the iPhone 6s is still usable for niche purposes, it’s no longer suitable as a primary phone for most users. As Forbes contributor Ben Patterson noted, “The iPhone 6s represents the last truly long-lived budget iPhone. Its ability to run iOS 15 gave it a five-year effective lifespan—impressive by any standard. But in 2025, even this model crosses into ‘collector’s item’ territory rather than practical tool.”

iPhone 6s vs. Modern Smartphones: How Does It Compare?

To understand the iPhone 6s’s place in 2025, let’s compare it to two popular budget alternatives: the iPhone 11 and iPhone 12.

iPhone 6s vs. iPhone 11

Performance: The iPhone 11’s A13 Bionic chip is up to 3x faster than the A9, with significantly better power efficiency and support for iOS 17.
Display: The iPhone 11 features a 6.1-inch Liquid Retina LCD with True Tone, offering better brightness and color accuracy.
Camera: Dual 12MP cameras with Night Mode, Portrait Mode, and 4K video at 60fps. The iPhone 6s’s single 12MP camera pales in comparison, especially in low light.
Battery: The iPhone 11’s 3110 mAh battery lasts nearly twice as long as the iPhone 6s, even with heavy use.
Price: The iPhone 11 starts at around $140, making it a far better value for the performance and longevity it offers.

iPhone 6s vs. iPhone 12

5G Support: The iPhone 12 includes 5G connectivity, future-proofing it for faster networks.
OLED Display: The iPhone 12’s Super Retina XDR OLED screen delivers deeper blacks and higher contrast.
Design: The iPhone 12’s flat-edge design is more modern and durable, with Ceramic Shield for improved drop resistance.
MagSafe: The iPhone 12 supports MagSafe accessories, adding versatility for charging and mounts.

For just $30–$70 more than a used iPhone 6s, the iPhone 11 or 12 provides a dramatically better experience, with longer software support and modern features.

Who Should Buy an iPhone 6s in 2025?

While the iPhone 6s is outdated for most users, it still serves specific needs:

Budget Buyers: If your budget is under $100, the iPhone 6s is one of the cheapest iPhones available. However, consider saving for an iPhone SE (2020) or iPhone 11 for a more future-proof option.
Children or Seniors: Its simple interface and compact size make it ideal for first-time users or those who prefer a smaller phone.
Secondary Phone: Useful as a backup device for calls, music, or travel. Its small size and lightweight design are convenient for on-the-go use.
Collectors/Nostalgic Users: The iPhone 6s holds sentimental value for many Apple fans and is a piece of tech history.
Developers/Testers: Useful for testing apps on older iOS versions or for jailbreaking projects.

As smartphone expert Neil Shah (Counterpoint Research) puts it, “Devices like the iPhone 6s serve niche roles today—useful for light, controlled use cases, but nowhere near recommended for mainstream users.”

Current Market Price and Deals (December 2025)

As of December 2025, the iPhone 6s is available at the following price points:

India: ₹15,750–₹29,990, depending on storage and condition. The best deals are often found on Amazon or Flipkart.
USA/Europe: $80–$150 for a used unit in good condition. Prices vary based on storage and battery health.
Global: Prices range from $70–$120, with 32GB models being the most common.

Before purchasing, check the battery health (Settings > Battery > Battery Health) and ensure the device is unlocked if buying secondhand.

Pros and Cons of the iPhone 6s in 2025

Pros:

Affordable entry into the iOS ecosystem.
Compact and lightweight design.
Touch ID is fast and reliable.
Decent camera for basic photography.
Strong build quality with aluminum body.

Cons:

Outdated hardware struggles with modern apps.
No iOS updates beyond iOS 15.
Poor battery life (replacement recommended).
No 5G, Wi-Fi 6, or advanced camera features.
Limited app compatibility and security risks.

Pro Tips for iPhone 6s Users in 2025

Replace the Battery: A new battery can significantly improve performance and longevity. Apple and third-party services offer replacements for around $50–$70.
Optimize Storage: Use iCloud or offload unused apps to free up space. Avoid the 16GB model if possible.
Use Lite Apps: Switch to lightweight alternatives (e.g., Facebook Lite, Messenger Lite) to reduce strain on the processor.
Disable Background App Refresh: Go to Settings > General > Background App Refresh and turn it off for non-essential apps.
Enable Reduce Motion: Settings > Accessibility > Motion > Reduce Motion. This reduces animations and improves responsiveness.
Avoid iOS Updates: Since the iPhone 6s is stuck on iOS 15, avoid installing unnecessary updates that may slow it down further.
Use a Case and Screen Protector: The iPhone 6s is prone to scratches and dents. A good case can extend its lifespan.
Factory Reset: If the phone feels sluggish, perform a factory reset to clear clutter and restore performance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is the iPhone 6s still worth buying in 2025?

Only if you need a very cheap secondary phone or have specific use cases (e.g., for a child or senior). For most users, spending a little more on an iPhone 11 or 12 is a smarter investment.

Can the iPhone 6s run WhatsApp in 2025?

As of late 2025, WhatsApp no longer supports iOS 15, so the iPhone 6s cannot run the latest version of WhatsApp. Consider alternatives like Telegram or Signal.

Does the iPhone 6s support 5G?

No, the iPhone 6s only supports 4G LTE.

How long will the iPhone 6s last?

With proper care (battery replacement, light usage), the iPhone 6s can last another 1–2 years as a secondary device. However, its usability will continue to decline as apps and services drop support for iOS 15.

Can I upgrade the storage on an iPhone 6s?

No, the iPhone 6s does not support expandable storage. Choose a higher storage variant if you need more space.

Is the iPhone 6s waterproof?

No, the iPhone 6s is not water-resistant. Avoid exposure to liquids.

What is the best alternative to the iPhone 6s in 2025?

The iPhone SE (2020) or iPhone 11 offer the best balance of price, performance, and longevity for budget-conscious buyers.

Conclusion

The iPhone 6s was a revolutionary device in 2015, but by 2025, it has been surpassed in nearly every way by modern smartphones. While it remains a nostalgic favorite and a viable option for very light use, its outdated hardware, lack of software support, and limited app compatibility make it a poor choice as a primary phone.

For most users, upgrading to an iPhone 11, iPhone 12, or even the iPhone SE (2020) is the best way to enjoy a fast, secure, and future-proof iOS experience without breaking the bank. If you’re considering the iPhone 6s for its affordability, weigh the long-term costs of limited functionality and potential security risks. For collectors, tech enthusiasts, or those needing a simple secondary device, the iPhone 6s still holds charm—but its days as a practical daily driver are numbered.