Which new Smart Phone to Buy?

[cordenny]

I will be needing a new smart phone soon. I currently have an Apple iphone 7 Plus. It will no longer be eligible for updates. I love the phone, but I dread spending so much money on a new Apple iphone. I have heard that they are more secure.
Just curious to see what you may have and if you are happy with it.

[Love2Swim]

I think the iPhone 13 model is good bang for the buck right now. Love mine. I see no reason for me to upgrade to the 14.

[Davonu]

I think the iPhone 13 model is good bang for the buck right now. Love mine. I see no reason for me to upgrade to the 14.
Same for me on all counts.

[PoolBrews]

The Google Pixel 6a is a fantastic phone at a fraction of the price of the Apple. Currently $399 on amazon, but with Black Friday coming up, you'll find it for around $299 at most places.

[retiredguy123]

I will be needing a new smart phone soon. I currently have an Apple iphone 7 Plus. It will no longer be eligible for updates. I love the phone, but I dread spending so much money on a new Apple iphone. I have heard that they are more secure.
Just curious to see what you may have and if you are happy with it.
I have never owned an Apple product. I would buy the top of the line Samsung S22 Ultra with a stylus. I love the stylus instead of using your finger. I think that any claims that an IPhone is more secure than an Android is hogwash. Of course, the Apple cult followers will disagree.

[Stu4206]

I will be needing a new smart phone soon. I currently have an Apple iphone 7 Plus. It will no longer be eligible for updates. I love the phone, but I dread spending so much money on a new Apple iphone. I have heard that they are more secure.
Just curious to see what you may have and if you are happy with it.

I second the Samsung S22 Ultra with a stylus. As for Apple being more secure it's because your locked into apples playground. I've never had any security issues with my android phones.

[Altavia]

A key avantage to stay with iPhone is all your info and app's will transfer automatically.

[billethkid]

The "latest updates" game is planned obsolescence....as long as the phone still functions as intended, for me, there is no need/desire to have a new phone.

[Two Bills]

When my I Phone6 was made redundant, some years ago.I purchased a reconditioned I Phone SE for a few hundred dollars.
Still works fine, and does all the things I require of a phone.
Can't see the point in spending big bucks to make Apple richer.

[daniel200]

Iphone is my choice …

anything android (including samsung) is google based and sharing your info with google

Since you are happy with your iphone, get another. Your data transfers easily and you will not have to go through the learning curve of learning android. I would never own a google phone because there entire business model depends entirely on harvesting and selling your personal data. (And that is why they sell their hardware at discounts)

Your iphone 7 has a 5.5 inch display. The iphone 13 mini ($599) has a 5.4 inch display. And the iphone 13 ($699) has a 6.1 inch display. Both are great phones. In my opinion, no need to look at iphone 14

[Keefelane66]

I will be needing a new smart phone soon. I currently have an Apple iphone 7 Plus. It will no longer be eligible for updates. I love the phone, but I dread spending so much money on a new Apple iphone. I have heard that they are more secure.
Just curious to see what you may have and if you are happy with it.
I’m an iPhone person switched to Android 2 years ago and am back again to iPhone 22 6SE

[JRcorvette]

If you like the iPhone then stick with an iPhone… you already know how to use it and it talks to your other Apple devices if you have any.

[Pondboy]

I will be needing a new smart phone soon. I currently have an Apple iphone 7 Plus. It will no longer be eligible for updates. I love the phone, but I dread spending so much money on a new Apple iphone. I have heard that they are more secure.
Just curious to see what you may have and if you are happy with it.

If money is the issue, go to your carrier i.e Verizon. I got an I Phone SE ( replaces the 7) for free last year. I have a 2 year contract but net,net there was no additional charge. I agree that it’s more convenient to stay with the brand that you have.

[njbchbum]

Got an Iphone SE2020 - doesn't do 5G but who cares - there aren't enough 5G towers all over to guarantee service! - 4G works fine!

[Inexes@aol.com]

One thing to factor into your decision making process...... age..... I wanted to replace my Samsung phone a few years ago. Not out of necessity, just wanted a different phone. I looked at the prices, figured in my age and thought... why purchase a new, high-priced phone at this age? Why not try a refurbished one? Went to eBay, found exact model I wanted at a fraction of the price of new and purchased it. I have had it over 3 years and never have I had a single glitch with the phone. Came boxed, with all accessories, just like new. Not a mark on the phone, appeared brand new also. Best decision I ever made.

[Hardlyworking]

Another option is to try Swappa.com. No junk phones, every phone must meet certain criteria to be sold on the site. I’ve bought many phones, tablets and laptops there. Never had a bad transaction. Sold some stuff as well.

[smurphy]

Got an Iphone SE2020 - doesn't do 5G but who cares - there aren't enough 5G towers all over to guarantee service! - 4G works fine!

All 5g phones are downward compatible. If a 5g tower is not available, it will automatically drop down to 4g for that call. No need to change any settings.

[Nucky]

I am an Appleaholic. I have the latest and greatest of everything. iPhone 14 Pro Max & a 13 Pro Max.

Tomorrow my new Apple Ultra Watch is coming in from Amazon. Saved a couple of bucks and zero financing for 18 months instead of 24 months from Apple.

Bite the bullet, you only live once. No more Samsung after several appliance dilemmas! It's my little way of evening the score, They don't know it but I do. FaceTime with the grandchildren is fantastic.

[njbchbum]

All 5g phones are downward compatible. If a 5g tower is not available, it will automatically drop down to 4g for that call. No need to change any settings.

Well that makes me wonder why my neighbors and friends around town are having such problems connecting to their Verizon 5G connections. This town doesn't even have FIOS - and have been told that it will not get it in the future!

[smurphy]

Well that makes me wonder why my neighbors and friends around town are having such problems connecting to their Verizon 5G connections. This town doesn't even have FIOS - and have been told that it will not get it in the future!

Although 5g is much faster that the previous technologies, it doesn't travel as far. Thus it needs more towers per square mile to cover a given area. Block walls will also slow it down. It depends where you are located.

You will never see FIOS in the already built areas of the Villages. They added FIOS in my neighborhood up north. They had to tunnel a cable under everyone's front lawn and driveway. It was quite the project. Don't think it would ever get approved here plus the economics are not there, large cost to implement with a limited potential for new customers. The only place where it could possible happen is in a new section where the utilities have not yet gone in.

[coralway]

A few months ago I updated from the iPhone 6+ to the iPhone 13 Pro Max. Loved the 6+, but it did not support the latest apps. Love the Pro Max, an amazing device. Still learning everything about iOS 16

[Altavia]

.

You will never see FIOS in the already built areas of the Villages. They added FIOS in my neighborhood up north. They had to tunnel a cable under everyone's front lawn and driveway. It was quite the project. Don't think it would ever get approved here plus the economics are not there, large cost to implement with a limited potential for new customers.

The only place where it could possible happen is in a new section where the utilities have not yet gone in.

They've been installing fiber to the post South of 44 to new Villaged homes for over 3 years now.

[Nucky]

Well that makes me wonder why my neighbors and friends around town are having such problems connecting to their Verizon 5G connections. This town doesn't even have FIOS - and have been told that it will not get it in the future!

5G works perfectly on the Xfinity Network but only when I'm at Publix. If you don't have 5G you are not missing NOTHING. :angel:

[bowlingal]

I have an 13 now, bought new. Bought it at the new Consumer Cellular store a Lake Sumter. Billing me payments....no large outlay of cash. No finance charges. Great customer service too. Heard of problems with the 14, so I went with the 13. Very happy. Any questions or problems just go back to the store for help. They have lots of choices of phones to pick from. Great reception, clarity everywhere. Great article on page A20 in today's Daily Sun on the new stores, both in Lake Sumter and Brownwood.

[oneclickplus]

I will be needing a new smart phone soon. I currently have an Apple iphone 7 Plus. It will no longer be eligible for updates. I love the phone, but I dread spending so much money on a new Apple iphone. I have heard that they are more secure.
Just curious to see what you may have and if you are happy with it.

You don't say WHY you need a new phone soon. Is it in physically bad condition? If that is the issue, you can solve this problem inexpensively. If you like your iPhone 7, you can keep your iPhone 7. Just pick up an excellent condition, unlocked, refurbished iPhone 7 on eBay for about $100-$120. I still carry two iPhone SE (the original ones) and they do everything I need. These models are new enough that they all can update to the latest IOS. So, they can run all the apps you might need.

If the issue is something other than physical condition driving your need for a new phone, please elaborate.

[Viperguy]

Best Buy sells refurbished Apple phones on line. Stay with Apple, you know it and everything transfers especially if you have an icloud account.

[Sparky365]

When Apple releases it's new Iphone I have waited a month or so and purchased the previous model refurbed, unlocked, from Amazon or Ebay. I saved a few hundred dollars.

[Marcojb]

We just purchased an iphone 12 from an iphone 6 for the wife, trying to minimize any of the doo dads!! anyways to go below the iphone 12 is a mistake. I since learned from the Apple salesperson that next year the 4G network will be non-existent, You have to go to a 5G phone and that begins with the iphone 12 otherwise you will need a new phone

[Rwirish]

I spoke with personnel at two different local phone stores. Both stated the Apple is more secure then a Samsung phone.

[Two Bills]

We just purchased an iphone 12 from an iphone 6 for the wife, trying to minimize any of the doo dads!! anyways to go below the iphone 12 is a mistake. I since learned from the Apple salesperson that next year the 4G network will be non-existent, You have to go to a 5G phone and that begins with the iphone 12 otherwise you will need a new phone

Nonsense.
Same sales spiel as no new homes south of 466!!

[La lamy]

I'm in the same scenario as OP. For those wondering why the need to change, it no longer can update and most apps won't work on it anymore. My WhatsApp has conked out, many apps won't load and definitely can't stream anything on it. I appreciate all the comments which will help me decide what's next for me too.

[westernrider75]

I will be needing a new smart phone soon. I currently have an Apple iphone 7 Plus. It will no longer be eligible for updates. I love the phone, but I dread spending so much money on a new Apple iphone. I have heard that they are more secure.
Just curious to see what you may have and if you are happy with it.

I have an iPhone 13. Love it. Bought directly from Apple store.

[Garyinfl]

:bowdown:try Amazon to buy an older phone. Amazon is the only Apple authorized seller of discounted iPhones

[Nana2Teddy]

I think the iPhone 13 model is good bang for the buck right now. Love mine. I see no reason for me to upgrade to the 14.
I’ve had the 13 Pro since it’s release and agree it’s a good phone (and in my case a great camera which is mostly what I use it for, lol), and likely a better price than I paid now that there’s a newer model available.

[tuccillo]

I think you mean the 3G networks, which, depending on the carrier, have already been shut down or will be soon. 4G will be around for probably another 10 years. Buying an older phone that does not support 5G will not be an issue.

We just purchased an iphone 12 from an iphone 6 for the wife, trying to minimize any of the doo dads!! anyways to go below the iphone 12 is a mistake. I since learned from the Apple salesperson that next year the 4G network will be non-existent, You have to go to a 5G phone and that begins with the iphone 12 otherwise you will need a new phone

[Bridget Staunton]

We just purchased two iPhone 12 I didn’t want to pay $1000 for 13 or 14. If you’re a veteran you get 10% discount. We stick with with apple because our families are in Ireland and we call free anytime for any length

[Philipd411]

Your Refurbished (Super) Market | Back Market (https://www.backmarket.com/en-us)

As to android vs apple. I worked for verizon wireless for several years. IOS is easier to use and more stable overall. Android is much more flexible as an OS.

[macawlaw]

My son, an engineering major, switched from iPhone to droid at his dad’s encouragement. The changeover had lots of glitches - and he’s pretty tech savvy. I have an iPhone 7 for personal use and a droid for work. I will update the iPhone when I have to, as I much prefer it to the droid.

[B-flat]

I have never owned an Apple product. I would buy the top of the line Samsung S22 Ultra with a stylus. I love the stylus instead of using your finger. I think that any claims that an IPhone is more secure than an Android is hogwash. Of course, the Apple cult followers will disagree.

There is a simple problem. Android phones are made by many manufacturers, all manufacturers do NOT update the software on the phones on a timely basis. Apple not only makes the phones but they also write the software and update the phones on a regular basis. I've seen many a senior Android users be very confused and have trouble navigating Android phones. iPhones are easier and more user-friendly.

[imalowany]

I have never owned an Apple product. I would buy the top of the line Samsung S22 Ultra with a stylus. I love the stylus instead of using your finger. I think that any claims that an IPhone is more secure than an Android is hogwash. Of course, the Apple cult followers will disagree.

Actually Apple owned they own software and hardware yes it’s more secure and unlike Android that made by Goggle a company that sells your information like what you do with your phone when you use the internet on it etc, Apple doesn’t which is why Facebook (and others) is having such a hard time now (besides alll the meta mess). It’s been documented for years that apple have had much less security issues than android.

[Ameliafay]

My family members have both. Our experience shows that IPhone is much easier to use for seniors that are not tech savvy. I also agree that refurbished are a good savings. You can try Apple.com or Amazon and many other sources for refurbished phones.

[sowilts]

JRcorvette provided the best advice. If you know all the functions don’t change. All can be hacked. 😳

[rsmurano]

Like I tell my friends, apple is the only “smart phone” made. Not only does apple provide the best technology, the best cameras, and the best eco system meaning your iPhone works with your Apple Watch, Mac, and iPads, something other vendors can’t do (keychain is replicated, messages/mail/browser info is dynamically updated).
We just signed up with T-Mobile and got $800 off of a new iPhone 14, which didn’t matter if you had an existing phone that was worth much less. If you switch carriers once in a while, you can get good trade in values

[carlsondg]

I will be needing a new smart phone soon. I currently have an Apple iphone 7 Plus. It will no longer be eligible for updates. I love the phone, but I dread spending so much money on a new Apple iphone. I have heard that they are more secure.
Just curious to see what you may have and if you are happy with it.
Get an iPhone 12 or 13. If you think you're going to live two years, often times, your carrier will supply the iPhone for "free."

[Paula]

I will be needing a new smart phone soon. I currently have an Apple iphone 7 Plus. It will no longer be eligible for updates. I love the phone, but I dread spending so much money on a new Apple iphone. I have heard that they are more secure.
Just curious to see what you may have and if you are happy with it.

With any major purchase, we always get the mostest for the leastest!!!

[Bill14564]

You have spent a lot of time learning how to use your iPhone and setting it up just the way you like it. That was my reason for staying with Apple in the past and I don't see the reason changing anytime soon.

What does Android have to offer to draw you away from all that you have invested in the Apple environment? Are the latest Samsung's really that much less expensive than the latest iPhones?

You don't need to get the most recent version but get something rather close. I would suggest the 12. You will need to get used to working without the "home" button but you'll get used to that in a short time.

IOS and the Apple appstore are more secure than Android or Google, no question. However, careless users and motivated hackers can defeat that added security. You will be okay with either platform if you follow safe practices. The Apple platform will protect you a little more from your own unsafe actions.

[Dilligas]

I will be needing a new smart phone soon. I currently have an Apple iphone 7 Plus. It will no longer be eligible for updates. I love the phone, but I dread spending so much money on a new Apple iphone. I have heard that they are more secure.
Just curious to see what you may have and if you are happy with it.
Your decision should be made based on your cell phone use. If you only use it for calling and texting/r emails, it doesn’t matter. Any are ok. If you use smart features for internet, any financial transactions, online purchase, then Apple is the choice (for its security features). You can get new older models at less cost, and buy used older models online even less price. Most carriers offer deals on current models, but nothing is free (you pay for it in the contract terms). Remember, you get what you pay for.

[HeleneK]

If you wear hearing aids, go with an iphone. I've always been an Android user, but was quite unhappy with my last phone because of the quality of the call (difficulty hearing), especially when not connected to bluetooth. When upgrading last year I decided to go with an iphone, and I'm SO happy! With my hearing aids (Octicon), I am immediately connected to any calls with bluetooth and I don't have to wear any additional bluetooth connecting device. The same goes with watching videos or listening to music on my iphone. I have iphone 13 basic model. My spouse's Samsung 21 actually cost more than my iphone.

[nhtexasrn]

I will be needing a new smart phone soon. I currently have an Apple iphone 7 Plus. It will no longer be eligible for updates. I love the phone, but I dread spending so much money on a new Apple iphone. I have heard that they are more secure.
Just curious to see what you may have and if you are happy with it.
I have the Iphone 13 Pro Max and I love it!! I like a bigger screen and this is the same size as my old 6splus. Try going to the AT&T store and see what deals they can make you.

[Berwin]

My wife and I have iPhone 12s and they are OK. I much prefer the Android OS and have several Android tablets but then I'm an IT professional and love how I can manually manipulate the file system. I can pop out the SD card (which iPhones don't support), pop it in my laptop and copy music and video files over directly without having to go through iTunes.

[PurePeach]

My husband and I both have the Apple SE and love them. They are smaller, the size of the iPhone 5S, making them much easier to carry. They are only a little over a year old, so have close to the latest technology. We are Apple folks, so we like having the info shared with all devices, e.g. text messages.

[jpvillager]

I to had a 7+ I loved. Our son, a lawyer said if you do financials such a banking you want a phone that gets updates for the security. Went with a refurbished 12 and it works great. A word of caution, don't mess with it until you do the automatic transfer.

[New Englander]

Like I tell my friends, apple is the only “smart phone” made. Not only does apple provide the best technology, the best cameras, and the best eco system meaning your iPhone works with your Apple Watch, Mac, and iPads, something other vendors can’t do (keychain is replicated, messages/mail/browser info is dynamically updated).
We just signed up with T-Mobile and got $800 off of a new iPhone 14, which didn’t matter if you had an existing phone that was worth much less. If you switch carriers once in a while, you can get good trade in values

After your $800 discount, how much was the phone?

[Pairadocs]

I will be needing a new smart phone soon. I currently have an Apple iphone 7 Plus. It will no longer be eligible for updates. I love the phone, but I dread spending so much money on a new Apple iphone. I have heard that they are more secure.
Just curious to see what you may have and if you are happy with it.

Never been an Apple fan, so my experience may not be of value, but... I just bought a new Motorola G model for much less than $400. I have always had Samsung, and in particular got addicted to the Samsung Note models with the e pens. However, the outrageous price of the high end Samsung's prompted me to do a LOT of shopping and personal inspection. Just 4 weeks ago I bought the Motorola G and now, in retrospect, I don't understand why I, and so many others, pay the prices we do. This phone is fabulous, I will never use all of the amazing functions it is capable of.... jot hand written notes on the screen, or on photos you take, and then instantly, at a touch, turn your own "scribbling" into neatly types text ! Priceless ... LOL.. as the Amex ads on TV say... priceless ! No more $1200 and $1600 phones for me, thankfully I really took the time for once to see all that is available. Who would have thought... Motorola ?

[tvbound]

Having been one of the first people my company gave cell phones to over 25 years ago (oh joy, but still better than a beeper), I find it ironic that the latest 'smart-phone' thing is like that old Motorola StarTAC I had - a 'flip phone.' lol

As for the question, I've been happy with Samsung for many years and don't plan on changing over to Apple.

[Redsmom]

I'm in the same scenario as OP. For those wondering why the need to change, it no longer can update and most apps won't work on it anymore. My WhatsApp has conked out, many apps won't load and definitely can't stream anything on it. I appreciate all the comments which will help me decide what's next for me too.

I have no problem so far with my Apple 7+. All the apps work as normal and I have gotten no notices that I can no longer update it. I bought this phone about three years ago for $150 online, refurbished. So I’m wondering what’s different about my phone…?

[Hardlyworking]

I have no problem so far with my Apple 7+. All the apps work as normal and I have gotten no notices that I can no longer update it. I bought this phone about three years ago for $150 online, refurbished. So I’m wondering what’s different about my phone…?

You won’t get anymore iOS updates.

iPhone models compatible with iOS 16 - Apple Support (https://support.apple.com/guide/iphone/supported-models-iphe3fa5df43/ios)

[Villages Kahuna]

No question, an iPhone in whatever size you like.

[jump4]

I will be needing a new smart phone soon. I currently have an Apple iphone 7 Plus. It will no longer be eligible for updates. I love the phone, but I dread spending so much money on a new Apple iphone. I have heard that they are more secure.
Just curious to see what you may have and if you are happy with it.

Google Pixel 6a or 7. Superior to iPhone in many ways include blocking of spam calls and texts! Very secure.

[Chi-Town]

Samsung Galaxy Note 20 Ultra

[Two Bills]

I am an Appleaholic. I have the latest and greatest of everything. iPhone 14 Pro Max & a 13 Pro Max.

Tomorrow my new Apple Ultra Watch is coming in from Amazon. Saved a couple of bucks and zero financing for 18 months instead of 24 months from Apple.

Bite the bullet, you only live once. No more Samsung after several appliance dilemmas! It's my little way of evening the score, They don't know it but I do. FaceTime with the grandchildren is fantastic.

Everyone should have at least one expensive penchant.
Mine is Cashmere. I just love good Cashmere.
My eldest grandson has the same disease, but he doesn't buy his own, he pinches mine! :laugh:

[PoolBrews]

Iphone is my choice …

anything android (including samsung) is google based and sharing your info with google

Of all the reasons to stay with Apple, this is by far the most inaccurate. There are a number of reasons to go with either Apple or Android, but regardless of which one you get you will be either sharing a certain amount of data with either Apple or Google.

The default amount is nearly everything - the assistants (Siri and Google) will listen and capture all types of data. Both phones collect a great deal of information including location. You can control to a great degree what they collect, but you can control it to a far greater degree and depth on Android. Apple iOS is great, but is extremely locked down when it comes to user control. (Which is why it is generally easier to use for non-techy folks.)

[PoolBrews]

If you wear hearing aids, go with an iphone. I've always been an Android user, but was quite unhappy with my last phone because of the quality of the call (difficulty hearing), especially when not connected to bluetooth. When upgrading last year I decided to go with an iphone, and I'm SO happy! With my hearing aids (Octicon), I am immediately connected to any calls with bluetooth and I don't have to wear any additional bluetooth connecting device. The same goes with watching videos or listening to music on my iphone. I have iphone 13 basic model. My spouse's Samsung 21 actually cost more than my iphone.

If your hearing aids have bluetooth then they will connect to ANY bluetooth phone - not just Apple (that includes Apple, Android, Windows, etc). It has nothing to do with a specific brand of phone. You may have to go through some initial startup steps (connecting to bluetooth, making it default, etc), but they will work with any current phone on the market.

Everyone is always looking at Samsung vs Apple, because both phones are +$1,000. Google Pixel phones offer the same quality and even several features neither Samsung or Apple offer at 1/2 the price.

[tuccillo]

Misleading statement. In reality, Apple makes several different iPhones. You can buy a new iPhone with 5G capabilities for $429.

If your hearing aids have bluetooth then they will connect to ANY bluetooth phone - not just Apple (that includes Apple, Android, Windows, etc). It has nothing to do with a specific brand of phone. You may have to go through some initial startup steps (connecting to bluetooth, making it default, etc), but they will work with any current phone on the market.

Everyone is always looking at Samsung vs Apple, because both phones are +$1,000. Google Pixel phones offer the same quality and even several features neither Samsung or Apple offer at 1/2 the price.

[retiredguy123]

Misleading statement. In reality, Apple makes several different iPhones. You can buy a new iPhone with 5G capabilities for $429.
Samsung makes 5G phones that are a lot less expensive $400.

[charlieo1126@gmail.com]

I’m about to buy a new iPhone what I’m concerned about is will all my information change over , when I called Verizon they said they would show me how to do it but not do it, I am not a big tech guy I don’t even have a computer, but I’m worried about my WhatsApp, some apps I have and contacts. I’m thinking about going to apple store at mall in Orlando I’ve heard they’ll do it for you.

[tuccillo]

When you get the new phone, go through the Quick-start procedure. You put the old phone next to the new phone and the contents will be copied over via Bluetooth. There are other ways. You can google it.


I’m about to buy a new iPhone what I’m concerned about is will all my information change over , when I called Verizon they said they would show me how to do it but not do it, I am not a big tech guy I don’t even have a computer, but I’m worried about my WhatsApp, some apps I have and contacts. I’m thinking about going to apple store at mall in Orlando I’ve heard they’ll do it for you.

[edtherock]

Check amazon for a Refurbished- Renewed / Unlocked I Phone. Guaranteed with warranty.
You can get an iphone 11 for around $300-400 bucks.
All things Apple transfer over and being unlocked will work with any provider.