THE UNSEEN REALITY OF iPHONES: LOOK BEYOND THE INITIAL PRICE TAG

Look beyond

TWO DEVICES, ONE STARTING PRICE

My trusty iPhone 8 Plus continues to perform admirably after nearly 7 years of faithful service (it celebrates its 7th birthday in September).

I purchased it for €809 back in 2017, the same price as the Samsung Galaxy S8 released in the same year.

iPhone 8+

These are two high-end smartphones from reputable brands, one running iOS and the other Android.

The Samsung Galaxy S8, crafted by Samsung Electronics, debuted on March 29, 2017, hitting the shelves on April 21, 2017. Initially equipped with Android Nougat (7.0), it later received an update to Android Oreo (8.0) in the first half of 2018. However, the Galaxy S8 received its final security update in May 2021.

Galaxy S8

THE IPHONE 8’S UPDATES CONCLUDED IN 2023

Launching with iOS 11, it was later upgraded to iOS 16 in 2022 and received its last security patch (up to September 2023).

Despite passing through several hands, returning to mine slightly worn and with cracks, it continues to function flawlessly.

WHEN WE DIVIDE ITS PRICE BY YEARS OF SERVICE, UP TO 2023…

It averages €115.57 per year.

Currently, it’s performing well, but it’s likely already susceptible to vulnerabilities that won’t receive further patches. Its regular usage cycle has reached its end.

BEYOND THE INITIAL COST, THIS IS THE REALITY OF iPHONES: EXEMPLARY SUPPORT FOR 6 YEARS AND DURABILITY

iPhone 8+

With a few more years of operation until essential apps cease updating on iOS 16.

Its overall cost is lower than that of a €400 mid-range smartphone receiving updates for only 3 years, such as the OnePlus 8T, for instance.

What about the competition?
It appears that Samsung and Google have recognized the consumer demand for extended support over the years.

Moreover, this approach promotes sustainability and enhances resale value, should you choose to part with it.

THE UNDERSIDE OF ANDROID TABLETS (THAT ISN’T DISCUSSED): SECURITY SUPPORT AND UPDATES

The dark side

SUPPORT FOR TABLETS, ESPECIALLY LOW-END ANDROID, IS LACKING

In my quest for articles regarding the almost non-existent updates for Android TABLETS, I’ve found little to no information available online. It’s a topic that seems to fly under the radar, yet there’s a substantial problem at hand.

Cheap Android tablets USUALLY LACK IN UPDATES OR SECURITY PATCHES, while mid-range ones (such as my Lenovo Tab P11 5G) struggle to update from their current Android version, receiving only a couple of security patches annually, for a span of 2 years. I’m referring to tablets that cost more than 500€.

THE ONLY BRANDS THAT CONSISTENTLY PROVIDE UPDATES ARE GOOGLE AND SAMSUNG

However, these options are no longer budget-friendly. Google’s tablet offerings are scarce, and Samsung’s quality tablets (like the S series) come with a hefty price tag. They adhere to the same update policies as their smartphones.

Midrange Tablet

WOULD YOU OPERATE A PC WITHOUT SECURITY UPDATES OR WINDOWS/MAC UPDATES?

Most likely not.
Then why settle for an Android tablet? BECAUSE THEY’RE AFFORDABLE.

But this affordability comes at a cost. Without regular patches, your Android device becomes susceptible to security vulnerabilities, making it a prime target for exploitation. You’re also exposed to potential malware from third-party app sources.

THE LOGICAL ADVICE IS TO CHOOSE BRANDS THAT PRIORITIZE UPDATES AND SECURITY PATCHES

However, it’s tempting to opt for lesser-known, inexpensive Chinese tablets. I understand—I own several myself. Yet, it’s a gamble. At the very least, refrain from using banking apps or storing sensitive information on these devices.

Be mindful that certain apps may track and share your data with external servers for various purposes.

Another issue with these tablets is THEIR INCLUSION OF OUTDATED ANDROID VERSIONS, from the beginning, lacking the ability to manage app permissions effectively.

WHY WOULD A CALCULATOR APP REQUIRE ACCESS TO YOUR PHOTOS, LOCATION, MICROPHONE OR CAMERA? THINK TWICE.

Be vigilant about APP PERMISSIONS. Consider why apps request access to your entire photo library, your location, or even your microphone and camera. Of course, this requires having ANDROID 11 OR HIGHER.

OKAY, THE IPHONE 13 IS AT A GOOD PRICE, BUT WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES OF USING AN IPHONE?

IPhone 13

1- EVERYONE AFFIRMS THE IPHONE’S USER-FRIENDLINESS
Apple’s interface is streamlined and organized, a sharp contrast to Android’s diverse customizations across manufacturers, resulting in a more cluttered experience. The iPhone offers fewer customization options than Android.

2- IPHONE LEADS IN SECURITY
Employing the highly secure FACE ID, the iPhone stands out. It strictly permits installations exclusively from the official App Store, maintaining a more controlled environment than Android.

3- IPHONE SECURITY SUPPORT IS EXEMPLARY, REQUIRING NO USER INTERVENTION
All security and system updates are uniformly deployed to all users, and Apple’s support commitment spans over 5 years.

IPhone vs Android

4- ROBUST WARRANTIES MAKE IT THE LONGEST-LASTING SMARTPHONE WITH TOP RESALE VALUE
An iPhone remains secure and up-to-date for several years. Even if not sold, passing it on to a family member ensures continued reliability.

5- IPHONES DELIVER CONSISTENT POWER AND HOST EXEMPLARY CAMERAS
Remaining a high-end device, the iPhone sustains performance and boasts top-tier camera capabilities, even years after its initial release.

6- HIGHLY EFFICIENT AND OPTIMIZED: IPHONE 13’S IMPRESSIVE BATTERY DURABILITY
Apple’s in-house design of chips and software optimally manages power and battery efficiency, exemplified by the enduring battery life of the iPhone 13.

7- APPLE PRIORITIZES PRIVACY AND AVOIDS SELLING USER DATA
Users can prevent apps from tracking and maintain control over all permissions, emphasizing Apple’s commitment to privacy.

8- SEAMLESS INTEGRATION WITH IPAD AND APPLE WATCH
Answer calls on the iPad or Apple Watch, control the iPhone’s camera with the watch, and effortlessly transfer files to the iPad with a simple tap.

9- THE IPHONE BOASTS THE WIDEST RANGE OF HIGH-QUALITY ACCESSORIES
From chargers to cases and protectors, the iPhone accessory ecosystem offers diverse options in styles and colors catering to individual preferences.

10- MAGNETIC BACKING WITH MAGSAFE: A VERSATILE CHARGING SOLUTION
Whether in the car, at home, during travel, or with external batteries, MagSafe’s magnetic backing proves to be a versatile and convenient charging solution.

Magsafe case

LOS ARTÍCULOS SOBRE ANDROID QUE NUNCA SON POPULARES

https://computerhoy.com/tecnologia/actualizaciones-seguridad-android-son-tienen-tanta-importancia-1202478

CONOZCO DECENAS DE PERSONAS CUYO SMARTPHONE ANDROID HACE MÁS DE UN AÑO QUE NO RECIBE PARCHES DE SEGURIDAD

Y claro, nunca han leído artículos como el citado que expliquen la importancia de recibir parches de seguridad.

A la gente no le gusta oír que su DISPOSITIVO ANDROID ya está abandonado, sin soporte de seguridad. Y que eso lo convierte en un dispositivo con riesgo de ser hackeado o infectado.

Pero es la pura realidad. Muchas marcas dejan a sus dispositivos abandonados a los dos años. Y eso es muy poco tiempo para un smartphone que puede durar cuatro o cinco en funcionamiento razonablemente.

¿POR QUÉ LA GENTE NO COMPRA MARCAS QUE DEN MÁS SOPORTE, DURANTE MÁS AÑOS, HABIÉNDOLAS?

Porque el soporte es algo DE LO QUE NO SE HABLABA EN ANDROID hasta hace poco. Ahora marcas como Samsung y otras, han empezado a ofrecer varios años de soporte garantizado. Y Google ofrece hasta SIETE AÑOS DE SOPORTE EN SUS PIXEL.

¿Será el inicio de una preocupación sobre el soporte en Android?

HASTA AHORA, LA GENTE SOLO SE FIJABA EN EL PRECIO DE UN MÓVIL ANDROID

Pero los años de soporte de seguridad TAMBIEN SON PARTE DEL PRECIO. Los fabricantes no envian parches porque supone horas de programación y dinero. Pero si los clientes se decantan por marcas con más años de soporte, todas ofrecerán más.

«What tablet should I buy or gift for Christmas?»

Here are some factors to consider when comparing Android and iPad, according to COPILOT:

• Price: Apple tablets are usually more expensive than Android ones, but they offer high quality and a sleek design. If you’re looking for something more affordable, Android provides a greater variety of options, ranging from budget to premium.
• Updates: Apple tablets typically receive regular and longer-lasting updates to the iOS operating system compared to Android. This means Apple devices are better protected against vulnerabilities and have access to the latest features. Android tablets depend on the manufacturer and model for updates, and some may experience delays or never receive them, impacting performance, compatibility, and security.
• Security: Apple tablets have a closed-source operating system, making unauthorized access and malicious program installation challenging. They include built-in security measures such as data encryption, passcode or fingerprint lock, Face ID, or the T2 security chip. Android tablets have an open-source OS, allowing more customization but also posing higher risks of attacks and malware. However, Android tablets offer security options like data encryption, pattern or fingerprint lock, Smart Lock, or the Titan M chip.

• Applications: Both operating systems have a vast array of available applications, free and paid. iPad apps are generally better optimized and adapted to the tablet screen. If you want to use the same apps as on your Android phone, better compatibility is found with an Android tablet.
• Display: Screen size, resolution, and panel type are crucial for the tablet user experience. Apple tablets typically feature high-quality IPS LCD screens, while some Android tablets have vibrant AMOLED displays for more vivid colors and deeper blacks. Screen size varies by model but usually falls between 8 and 12 inches.
• Performance: Tablet performance depends on the processor, RAM, and battery. Apple tablets usually offer smooth and fast performance due to powerful chips and OS optimization. Android tablets can also perform well, but it varies based on the manufacturer and model.
• Accessories: Apple tablets have a wide range of official accessories, like the Apple Pencil, Magic Keyboard, or Smart Folio, seamlessly integrating with the tablet and providing additional functions. Android tablets also have accessories, often third-party and not always compatible with all models.

And to add a statement to this tablet analysis: «You get what you pay for.»

iOS 17 is about to arrive on your old iPhone, and it’s its final update. Should you install it?

APPLE RELEASES EVERY YEAR THE DEVICES THAT WILL BE ABLE TO RECEIVE THE LATEST VERSION OF THE iOS SYSTEM

Usually, models older than 5 years are excluded from this update, for reasons related to the user experience. The latest version of iOS can impact the performance of older iPhones.

The 2023 list of iPhones that will receive iOS 17:

• IPhone XR
• iPhone XS
• iPhone XS Max
• iPhone 11
• iPhone 11 Pro
• iPhone 11 Pro Max
• iPhone SE (2nd gen)
• iPhone 12
• iPhone 12 mini
• iPhone 12 Pro
• iPhone 12 Pro Max
• iPhone 13
• iPhone 13 mini
• iPhone 13 Pro
• iPhone 13 Pro Max
• iPhone 14
• iPhone 14 Plus
• iPhone 14 Pro
• iPhone 14 Pro Max
• iPhone SE (3rd gen)

INSTALLING THE LATEST UPDATE ON YOUR IPHONE AFTER 5 YEARS CAN HAVE BOTH ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES

Here are some factors to consider:

ADVANTAGES

1. SECURITY: One of the most important reasons to keep your iPhone up to date is security. Apple regularly releases updates to patch vulnerabilities and protect your device from malware and hacking attempts.

2. BUG FIXES AND IMPROVEMENTS: Updates often include bug fixes and performance improvements, which can enhance the overall user experience. Installing the latest update can make your device more stable and efficient.

3. COMPATIBILITY: As time goes on, some apps and services may require a more recent iOS version to work properly. By updating your iPhone, you ensure that you can continue to use the latest apps and services.

DISADVANTAGES

1. PERFORMANCE: On older devices, installing the latest updates can sometimes lead to performance issues. Newer versions of iOS are designed with newer hardware in mind, so they may not run as smoothly on older devices. However, Apple usually tries to optimize updates for older devices as much as possible.

2. STORAGE: Updates can be quite large, and older iPhones may have limited storage space. You might need to delete some apps or files to make room for the update.

3. BATTERY LIFE: Some users have reported that newer iOS updates can affect battery life on older devices. This isn’t always the case, but it’s something to be aware of.

IF SECURITY IS YOUR CONCERN, DO IT

Ultimately, whether you should install the latest update on your 5-year-old iPhone depends on your priorities. If security is a concern and you want to ensure your device is protected, it’s generally a good idea to update. However, if your device is already struggling with performance issues, you might want to research the specific update and see if other users with similar devices have reported any problems.

Before updating, it’s also a good practice to back up your data to iCloud or your computer in case anything goes wrong during the update process.

LO QUE HABRÍA QUE MIRAR AL COMPRAR UN SMARTPHONE…Y NO SE MIRA

PRECIO SI, PERO OJO: ¿CUANTOS AÑOS TE VA A DURAR EN PERFECTO FUNCIONAMIENTO?

Hoy, los 4 smartphones más vendidos en Amazon, son estos Xiaomi, Redmi, Poco.

Es evidente que la gente los compra por su precio asequible, pero no saben, o les da igual, que al de dos años Xiaomi los dejará sin actualizaciones y al de tres años los dejará sin SEGURIDAD, lo cual es más grave.

LAS MARCAS, UNAS MÁS QUE OTRAS, SE DESENTIENDEN BASTANTE RÁPIDO DE LOS SMARTPHONES VENDIDOS

Estos son los años que las principales marcas actualizan.

En general, hay una política para la gama alta y otra para la gama baja.

Pero luego, las diferencias son muy grandes entre marcas.

Hay una marca, la que solo vende móviles de gama alta, que destaca sobre todas las demás en el soporte que da: APPLE

Si quieres un teléfono para más de 5 años, en perfecto funcionamiento y seguridad, compra un iPhone. Cada vez más gente valora esta opción, aunque hay que rascarse el bolsillo. Pero ahí está la Segunda Mano.

Puedes pensar: «A mi no me importa que me actualicen la versión de Android». Pero esa es una de las razones por las que te han puesto el smartphone a 200 y pico euros o menos. Porque se van a desentender de ti en un par de años. Bien, no te llegarán nuevas funcionalidades ni mejoras, pero eso no es lo peor.

PEOR ES QUE EN TRES AÑOS NO TE ENVIEN YA PARCHES DE SEGURIDAD PARA PROTEGER TU SMARTPHONE

Y te quedes a tu suerte. Todos los meses se descubren «agujeros» o vulnerabilidades en los Sistemas Operativos, sobre todo en Android. Google saca los parches que los arreglan y se los envía a los fabricantes. Pero estos tardan mucho en enviártelos a ti y al de 3 años dejan de hacerlo en estos móviles baratos.

PERO HAY UNA MARCA QUE DA 5 AÑOS DE SOPORTE DE SEGURIDAD EN LOS TELÉFONOS BARATOS ANDROID: SAMSUNG

Samsung ha ido dando cada vez más valor a las actualizaciones, en los últimos años. Hoy día es la marca mas «duradera», en este sentido, de todo el mundo Android.

La gama baja de Samsung da más soporte de seguridad que la alta de Xiaomi.

Quizá por eso, los smartphones de Samsung son siempre un poco más caros que los de la competencia, a igualdad de gama.

Siempre es difícil pagar más cuando compras un móvil, porque es un dinero importante. Pero piensa que si es barato es porque lo están RECORTANDO DE ALGUN SITIO, o de varios.

El soporte de calidad es una de las primeras cosas que se recortan en los móviles baratos. Después vendrán el procesador, la cámara…etc. Pero tener un móvil seguro durante muchos años…. al final es más barato.

SI QUIERES CONOCER LA SITUACIÓN DE LAS ACTUALIZACIONES DE TU TELÉFONO, CONSULTA EN ESTA WEBhttps://es.androidupdatetracker.com/

https://es.androidupdatetracker.com/

Te dará toda las información que necesitas.

SECURITY UPDATES OR PATCHES TO FIX VULNERABILITIES IN OUR PHONES AND TABLETS

Security updates are essential to keep our mobile devices protected from the computer threats that constantly arise. Both Android and iOS, the two most popular operating systems on the market, offer periodic updates that fix vulnerabilities and improve the performance of their devices. However, the update policy of the two systems is very different and it is advisable to know it to know what to expect and how to act.

Android: fragmentation and delays

Android is an open source operating system that allows manufacturers to customize it and adapt it to their own devices. This has the advantage of offering a wide variety of options and prices to users, but also implies a greater fragmentation and heterogeneity of the Android ecosystem.

This means that security updates do not arrive at the same time or in the same way to all Android devices. Google usually releases a monthly security bulletin with the corresponding patches, but it depends on each manufacturer and operator to implement them and distribute them to their users. This can cause delays and inconsistencies in the availability of updates, which leaves some devices more exposed than others.

In addition, manufacturers often stop offering updates to older or lower-end devices, which reduces their lifespan and security. According to a report by Statista⁴, in 2022 only 24% of Android devices had installed the latest version of the operating system (Android 12), while the remaining 76% used previous versions, some with several years old.

iOS: uniformity and speed

iOS is a closed operating system that only works on devices designed by Apple. This has the disadvantage of limiting the options and prices of users, but also implies a greater uniformity and consistency of the iOS ecosystem.

This means that security updates arrive at the same time and in the same way to all compatible iOS devices. Apple usually releases a system update every month or every two months that includes the corresponding patches, and distributes them directly to users without intermediaries. This allows for greater speed and effectiveness in applying updates, which improves device security.

In addition, Apple usually offers updates to older or lower-end devices for longer, which extends their lifespan and security. According to a report by Apple², in 2022 90% of iOS devices had installed the latest version of the operating system (iOS 16), while the remaining 10% used previous versions.

Conclusion

Security updates are essential to protect our mobile devices from computer threats. Both Android and iOS offer periodic updates that fix vulnerabilities and improve performance, but the update policy of the two systems is very different. Android presents greater fragmentation and delays in distributing updates, which can compromise the security of some devices. iOS presents greater uniformity and speed in applying updates, which improves the security of all devices. Therefore, it is important to be attentive to available updates and apply them as soon as possible, regardless of the operating system we use.

Source: Conversation with Bing, 11/5/2023

(1) iOS vs. Android: a comparison in security 2023 | NordVPN. https://nordvpn.com/en/blog/android-vs-ios/.

(2) Apple Security Updates – Apple Support (ES). https://support.apple.com/es-es/HT201222.

(3) Security updates you should install now on iOS, Android …. https://bing.com/search?q=security+updates+Android+iOS.

(4) Security updates you should install now on iOS, Android …. https://en.wired.com/articles/security-updates-for-ios-android-windows-chrome-firefox.

(5) How to check and update your Android version. https://support.google.com/android/answer/7680439?hl=en-419.

(6) Check and update your Android version – Android Help. https://support.google.com/android/answer/7680439?hl=en.

Origen: Conversación con Bing, 11/5/2023
(1) Parches de seguridad de Windows: qué son y cómo instalarlos – Xataka. https://www.xataka.com/basics/parches-seguridad-windows-que-como-instalarlos.
(2) actualizaciones y parches – Traducción al inglés – Linguee. https://www.linguee.es/espanol-ingles/traduccion/actualizaciones+y+parches.html.
(3) actualizaciones de parches – Traducción al inglés – Linguee. https://www.linguee.es/espanol-ingles/traduccion/actualizaciones+de+parches.html.

LISTA DE TELEFONOS QUE ACTUALIZARÁN A iOS14: APPLE INCLUYE LOS DE HACE 5 AÑOS

Mi antiguo iphone 6 plus

LISTA DE TELEFONOS ACTUALIZABLES A IOS 14

• iPhone SE (2020)
• iPhone 11
• iPhone 11 Pro
• iPhone 11 Pro Max
• iPhone XS
• iPhone XS Max
• iPhone XR
• iPhone X
• iPhone 8
• iPhone 8 Plus
• iPhone 7
• iPhone 7 Plus
• iPhone SE
• iPhone 6s
• iPhone 6s Plus
• iPod touch (7a generación)

Segun https://www.tomsguide.com/news/ios-14-leak-reveals-which-iphones-will-run-it-heres-the-full-list Apple incluye el iPhone 6s de 2015 entre los dispositivos actualizables a la versión de iOS de este año.

LA GRAN BAZA DE APPLE ES LA DURABILIDAD DE SUS IPHONES, ACTUALIZADOS Y SEGUROS

Es cierto que se paga más por un iPhone que por un Android, pero es que las plataformas móviles no ofrecen lo mismo. Mientras Google abandona incluso su marca Pixel al de tres años (ni parches de seguridad ni nuevas características de Android), Apple actualiza sus teléfonos durante, al menos, 5 años, siendo esta una de las grandes bazas de la marca de la manzana.

Quien quiera un teléfono que dure, tenga nuevas funcionalidades y sea seguro durante estos 5 años, no tiene otra opción que Apple.

¿QUÉ MARCA DE ANDROID ES LA QUE MÁS ACTUALIZA?

Fuente: AOSMARK

Ya se que nadie se compra su móvil por la rapidez con la que las marcas actualizan Android. De hecho, las marcas que mejor actualizan son MINORITARIAS. Pero bueno, ahí va por si quieres tenerlo en cuenta.

Los móviles que mas actualizan son, probablemente, los mas seguros y los que mas tiempo te duren en buena forma.

ACTUALIZACIÓN DEL SISTEMA ANDROID A NUEVAS VERSIONES: GOOGLE Y ONEPLUS CUMPLEN

La clasificación de AOSMARK (arriba), en 2019, puntua a las marcas según cuantos de sus smartphones hayan actualizado a la versión más nueva de Android. Hoy Android 10.

https://www.aosmark.com

Evidentemente, Google tiene TODOS sus teléfonos Pixel (10) actualizados a la última versión.

Y después viene OnePlus con una muy buena segunda posición.

A partir de ahí, vienen las marcas que más telefonos venden. Y sus puntuaciones no son nada brillantes.

Pongamos el caso de Xiaomi:

Xiaomi

La mayoría de sus teléfonos seguían estando en Android 9, y aun pasarán meses para que casi todos estén en la última versión. Por tanto, es una marca lenta y que suele dejar algún modelo por el camino.

Si observamos qué modelos ha actualizado, vemos que están sus “buques insignia” (Mi) con un par de años y del mismo año y los del programa Android One mas recientes.

¿Que podemos concluir? Que si queremos actualizaciones debemos optar por los móviles “tope” de la marca, los mas vendidos y los Android One.

ACTUALIZACIÓN DE PARCHES DE SEGURIDAD

Fuente: Androidpolice

Pero tan importante -o más- que la actualización de Android es la de los PARCHES DE SEGURIDAD mensuales que Google envía a los fabricantes.

En la puntuación otorgada por Androidpolice, Google es el primero, evidentemente, pero SAMSUNG y NOKIA ocupan una buena posición.

LG, Motorola y Asus son los que peor actualizan los parches.

https://www.androidpolice.com/2020/05/06/android-phone-security-update-tracker/

PERO RECUERDA QUE AL DE 3 AÑOS, TU MÓVIL ANDROID SE QUEDARÁ SEGURAMENTE SIN SOPORTE

Incluso aunque tengas un Pixel o un Samsung, tras 3 años, los Android quedan abandonados a su suerte y ya no reciben parches de seguridad, por lo general.