According to a recent Consumer Intelligence Research Partners LLC (CIRP) report, over 13% of iPhones sold in 2023 were bought by former Androids. The number of phones sold was 15% in 2022 and 11% in 2021 and 2020. CIRP has also published a new report on the exact iPhone models Android switchers buy when they move to iOS, with a significant percentage of them choosing the iPhone 14 models.
Many Android switchers chose older iPhone models
The CIRP report gathered data up to December 2023, indicating that 29% of Android switchers opted for older iPhone models such as the iPhone SE 3, iPhone 12, or iPhone 13/13 mini. This trend may be attributed to many of these switchers transitioning from non-flagship devices, making them more affordable iPhone options and less financially burdensome when experimenting with a new operating system.
Furthermore, the report reveals that 51% of switchers went for the iPhone 14 series, mainly the latest models available during the study period. This choice aligns with the timing of CIRP’s data collection, which mainly occurred before the announcement of the iPhone 15 models.
CIRP also noted that approximately 37% of switchers opted for premium models like the iPhone 14 or iPhone 15 Pro series. These premium devices offer advanced features and functionalities, indicating that some switchers are willing to invest in top-of-the-line products. Switchers selecting these premium models were likely transitioning from flagship Android devices, thus influencing their preference for higher-end iPhone models.
iOS updates could have been a factor
Some may wonder why certain users would opt for the iPhone SE, a design that has been around for almost a decade. However, there’s a possibility that Android switchers who chose this model were seeking the most affordable iPhone option that guarantees future software updates for at least two or three years.
According to speculation, Apple will likely maintain support for all iPhones currently compatible with iOS 17 in the upcoming iOS 18 update, scheduled for release later this year. These iPhones include the iPhone XR and XS series. Therefore, all iPhones released after the XR and XS, including the iPhone SE 2020 and 2022, will be compatible with the upcoming iOS version.
Of course, other popular choices made by Android switchers, such as the iPhone 14 series, iPhone 13/13 mini, and iPhone 12, will also receive iOS updates for at least three or four more years. Considering that the average user upgrades their phone every two to three years, most of these switchers will likely have transitioned to newer devices when Apple ceases support for their current ones.
