Over the past five years, Apple’s flagship smartphone has undergone significant hardware and software transformations. Since 2021, the device has shifted from Lightning ports to universal USB-C connections, introduced customizable action buttons, upgraded to adaptive 120Hz displays, and integrated optional artificial intelligence tools.
Hardware Revisions: Ports, Buttons, and the Shift to USB-C
Smartphones often evolve in subtle increments, but tracking the iPhone over a five-year horizon reveals striking hardware shifts. For over a decade, Apple relied on its proprietary Lightning port for charging and accessories. While it was once an improvement over older 30-pin connectors, it remained limited to USB 2.0 speeds on iPhones, falling behind competing devices.
That era ended in 2023, complying with European Union regulations requiring all phones sold in the region to adopt USB-C. Physical controls also transformed during this period. The traditional mute switch—a fixture on the top-left of every iPhone since 2007—gave way to the customizable Action Button on Pro models, before expanding across the broader lineup. Newer models also introduced the touch-sensitive Camera Control button, allowing users to open the camera and capture photos while adjusting zoom and exposure.
Display Evolution: From Notches to ProMotion and Always-On Screens
Screen technology has seen steady refinement, bringing features once reserved for high-end Pro devices down to base models. The most notable performance upgrade is ProMotion, Apple’s term for an adaptive refresh rate. Screens can climb to 120Hz for high-movement activities like gaming or drop to 1Hz to conserve battery when static.
Visual architecture also changed dramatically above the display. After the iPhone X introduced the notch in 2017, Apple slimmed it down before replacing it entirely with the Dynamic Island on Pro models starting with the iPhone 14 Pro/Pro Max—subsequently expanding to other units. Instead of a static bar, the Dynamic Island displays active background actions like Maps navigation, timers, or music playback. Meanwhile, an always-on display introduced on Pro models keeps the dark lock screen visible for widgets and notifications without requiring users to wake the device.
Apple Intelligence and the Arrival of On-Device AI
Artificial intelligence was absent from the iPhone ecosystem in 2021, but the technology has since reshaped the device’s software capabilities. Apple introduced its suite of AI tools, known as Apple Intelligence, in October 2024. Available on the iPhone 15 Pro, Pro Max, and all subsequent models, the platform runs optional tools designed to assist with daily tasks.
Writing Tools summarize lengthy documents and adjust tone for clarity, while Image Playground generates emojis and images from prompts alongside photo edits. Siri received natural language upgrades and optional ChatGPT integration for complex queries. Other functions include visual intelligence features for scanning items via the camera and live translations across calls and messages.
Financing and the iPhone Upgrade Programme Structure
Beyond physical hardware and software upgrades, acquiring and updating devices involves structured financial agreements. In regions like the United Kingdom, customers can participate in specific hardware plans that bundle hardware and insurance coverage. Enrolment requires an eligible UK bank account, proof of residency, and meeting minimum age thresholds.
Participants enter into a 20-month 0% APR instalment loan to cover the cost of the financed device and an AppleCare+ policy, minus an upfront payment. Loan agreements are handled through the manufacturer’s banking partner, Barclays Partner Finance, which is a trading name of Clydesdale Financial Services Limited and a wholly owned subsidiary of Barclays Bank PLC.
Upgrade Options and Remaining Program Requirements
The financing structure includes provisions for exchanging hardware before the loan term concludes. To exercise an upgrade option, participants must maintain an account in good standing, keep the AppleCare+ policy active, and complete at least 11 monthly instalment payments. Customers must also trade in their original hardware in good physical and operational condition as directed.
Successfully executing an upgrade requires entering into a new upgrade agreement, submitting a fresh upfront payment, and applying for a new 20-month 0% APR instalment loan. Upon completion, the original loan balance is cleared by the manufacturer, the old insurance policy is cancelled, and subsequent payments shift entirely to the newly established financing terms.
