In a recent report published on the 29th of October in San Francisco, it was revealed that Apple iPhone users tend to hold onto their devices for an extended time in comparison to Android smartphone users. The study suggests that this time frame usually spans at least two years or more.

Interestingly, the data showed that approximately 61 per cent of iPhone users in the United States retained their previous iPhones for a minimum of two years. In contrast, this figure stood at just 43 per cent among Android owners.

The Consumer Intelligence Research Partners' data also indicated a higher percentage of iPhone owners  kept their previous devices for a period of three years or more, as compared to only 21 per cent of Android user base. On the flip side, a mere 10 per cent of iPhone users kept their previous device for a year or less, whereas almost a quarter of Android users fell under this category.

The prevalent perception suggests that iPhone owners are typically wealthier and more style and tech savvy, while Android users tend to be more budget conscious. Theoretically, this should mean that iPhone owners would update their devices frequently, however, the study found this not to be the case.

On most occasions, Android smartphones are cheaper, which could explain the tendency among Android users to replace their phones more frequently. The report also pointed out that, unlike the iPhone which is updated once a year, allowing for a single annual buying rush, the Android market has multiple brands like Samsung, Google, Motorola, among others, launching new phones at least once every year.

The report concluded by suggesting potential reasons why iPhone users typically keep their devices longer. iPhones may be more durable and provide a more satisfactory user experience over a longer time period or perhaps iPhone owners are simply more complacent with their older models and show less interest in the newest model on the market.

Despite the limited availability of the iPhone 15 series, Apple's global market share stood at a substantial 16 per cent in the third quarter of this year. This is a testament to the positive reception of their products, as highlighted by Counterpoint Research.