This past weekend marked a significant moment for me as I finally bid farewell to the 4.7-inch iPhone 6 design that had dominated my life for a decade. Launched in 2014, the iPhone 6 was a groundbreaking shift for Apple, increasing screen size after years of sticking to the 3.5-inch display deemed "perfect" at the time. Fast-forward ten years, and I find myself replacing my wife's third-generation iPhone SE, already struggling with battery life, with the much-anticipated iPhone 16.

Reflecting on this transition reveals just how striking the differences are between these two devices. While eight years of innovation and technological progress separate them, the aesthetics and feel of the iPhone 6 and the latest model remain stubbornly similar. What was acceptable in 2014 has morphed into a struggle in 2023, necessitating this much-anticipated good riddance.

The Battery Blues

From the start, battery life was the iPhone 6 design's glaring flaw. With limited internal space, the battery struggled to keep up with the demands of modern usage, requiring frequent midday charges and the company of a portable power bank. As the years went by, that battery life became increasingly inadequate. Remembering my first “modern” smartphone experience with the iPhone XR in 2018, it felt like a revelation; suddenly, I could get through my day without the constant anxiety of finding a charging outlet. My current devices, the iPhone 13 Pro and the latest iPhone 15 Pro, impressively last well into the evening.

Curves Ahead: A Design Dilemma

One of the signature aspects of the iPhone 6 era was its curved edges, which initially seemed sleek but soon became an annoyance. Despite using screen protectors and cases to safeguard against wear and tear, this design flaw meant that protectors often didn’t adhere properly around the edges, inviting frustration over unsightly bubbles or, worse, unprotected sections vulnerable to damage.

In 2020, Apple pivoted back to a flat-edged design with the iPhone 12—a much-welcomed change that made applying screen protectors easier and efficient. The flat surface allowed for a seamless interface while mitigating the dust that plagued those irritating edges of the older models.

For those who love the minimalist approach—those confident in their AppleCare, with no worries about cases—let’s not ignore the fact that the slippery nature of the iPhone 6 did not help. The glass back of the later iPhone 8/SE made it even more challenging to grip securely without the added bulk of a case.

In conclusion, cast away the chains of the ancient iPhone 6 design! The past decade has introduced smartphones that excel in battery life, durability, and overall user experience. As Apple continues to innovate, let's look forward to a future where pricing and features balance consumer expectations without holding us back in outdated designs. If your loved ones are still clinging to their iPhone 8s or iPhone SEs, now might be the perfect time for a much-needed upgrade!