iPhone 18 too expensive? Here are 3 ways to make your old iPhone feel like new again

The new iPhone 18 Pro series hit store shelves this week, boasting top-tier features like lightning-fast processors, superior cameras, and foldable capabilities. However, these advanced capabilities come at a steep price. The iPhone 17 Pro and 17 Pro Max launch at $1,099 and $1,199, respectively, while the newer models start at $1,199 and $1,299.

While Apple is partly responsible for these exorbitant prices, other factors—such as the AI-driven memory chip shortage—also contribute to rising component costs. This price hike may dissuade some potential buyers. If you're uncertain whether the new iPhones' prices are worth it, consider preserving your money and refreshing your existing iPhone instead. Here are three ways to revitalize your old iPhone:

1. Upgrade your iPhone's battery. One of the most effective ways to make your iPhone feel new again is by replacing its battery. This is particularly crucial if you own an iPhone 15 Pro or earlier models. iPhone batteries are composed of chemical components that naturally deteriorate over time, leading to reduced battery life and performance throttling.

Consequently, your phone may feel sluggish and require more frequent charging. Apple suggests replacing the battery if it has dropped below 80% of its original capacity—a benchmark that most iPhones three years old or older have already reached. The cost of a battery replacement is relatively affordable, ranging from $89 for an iPhone 12 or 13 series to $99 for an iPhone 14 or 15 series. This is a fraction of the cost of purchasing a brand-new iPhone.

2. Perform a factory reset (once your data is backed up). As you continue using your iPhone, digital "cruft" accumulates, consisting of cached files, system logs, and remnants of previously deleted apps or operating systems. Over time, this build-up can consume valuable storage space, generate bugs, and hinder performance. A factory reset can effectively eliminate this cruft, returning your iPhone to a software state akin to when it was brand new.

However, it's crucial to back up your data before executing a factory reset, as this process permanently erases all personal files, settings, and data from your device. Follow Apple's instructions for backing up and resetting your iPhone to ensure a smooth transition.

3. Refresh your iPhone's appearance with a new case. Apple introduces fresh color options for the iPhone lineup annually, capitalizing on the allure of new aesthetics to entice consumers to upgrade their devices. Nevertheless, you can effortlessly transform your iPhone's visual appeal without shoulder the hefty price tag of a new model.

Cases are available in a vast array of colors and textures, enabling you to give your old, scuffed-up iPhone a rejuvenated look. For instance, the iPhone 18 Pro's signature color for this year is Burgundy, which can cost upwards of $1,199 to incorporate into the device. Alternatively, you can opt for a more budget-friendly solution by purchasing a burgundy or "red wine" case from various online retailers, instantly enhancing your iPhone's visual appeal without breaking the bank.