[Digital Today reporter Yoonseo Lee] Apple has included the iPhone 11, released in 2019, in the list of devices that will support the latest iPhone operating system, putting iPhone replacement cycles back in focus.

Engadget, an IT media outlet, reported on July 20 (local time) that Apple said in the keynote of its Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC 2026) that it will support the latest iOS down to the iPhone 11.

Criteria for judging how long an iPhone can be used include how long the device can actually operate normally and when users decide to replace it because of differences in new features. Software support periods are also seen as an important yardstick. Operating system updates not only add new features but also provide security patches that address newly discovered vulnerabilities.

Apple has maintained an advantage in long-term software support. Google recently said it would provide up to seven years of operating system updates for some smartphones, but it remains to be seen whether the policy will be maintained through the actual end of support.

The announcement is also a measure of the iPhone's practical usable life. With the iPhone 11, released in 2019, included in the list of devices eligible for the latest iOS in 2026, it was confirmed that Apple is continuing a software support stance of about seven years.

By that measure, relatively recent models such as the iPhone 16 and iPhone 17 are highly likely to receive operating system and security updates at least through 2031. That means devices can be used for a long period without replacement if demand for the latest features is not strong.

Price is also cited as a variable in deciding when to replace a device. Apple has already raised prices for iPads and Macs due to the impact of memory supply shortages, and there is speculation that iPhone prices could also rise. Some analysis says that if buyers are considering a new iPhone, it may be advantageous to replace it before any price increase.

Still, the actual replacement point is not determined solely by the end of software support. Even if a device operates normally and can run apps, the product life felt by users may become shorter if the feature gap with new models widens. Conversely, if interest in the latest features is not strong and security updates are provided steadily, iPhones can be used longer than other smartphones.

The WWDC 2026 announcement shows that the key criterion that still determines how long an iPhone can be used is software support. With the possibility of iPhone price increases also being raised, users who are delaying purchases need to consider the support period together with the scope of security patch coverage.