Best iPhone for seniors: how to choose one that is easy to use

Most lists of the best iPhone for older adults name one model and move on. The model changes every year, so the checks matter more than the name. Use the seven below, and you will pick well even when a new iPhone comes out.

1. Pick a model that still gets software updates

An iPhone that no longer gets updates stops getting security fixes, and apps eventually stop working. Apple lists iOS 27 as available for iPhone 11 and later, so an iPhone from that list is a safe floor today. A newer model will get updates for more years. Our iOS and Android updates tracker shows the current version.

2. Choose a screen size they can read and hold

• Bigger screen: easier to read and to tap, but heavier and harder to hold in one hand.
• Smaller screen: lighter and easier to hold, but the text is smaller unless you raise Text Size.
• Go to a store and let them hold the phone. This decides more than any spec.

3. Face ID or a Home button

Face ID unlocks the phone when you look at it, which many older adults find easier than a fingerprint. Some people prefer a Home button because it gives them a button to press when they feel lost. Models with a Home button are older designs, so check software support first.

4. Battery health and storage

Buying used? Check Settings › Battery › Battery Health. Look for 85% or more, and see our guide to checking iPhone battery health. For storage, 128 GB is a comfortable minimum for photos of grandchildren. If the iPhone fills up, iCloud storage can help; see how much iCloud storage you need.

5. Safety features

• Emergency SOS and Medical ID work on every modern iPhone. See how to call for help on the lock screen.
• iPhone 14 and later add Crash Detection and Emergency SOS via satellite.
• Find My lets a family member see where the phone is, with permission.

Our guide to making an emergency call on iPhone covers the lock screen button, Medical ID and what happens after a call.

6. New, refurbished or used

New gives the longest support and a full warranty. A refurbished iPhone from Apple or a trusted seller is cheaper and still comes with a warranty. A used phone from a stranger is the riskiest: it can be locked to someone else's Apple Account or have a worn battery. Read our checklist for buying a used phone. AppleCare+ is worth a look for anyone likely to drop the phone; see whether AppleCare is worth it.

7. Set it up to be easy

Our guide to iPhone display settings shows where text size, brightness and Auto-Lock are. For a first-time setup, see setting up a new iPhone.