The iPhone You Should Buy This Year
▼ Summary
– The author is an experienced tech journalist who hosts a newsletter called Installer, which shares recommendations and tech insights.
– Gina Trapani, a notable former Lifehacker blogger, has returned to blogging with her site Note to Self and shared her minimalist iPhone setup and app preferences.
– Gina uses utility-focused apps like Obsidian for notes, Superhuman for email, and Oral-B for gamified brushing, while avoiding excessive notifications and AI reliance.
– The Installer community contributes diverse recommendations, including media like Demon Slayer and Frieren, tech tools like an anti-theft iOS shortcut, and climate-focused literature.
– The author endorses the Netflix show Building the Band for its engaging mix of music competition and reality TV elements, praising its structure and entertainment value.
Navigating the ever-expanding world of smartphones can feel overwhelming, but when it comes to choosing the right iPhone this year, a few key considerations stand out. For many users, the decision hinges on balancing performance, longevity, and value, especially as new models continue to push technological boundaries while older versions remain remarkably capable.
One perspective comes from Gina Trapani, a respected voice in tech, who recently shared insights from her own upgrade journey. After using an iPhone 13 Pro for four years, she’s looking forward to the noticeable leap in performance and features that come with a newer device. Her experience underscores a common truth: holding onto a phone for several years makes the eventual upgrade feel substantial and rewarding.
Gina’s approach to her device is refreshingly practical. She keeps her home screen minimal, grouping apps into folders like Communication, Health & Fitness, and Travel to encourage intentional usage. She turns off most notification badges and relies on search for everything else. This streamlined setup helps her stay present and focused, a valuable reminder that how we organize our technology can shape our daily experience.
She also uses several purpose-driven apps that enhance her routine. An iOS shortcut called “Note” links directly to an Obsidian inbox for quick captures. For fitness, a custom app tells her whether to run, bike, or swim each day. She even uses the Oral-B app to gamify brushing her teeth, ensuring she gets the full two minutes in. Other favorites include Superhuman for email, Todoist for deadlines, Citymapper for navigation, and Libby for borrowing ebooks from the library.
When it comes to upgrading, timing matters. Waiting three to four years between upgrades allows users to fully appreciate the advances in newer models, from improved cameras and battery life to faster processors and software enhancements. For those considering a new iPhone this year, it’s worth evaluating which features align most closely with personal needs, whether that’s professional-grade photography, all-day battery life, or seamless integration with other Apple devices.
Beyond hardware, the software experience continues to evolve. iOS introduces new tools for productivity, health, and customization each year, making even older iPhones feel fresh with updates. For anyone on the fence, it’s helpful to consider not just the device itself, but how it fits into a broader ecosystem of apps, accessories, and daily habits.
Whether you’re upgrading from an older model or choosing your first iPhone, the goal is to find a device that supports your lifestyle without unnecessary complexity. Sometimes, the best choice is the one that feels intuitive, reliable, and genuinely useful, day in and day out.
(Source: The Verge)
