Old iPhone 4 resurfaces as collector item

An old iPhone model that Apple declared obsolete years ago is now selling for thousands of dollars, as online interest in the device has surged by 979%, according to recent data. The phone in question is the iPhone 4, which was first released in 2010 and removed from stores in 2013.

Google Trends shows a sharp rise in searches for the iPhone 4, driven mainly by social media content. On platforms like TikTok, users are sharing videos using the phone, praising its simple design and low-quality camera as a break from modern smartphones. Some listings on eBay show the iPhone 4 priced as high as $12,000, while other auctions confirm that select units are actually selling for high amounts.

Apple considers a device “obsolete” if it has not been sold for more than seven years. Because of this, the iPhone 4 no longer receives software updates or security patches. The latest version it supports is iOS 7.1.2, released in 2014.

Tech experts warn that using the iPhone 4 as a daily device is risky. Without security updates, personal data may be exposed to hacking and data leaks. The phone is also no longer covered by warranty, and replacement parts are hard to find.

In the Philippines, interest in retro gadgets has also grown, with old phones appearing in online marketplaces and collector groups. While most iPhone 4 units locally sell for much lower prices, rare sealed or well-kept models could still attract collectors willing to pay a premium. Still, experts advise keeping such devices as collectibles rather than using them for everyday tasks.