According to TechRadar, a study by the online phone recycling company Compare and Recycle has revealed an astonishing surge in interest for this vintage device. Specifically, Google searches for the keyword “buy iPhone 4” skyrocketed by 979% over the past year. This staggering figure confirms that the iPhone 4 is no longer just a collector’s item gathering dust in a display case—it’s now a highly sought-after device in the second-hand market.
The “ancient” iPhone, discontinued over a decade ago, is now a coveted item among younger generations.
This unexpected revival is fueled by the growing trend of “digital nostalgia” sweeping across social media platforms. Hundreds of thousands of Gen Z and Millennial users are rediscovering early-generation iPhones, using them as compact digital cameras (digicams). A quick scroll through TikTok or Instagram with the hashtag #digicam reveals millions of videos and images, with the iPhone 4 taking center stage as the primary creative tool—boasting over 350,000 videos and nearly 700,000 related posts.
Despite its age, the iPhone 4 remains a standout thanks to its unique camera and remarkable durability.
The irony lies in the fact that while tech companies race to integrate AI for sharper, more vibrant photos, younger users are growing weary of this artificial perfection. They’re drawn to the iPhone 4’s modest 5MP camera precisely because of its grainy, nostalgic, and raw image quality.
Photos taken with the iPhone 4 evoke a sense of authenticity and artistry that modern filters struggle to replicate. For many, holding the compact device with its iconic square steel frame and capturing lo-fi images is a statement of lifestyle—prioritizing emotion over technical specs.
Instead of opting for a compact camera, many young users are choosing the iPhone 4.
However, using a device like the iPhone 4, which has been unsupported since 2016, poses significant cybersecurity risks. Experts from Compare and Recycle caution that this should never be your primary communication device. To stay safe, avoid logging into personal Apple IDs or storing sensitive data, such as bank passwords, on the device.
The best way to enjoy the iPhone 4 in 2026 is to treat it as a completely offline device. Enable Airplane Mode frequently, avoid connecting to public Wi-Fi or cellular networks, and manually transfer photos and videos via cable instead of using wireless features like AirDrop or iCloud. By following these “isolation” principles, you can relive the nostalgia of vintage photography while keeping your personal data secure.
The iPhone 17: Shattering Records, Surpassing Legends
The iPhone 4’s longstanding reign as the ultimate smartphone may finally come to an end with the arrival of the iPhone 17. For 15 years, the iPhone 4 has been a legendary device, but its dominance could be challenged and potentially dethroned by Apple’s newest offering.
The Cheapest Apple Phone Yet: Critics Pan Upcoming Release as an ‘Enlarged iPhone 4’
The alleged iPhone SE 4 model sports a sleek, angular design that takes its cues from the iPhone 4, a device that made its debut a whopping 15 years ago. This new model is a refreshing throwback to Apple’s iconic design, with a modern twist.
