Why the iPhone 8 Is a Step Above the 6s and 7
The iPhone 8 launched in September 2017 and shares a chassis with the iPhone 6s and 7 — same 4.7" screen, same physical size. But internally it's a meaningful upgrade. The A11 Bionic chip is significantly faster than the A9 in the 6s and the A10 Fusion in the 7. It's the same chip as the iPhone X.
Crucially, the iPhone 8 maxes out at iOS 16 — one generation higher than the 6s and 7's iOS 15 ceiling. That single extra iOS version makes a real difference in 2026: YouTube, Spotify, Instagram, and Google Chrome all work on iOS 16. The 6s and 7 are locked out of all four.
Additional hardware improvements: wireless Qi charging (the 8 was the first iPhone with wireless charging), IP67 water resistance (one metre, 30 minutes), and a glass back that enables wireless charging but is more fragile than the aluminium 7.
What Works on iOS 16
- YouTube (iOS 16+) ✅ — Now works. A key advantage over the 6s/7.
- Spotify (iOS 16+) ✅ — Works natively.
- Instagram (iOS 16+) ✅ — Works.
- Google Chrome (iOS 16+) ✅ — Works.
- WhatsApp (iOS 15.1+) ✅ — Works.
- BBC iPlayer, ITVX ✅ — Fully supported.
- Netflix (iOS 16+) ✅ — Works.
- Banking apps — Most major UK banks support iOS 16. Check your specific bank, as some have moved to iOS 17.
💡 The iOS 16 advantage: Going from iOS 15 to iOS 16 opens up YouTube, Spotify, Instagram, Chrome, and Netflix — the five apps most people search for when their old device stops working. The iPhone 8 is often only £15–20 more than a 6s on eBay, making it significantly better value.
What Doesn't Work
iOS 16 is better than iOS 15 but still has a ceiling. In 2026, apps moving to iOS 17 minimum are starting to create the same friction that iOS 15 users experience with iOS 16 requirements. Specific pain points:
- TikTok — May require iOS 16+ (check current requirement)
- Some banking apps — A handful have moved to iOS 17+
- Apps targeting iOS 26 features — A growing minority
- Face ID — The 8 has Touch ID (home button), not Face ID
iPhone 8 vs iPhone 7: Which to Buy?
The iPhone 7 and 8 look almost identical. The practical differences:
- iOS ceiling: 8 → iOS 16, 7 → iOS 15. This is the primary reason to prefer the 8.
- Wireless charging: 8 only. Convenient but not essential.
- Glass back: 8 is more fragile, cracks more easily if dropped.
- Headphone jack: Neither has one (both Lightning).
- Price: 8 typically £15–25 more than a 7 on eBay.
The iOS 16 advantage is worth the price difference. Choose the 8 if cost is close.
Is It Worth Buying in 2026?
eBay prices in July 2026: iPhone 8 64GB at £60–90 Good condition. On Amazon Renewed from around £70–100 with a 90-day guarantee.
As a primary phone: viable for many users in 2026, particularly if your app requirements are covered by iOS 16. The main check: does your banking app support iOS 16? If yes, the 8 is a functional daily driver.
As a secondary/spare phone: excellent value. The IP67 water resistance makes it more durable than the 6s and 7 for outdoor, travel, or gym use.
Our verdict
The iPhone 8 is the best-value iOS 16 iPhone in 2026. The extra iOS version over the 6s and 7 unlocks YouTube, Spotify, Instagram, and Chrome — the four apps most people miss on iOS 15 devices. At £60–90 refurbished, it represents the sweet spot between price and capability in the legacy iPhone market.
Find apps for your iPhone 8
Filter by iOS 16 to see the full compatible catalogue.
Browse iPhone 8 apps →Also see: iPhone 7 in 2026 · iPhone X in 2026 · iPhone 6s in 2026