Why the SE 2nd Gen Is the Smart Upgrade from iOS 15 Devices
If you're using an iPhone 6s, 7, or SE 1st gen and frustrated by apps that no longer work, the iPhone SE 2nd gen (2020) is the most logical and cost-effective upgrade path available in 2026.
It keeps what those devices do well — 4.7-inch screen, physical Home button, Touch ID — while solving every iOS limitation. The A13 Bionic chip is the same silicon Apple used in the iPhone 11 Pro Max. It runs iOS 26 and will receive iOS updates for the foreseeable future. Every app that left iOS 15 works on it.
It's a Current Device
Unlike every other device on this site, the iPhone SE 2nd gen is not a legacy device. It runs iOS 26 — the current version — and receives security updates from Apple. There is no iOS ceiling problem to worry about. YouTube works. Spotify works. Netflix works. Instagram works. Banking apps work. All current apps work.
Apple typically supports devices for 5–7 years of iOS updates. The SE 2nd gen was released in 2020, giving it continued iOS support likely through 2027–2028.
The Familiar Feel, Modernised
Coming from an iPhone 6s, 7, or SE 1st gen, the transition is nearly seamless:
- Same 4.7" screen size — identical to the 6s and 7. No adjustment needed.
- Touch ID home button — the same physical lock button style you're used to.
- No Face ID to learn — some people specifically prefer Touch ID. The SE 2nd gen is one of the last iPhones to offer it.
- Lightning connector — same cable as your current iPhone.
- IP67 water resistance — same as the iPhone 8.
⚡ Performance jump: The A13 in the SE 2nd gen is approximately 3–4x faster than the A9 in the iPhone 6s and about 2x faster than the A10 in the iPhone 7. Apps open noticeably faster, photos process immediately, and heavy apps that struggled on the 6s run without hesitation.
Where to Buy in 2026
The iPhone SE 2nd gen is widely available refurbished in 2026. Typical prices:
- eBay Good condition: £80–110
- Amazon Renewed: from around £95–130 with 90-day returns
- Back Market: from around £100–120 with 12-month warranty
Choose 64GB or 128GB — storage matters more than ever on a current device. 64GB is usable but gets tight with apps and photos. 128GB is recommended if budget allows.
Our verdict
The iPhone SE 2nd gen is the cleanest upgrade from any iOS 15 iPhone. It preserves the familiar 4.7" form factor and Touch ID while running iOS 26 and every current app. At £90–130 refurbished, it's the most cost-effective way to solve every iOS 15 limitation without adjusting to Face ID or a larger screen.
Find apps for your iPhone SE 2nd gen
Browse all apps compatible with iOS 26 — your full library is available.
Browse iPhone SE apps →Also see: iPhone 6s in 2026 — the device you're upgrading from · iPhone SE 1st gen in 2026 · Best cheap refurbished Apple devices