Is a used iPhone 6s still usable? How to choose one and get the most out of it without regrets in 2026

Is the iPhone 6s trending in the Reiwa era? The "emo" camera and smart secondary device usage for those who deliberately choose it

"I want to get an iPhone as cheaply as possible," "I want to use it as a secondary device for music or social media"... Among these needs, the iPhone 6s is now surprisingly attracting attention.

You might think, "Isn't the iPhone 6s too old for 2026?" But in fact, among trend-conscious young people, there's a growing trend to deliberately choose older models, as they can take "retro and emo photos that the latest models can't capture." In conclusion, if you narrow down its uses, the iPhone 6s is a cost-effective gadget that can still be enjoyed as a "current model" in 2026.

Of course, it doesn't have the lightning-fast specs of the latest models. However, Apple's security updates (iOS 15.8.6, etc.) are still being provided, so a minimum level of safety is ensured. In this article, we'll thoroughly explain the benefits of adopting the iPhone 6s as an "emo companion" and the precautions to take to avoid failure.

The used iPhone 6s is recommended for these types of uses

A used iPhone 6s can still be very useful if you're creative with how you use it. It's particularly recommended for use as a music player, a dedicated SNS browsing device, for casual photography, or as a backup communication device. Instead of seeking versatility as a main device, if you use it for specific purposes where it's "good enough," its low price becomes a major advantage.

Recently, there's also been an increase in people who appreciate the texture of old digital devices and a slightly retro look in photos, leading to a demand for deliberately enjoying the iPhone 6s camera.

Enjoy "emo" photos and videos

The iPhone 6s camera doesn't have the high definition or strong correction of the latest models, but precisely because of that, it can produce slightly rustic and soft images. Among younger generations, there's a tendency to find photos taken with such slightly older smartphones and digital devices "emo."

For those who want to enjoy a Korean-style retro atmosphere or combine it with light processing like a toy camera, it's an attractive iPhone for casual use at a low price. Of course, it's not suitable for professional photography, but it's an interesting option as a secondary device for atmosphere-focused use.

Why the iPhone 6s camera is considered "emo"

Don't you sometimes feel that the latest iPhones, with their AI corrections, are "too perfect"? The iPhone 6s's 12MP camera has a "unique ambiance" that today's smartphones lack.

• Soft texture: Because the resolution isn't too high, skin texture appears matte and gentle.

• Heisei retro colors: A nostalgic, soft tone, unlike the overly vibrant colors of today.

• Natural noise: Even the graininess when shooting in dark places adds character, like a film camera.

If you search for "#iPhone6s" on Instagram or TikTok, you'll find many users enjoying a real vintage feel that cannot be replicated with editing apps.

What you "can" and "cannot" do with an iPhone 6s in 2026

If you just jump on the cheap price, you might end up thinking "This isn't what I expected!" First, let's "declutter your uses."

◎ Satisfying uses (for whom it's suitable)

• "Emo" photo/video shooting: Carry it as a secondary camera.

• Music player: The iPhone 6s has a headphone jack, so you can use your favorite wired earphones directly.

• SNS/Web browsing: LINE, X (formerly Twitter), and browser-based research still work.

• For monitoring children: As a first device, strictly for communication.

✕ Difficult uses (for whom it's not suitable)

• Latest games: Games that use 3D graphics will run slowly and be challenging.

• Long-term use as a main device: Since it doesn't support the latest iOS, there's a risk that more apps will become unusable in the future.

• Video editing: You'll likely find it underpowered for high-quality video editing.

Precautions when purchasing an iPhone 6s

Apple's guidance states that the iPhone 6s is not supported by iOS 26. However, as of January 2026, it is still included in the iOS 15.8.6 security update target, so a minimum level of safety is maintained to some extent. In other words, it's appropriate to think of it as "a used iPhone that can still be used, but you're likely to regret it if you choose incorrectly."

Children's growth photos like a disposable camera

While Apple's official compatibility information excludes it from the latest iOS, it is included in the security release target as of January 2026, so it's not a "completely abandoned device."

However, careful consideration is required for those who want to use it comfortably as their main smartphone every day. For example, people who frequently switch between multiple apps, take many photos and videos, play games, or want to use it for a long time will likely find it lacking in terms of both performance and support. On the other hand, if you use it as a second iPhone for specific roles, such as a music player, for casual photography, as a spare work device, or as a monitoring device for children, it becomes a viable option for owning an iPhone at a lower price.

Summary: The iPhone 6s is the new standard for a "smart secondary device"

In 2026, the iPhone 6s is nearing retirement as a main device, but it still shines as an "emo camera," "music player," and a beloved "secondary device with a home button."

You could pay 150,000 yen for the latest iPhone, but why not capture your unique "ambiance" with an iPhone 6s, available for a few thousand to around ten thousand yen?

If you "don't want to make a mistake but want to enjoy an iPhone cheaply," be sure to check out a specialty store while stock is abundant.