Introduction: The First iPhone with Siri
When Apple released the iPhone 4S in October 2011, it wasn’t just another iPhone — it was a refined masterpiece. With double the performance, a much-improved camera, and the introduction of Siri, the 4S became a fan favorite.
Even in 2025, the iPhone 4S is respected as a milestone device in Apple’s journey.
iPhone 4S (2011) Detailed Specifications
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Launch Date | October 14, 2011 |
| Network | 2G / 3G (No 4G LTE) |
| Display | 3.5-inch IPS LCD Retina, 640 x 960 px (~330 ppi) |
| Processor (SoC) | Apple A5 Dual-core 1.0 GHz |
| RAM | 512 MB |
| Storage Options | 8GB / 16GB / 32GB / 64GB (No SD card support) |
| Rear Camera | 8 MP, autofocus, LED flash, 1080p video @ 30fps |
| Front Camera | VGA (0.3 MP) |
| Battery | 1432mAh, non-removable |
| Operating System | iOS 5 (upgradable to iOS 9.3.6) |
| GPU | PowerVR SGX543MP2 |
| Dimensions | 115.2 x 58.6 x 9.3 mm |
| Weight | 140 grams |
| Build | Glass front/back, stainless steel frame |
| Charging Port | 30-pin dock connector |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Bluetooth 4.0, GPS |
| Colors | Black, White |
| Launch Price | $199 (16GB), $299 (32GB), $399 (64GB) on contract |
Design & Build Quality
The iPhone 4S retained the premium glass-and-steel design of the iPhone 4 — sleek, elegant, and durable. Its compact size makes it one of the most comfortable iPhones to hold, even today.
It was the last iPhone released during Steve Jobs’ lifetime, making it historically significant.
Display Experience
The 3.5-inch Retina Display remained a standout feature — offering sharp, vibrant visuals with great color accuracy for the time.
Even in 2025, the screen quality is surprisingly good for reading, messaging, and light browsing — although it’s obviously small by today’s standards.
Performance & Software
The jump from iPhone 4’s A4 to iPhone 4S’s A5 chip (dual-core) made a huge difference in speed and multitasking.
The iPhone 4S launched with iOS 5, introducing:
- Siri (voice assistant)
- iMessage
- Notification Center
- iCloud integration
It was officially upgradeable to iOS 9.3.6, offering unmatched software longevity for its era. However, modern apps are no longer compatible in 2025.
Camera Quality
The 8MP rear camera was a major upgrade, capable of recording 1080p full HD video, with better low-light performance and faster shutter speed.
The front camera was still VGA, useful for FaceTime, but weak for selfies.
For its time, the rear camera made the iPhone 4S a leader in smartphone photography.
Battery Life
With a 1432mAh battery, the iPhone 4S could last a full day of moderate use back in 2011. In 2025, most batteries have degraded, so battery replacement is recommended for usability.
Charging is via the 30-pin connector, with no fast or wireless charging.
Pros and Cons of iPhone 4S
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Faster dual-core performance | ❌ Small battery by modern standards |
| ✅ Siri voice assistant debut | ❌ Lags on iOS 9 in 2025 |
| ✅ Great 8MP camera with 1080p video | ❌ Outdated 30-pin connector |
| ✅ Long iOS support (up to iOS 9) | ❌ No 4G or LTE support |
| ✅ Iconic, compact premium design | ❌ Very small screen by today’s standards |
Final Verdict: Is iPhone 4S Still Worth Owning in 2025?
The iPhone 4S was more than a minor upgrade — it was the polished version of a design icon, introducing features like Siri, 1080p video, and solidifying Apple’s software ecosystem.
In 2025, it’s not suitable for daily use, but for collectors, tech enthusiasts, and nostalgia seekers, it’s a valuable piece of Apple history.
Verdict: Best for collection, memories, and showcasing how far smartphones have come.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Does iPhone 4S support Siri?
Yes! It was the first iPhone to introduce Siri.
Q2: What’s the latest iOS version it supports?
iOS 9.3.6 — released in 2019.
Q3: Can it run WhatsApp or YouTube in 2025?
No, most modern apps no longer support iOS 9.
Q4: Is iPhone 4S 4G compatible?
No. It supports 3G only.
Q5: Can I still use it for calls or texts?
Only if your region still supports 3G networks, which are being phased out globally.
Q6: What’s its resale value in 2025?
Between $30–$250 USD depending on condition (used, boxed, sealed).
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