Introduction: Apple’s First “S Plus” – Still Reliable?
The iPhone 6S Plus, launched in September 2015, was Apple’s second big-screen phone, but the first in the “S” lineup with boosted performance, camera improvements, and a sturdy build.
It introduced:
- ✅ Apple’s A9 chip
- ✅ 12MP camera with 4K video
- ✅ 3D Touch for pressure-sensitive input
- ✅ Larger battery than iPhone 6S
But in 2025, can it still serve you well? Let’s find out.
iPhone 6S Plus Full Specifications
| 🔧 Feature | 📱 Details |
|---|---|
| Launch Date | September 25, 2015 |
| Network | 2G / 3G / 4G LTE |
| Display | 5.5-inch Retina IPS LCD, 1920×1080 px (~401 ppi) |
| Glass Protection | Ion-strengthened glass, oleophobic coating |
| Processor (SoC) | Apple A9 Dual-core 1.84 GHz (64-bit) |
| Co-Processor | M9 motion coprocessor |
| RAM | 2 GB |
| Storage Options | 16GB / 32GB / 64GB / 128GB (No SD card slot) |
| Rear Camera | 12 MP, f/2.2, OIS, 4K video recording, dual-tone flash |
| Front Camera | 5 MP, Retina Flash, 720p video |
| Battery | 2750 mAh (non-removable) |
| OS | iOS 9 (upgradable to iOS 15.8.2) |
| Fingerprint | ✅ Touch ID (2nd Gen) |
| Build | Aluminum body, glass front |
| Dimensions | 158.2 x 77.9 x 7.3 mm |
| Weight | 192 grams |
| Charging Port | Lightning |
| Colors | Space Gray, Silver, Gold, Rose Gold |
Design & Build Quality
The iPhone 6S Plus has a premium aluminum unibody, curved edges, and a durable 7000-series aluminum frame. At 192g, it feels solid in hand and was built to last.
💎 Even in 2025, the phone feels high-quality and stylish — though bulky compared to modern phones.
Display & 3D Touch
- 5.5″ Full HD (1080p) Retina Display
- ✅ 3D Touch: Pressure-sensitive screen for quick actions and previews
- ✅ Great color accuracy and brightness
- ❌ Thick bezels (feel outdated by today’s standards)
🎬 Still great for watching videos and reading content, especially with its sharp display.
Performance & Software
The Apple A9 chip with 2GB RAM handles basic daily tasks smoothly, such as:
- Calls, SMS, email
- Notes, calendar, YouTube
- Offline media, light browsing
But…
- ❌ No support for iOS 16 or higher
- ❌ Many modern apps (like WhatsApp) no longer support iOS 15
- ❌ Not suitable for heavy multitasking or gaming
💡 Still usable as a backup or basic-use phone in 2025.
Camera Performance
Rear Camera (12MP):
- ✅ 4K video recording @ 30fps
- ✅ Optical Image Stabilization (OIS)
- ✅ Great daylight shots
- ❌ Low-light shots are average
Front Camera (5MP):
- Decent selfies with Retina Flash
- Good for basic video calls and selfies
📷 For social media, casual photography, and videos — still acceptable in 2025.
Battery Life
2750 mAh battery offers:
- ✅ Full-day battery on light use
- ✅ Better backup than iPhone 6S
- ❌ No fast charging
- ❌ No wireless charging
🔄 A battery replacement is recommended if the phone has degraded over time.
Pros & Cons of iPhone 6S Plus
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Solid aluminum build – premium and durable | ❌ Outdated iOS – stuck on iOS 15.8.2 |
| ✅ 12MP rear camera with 4K and OIS | ❌ No support for WhatsApp and some modern apps |
| ✅ Large Full HD Retina Display | ❌ No fast or wireless charging |
| ✅ Reliable Touch ID (2nd gen) | ❌ No expandable storage |
| ✅ Smooth performance for basic usage | ❌ Bulky and heavy at 192g |
| ✅ 3D Touch – unique feature (discontinued in newer iPhones) | ❌ Limited app compatibility in 2025 |
Final Verdict: Should You Use or Buy iPhone 6S Plus in 2025?
The iPhone 6S Plus was a game-changer in 2015 and still has some usability today — but only for very basic needs.
Recommended for:
- ✅ Light users (calls, SMS, offline apps)
- ✅ People looking for a backup phone
- ✅ iPhone collectors or nostalgia fans
Not recommended for:
- ❌ Regular smartphone users
- ❌ Gamers, streamers, or heavy multitaskers
- ❌ Those relying on apps like WhatsApp, banking, etc.
🏆 Verdict: Use it as a secondary phone. For daily use, it’s better to invest in a newer model.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Does iPhone 6S Plus support WhatsApp in 2025?
No. WhatsApp no longer supports iOS 15 or lower.
Q2: Can iPhone 6S Plus be used for gaming?
Only very light games. Modern titles like PUBG, COD won’t run smoothly.
Q3: What’s the current iOS version for iPhone 6S Plus?
iOS 15.8.2 — it doesn’t support iOS 16 or above.
Q4: Can the battery be replaced?
Yes. You can get it replaced through Apple or third-party repair centers.
Q5: What’s the resale value in 2025?
Roughly $40–$80 depending on condition and storage.
Q6: Is the iPhone 6S Plus waterproof?
No. It has no official water resistance rating.
