Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the unexpected resurgence of the iPhone XS among young consumers, despite being considered outdated, highlighting its appeal as a "timeless" device in the context of rapid technological advancements and changing consumer preferences [3][5][20]. Group 1: iPhone XS Resurgence - The iPhone XS, once criticized for being "mediocre," has gained popularity among young users, who now regard it as a "timeless" device [5][20]. - The device's affordability in the second-hand market, priced around 1000 yuan, makes it attractive to budget-conscious students [10][20]. - Young consumers are drawn to the iPhone XS for its photo quality, particularly its ability to capture images with a "real-life feel," attributed to the Smart HDR technology introduced at its launch [14][16]. Group 2: Changing Consumer Preferences - The article notes a shift in young people's preferences towards nostalgic and retro aesthetics, which has contributed to the iPhone XS's renewed popularity [19][20]. - Despite the release of newer models like the iPhone 17, the iPhone XS continues to be favored for its perceived value and unique photographic qualities [7][10]. - The article emphasizes that the appeal of the iPhone XS is not solely based on its technical specifications but rather on the emotional connection and lifestyle it represents for young users [22][26]. Group 3: Industry Trends - The smartphone industry is experiencing a stagnation in innovation, with manufacturers increasingly resorting to incremental upgrades rather than groundbreaking advancements [21][22]. - The article suggests that the homogenization of smartphone designs has led consumers to seek out older models like the iPhone XS, which stand out in a sea of similar devices [21][22]. - The narrative around the iPhone XS reflects broader trends in consumer behavior, where social media influences and emotional resonance play significant roles in purchasing decisions [26][27].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the resurgence of the iPhone XS series among younger consumers, highlighting its unexpected popularity despite being considered outdated and the anticipation surrounding the upcoming foldable iPhone from Apple. Group 1: Foldable iPhone Anticipation - The foldable iPhone is rumored to begin production in Q3 or Q4 of 2025, utilizing technology from Samsung [4] - There is uncertainty about whether this potentially "most expensive" iPhone will sell well, even Apple CEO Tim Cook cannot provide a definitive answer [5] Group 2: iPhone XS Series Resurgence - The iPhone XS series, once deemed "ordinary," has gained a second wave of popularity, especially among young consumers who view it as a timeless device [7][8] - The iPhone XS series was recently added to Apple's "obsolete products" list, marking its seven-year anniversary since launch [11] - The second-hand market for the iPhone XS is thriving, with many buyers seeking it for its affordability and perceived value [17][18] Group 3: Photography Appeal - Young users are drawn to the iPhone XS for its photo quality, often referring to it as a "camera that captures real life" [19][23] - The Smart HDR technology introduced with the iPhone XS is credited for its appealing photo output, which resonates with the current trend of capturing authentic moments [24] - Despite newer models being available, the iPhone XS continues to be favored for its unique photographic style, contrasting with the more uniform outputs of newer devices [27][36] Group 4: Market Trends and Consumer Behavior - The article notes a shift in consumer preferences, with younger generations gravitating towards older models like the iPhone XS due to their distinct aesthetic and emotional value [30][41] - The smartphone market is experiencing a stagnation in innovation, leading to a homogenization of new models, which diminishes consumer excitement [34][36] - The article emphasizes that the appeal of the iPhone XS is not solely based on its specifications but rather on the social and emotional connections it fosters among users [39][42]

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the evolving perception of the iPhone XS, which has gained unexpected popularity among younger consumers despite being considered outdated, while anticipation builds for the upcoming foldable iPhone [3][4][10]. Group 1: iPhone XS Popularity - The iPhone XS, initially criticized for being "mediocre," has seen a resurgence in interest, particularly among younger users who appreciate its camera capabilities and aesthetic appeal [4][6]. - The device's second-hand market remains active, with many young consumers seeking it out for its perceived value and unique photographic qualities [5][6]. - The Smart HDR technology introduced with the iPhone XS has contributed to its reputation as a "camera phone," making it desirable for social media content creation [6][9]. Group 2: Market Dynamics and Consumer Behavior - Despite the release of newer models like the iPhone 17, the iPhone XS continues to attract attention due to its affordability and sufficient performance for budget-conscious consumers [5][10]. - The article highlights a shift in consumer preferences, where the aesthetic and emotional connection to older models like the iPhone XS outweighs the technical advancements of newer devices [9][12]. - The phenomenon of older models gaining popularity reflects a broader trend in the smartphone industry, where innovation has plateaued, leading to consumer fatigue with incremental upgrades [10][11]. Group 3: Industry Trends - The smartphone market is experiencing a stagnation in innovation, with manufacturers increasingly relying on hardware upgrades and design tweaks rather than groundbreaking features [10][11]. - The article suggests that the current landscape of smartphone offerings has led to a homogenization of products, prompting consumers to seek out unique or nostalgic options like the iPhone XS [10][12]. - The rise of retro and vintage aesthetics in technology reflects a cultural shift among younger consumers, who are drawn to products that evoke a sense of authenticity and personal connection [9][12].

Group 1 - Apple's first foldable iPhone is rumored to begin production in late Q3 or early Q4 of 2025, utilizing technology from competitor Samsung [1] - The iPhone XS series, released in 2018, has been added to Apple's list of obsolete products, sparking significant online discussion [1] - Despite the release of newer models, the iPhone XS remains popular among younger consumers, who appreciate its photo quality and affordability in the second-hand market [2][6] Group 2 - The iPhone XS is praised for its Smart HDR technology, which enhances photo quality, making it appealing to users seeking a "real-life" feel in their images [16] - The device's popularity has surged due to a shift in consumer preferences towards vintage aesthetics and emotional connections with older models [19] - Apple's recent innovations have been criticized for lacking significant differentiation, leading to a perception of stagnation in the smartphone market [20][22] Group 3 - The iPhone XS's performance, despite being several years old, remains competitive due to its A12 chip and design, making it a viable option for budget-conscious consumers [6][19] - The trend of older models gaining renewed interest highlights a broader consumer desire for authenticity and emotional resonance in technology [24] - The notion of a "perfect" smartphone is challenged, emphasizing that true value lies in how well a device meets individual lifestyle needs [25]