Reasons why the iPhone 4S is selling out.

Despite being released 15 years ago, the iPhone 4S has unexpectedly made a comeback on e-commerce platforms in China with surprisingly low prices.

The iPhone 4S unexpectedly emerged as a phenomenon in early 2026. Photo: Ars Technica .

Old iPhone 4S models are making a surprising comeback on e-commerce platforms, despite their outdated specifications and lack of support for popular apps. Data from several Pinduoduo stores shows that over 3,000 units were sold in 30 days, with pre-orders exceeding 28,000.

Many people might wonder why a 15-year-old product, which can only be upgraded to iOS 7 and cannot install newer versions of apps like Google, Facebook, or YouTube, is so appealing.

The nostalgic value and legacy of Steve Jobs

According to Lei Technology, the sudden popularity of the iPhone 4S wasn't due to any unusual marketing tactics. These buyers may have genuinely liked the phone, or more accurately, they liked its "nostalgic feel."

The iPhone 4S, released 15 years ago, was Apple's last phone to feature a 3.5-inch Retina display. For many born in the early 1990s, it was their first experience with Apple, so it's not surprising that they feel a bit nostalgic about this older model.

The tech nostalgia movement has spread to iPhones. Photo: iMore.

In a world of ever-changing technology, the iPhone 4S is still considered an icon of industrial design. With its steel frame and two reinforced glass panels, this device evokes memories of Apple's peak under the legendary Steve Jobs.

For many users, owning an iPhone 4S is like a "return ticket" back to childhood or youth.

"Holding this compact device in my hand, the solid feel and the exquisite details remind me of the first time I longed to own one but couldn't afford it. Now, for the price of a fast-food meal, I can fulfill my childhood dream," commented a buyer on Pinduoduo.

Still valid

Currently, the iPhone 4S is outdated. Due to software limitations, this model only supports up to iOS 7, while most used devices on the market are still stuck on iOS 6, making it impossible to install basic applications.

Nevertheless, this phone still found its own niche. With its compact 3.5-inch screen, it easily transforms into a music player or a voice recorder and alarm clock on a desk. In particular, the limitations of the older operating system, where time-consuming apps like Facebook or TikTok cannot function, inadvertently became an effective way for users to break their social media addiction.

An iPhone 4S with classic games pre-installed is being offered for sale at the equivalent of approximately 500,000 Vietnamese dong. Photo: Facebook.

In addition, the iPhone 4S has been revived as a mini gaming device. On Pinduoduo, these phones often come pre-installed with a series of classic games from the past, such as "Where's My Water?" or "Fruit Ninja".

Users can even relive classic titles pre-installed, such as "Infinity Blade," a game once used to showcase the hardware power of the iPhone, but which was removed from the App Store in 2018.

Photos taken with an iPhone 4S are taking over Chinese social media. Photo: XiaoHongShu.

The "Retro" trend, popular among young people, also contributed to the surge in sales. Young people are looking for the iPhone 4S to use as a fashion accessory or as an older digital camera.

The somewhat grainy image quality and less vibrant colors of the 8MP camera on the iPhone 4S inadvertently create a distinct artistic style, far different from the overly processed AI photos on today's newer smartphones.

According to Lei Technology , the key to the iPhone 4S's resurgence is its incredibly low price. At only around $8 (approximately 200,000 VND), the device has become a true "tech gadget."

Some enthusiasts buy the device to tinker with and fulfill personal projects. Meanwhile, from a more practical perspective, some parents choose the iPhone 4S as a communication device for their children to limit distractions from social media and games.

Source: https://znews.vn/ly-do-iphone-4s-chay-hang-post1623014.html