In a world where technology evolves at lightning speed, it’s fascinating to take a step back and revisit the classics. Today, we unbox an iPhone 6S running its original software version, iOS 9, nearly a decade after its release. The nostalgia of this iconic device is palpable as we explore its features and performance in today’s tech landscape.
The unboxing experience begins with the iPhone 6S in a sleek space gray finish. Upon closer inspection, we notice some wear and tear, including noticeable scratches on the screen and minor dents on the corners. Despite these imperfections, the back panel remains in decent shape, showcasing the durability that Apple is renowned for.
After examining the physical condition, the moment of truth arrives: does the iPhone still hold a charge? To our delight, it powers on and greets us with the iOS 9 setup screen. This version is significant as the iPhone 6S initially launched with iOS 9, and the absence of the ‘slide to unlock’ feature indicates its authenticity. However, activating an iPhone 6S on iOS 9 isn’t as straightforward due to potential server issues with devices running the A9 chip, leading to activation errors.
Activation Challenges and Solutions
Before diving into troubleshooting, we must ensure we have a compatible SIM card. After inserting a T-Mobile SIM, we encounter an activation error, a hurdle that many users face with older devices. Drawing from past experiences with a boxed iPhone 6S, we remain hopeful and attempt reactivation multiple times.
Unfortunately, our initial attempts yield no success. To overcome this, we turn to the Legacy iOS Kit, a tool designed to bypass activation issues. After following a tutorial, we’re thrilled to report that we successfully bypassed the activation error, allowing us to access the iOS 9 home screen without formal activation. With this workaround, we can explore the features of iOS 9 while acknowledging that the device remains technically unactivated.
Exploring iOS 9 Features
Once on the home screen, we venture into the settings to confirm the software version, which reads 9.3.2. A quick reboot reassures us that the device is stable and ready for use. One of the exciting aspects of using this device is the opportunity to experiment with features that have since evolved or disappeared in later iOS versions.
Siri and App Store Functionality
We decide to test Siri, which looks and behaves differently in iOS 9. Upon activation, Siri greets us in a unique interface that showcases the colorful, dynamic design characteristic of this version. This nostalgic experience is a reminder of how far Siri has come since its inception.
Next, we navigate to the App Store to check its functionality. To our surprise, it opens quickly, and we can log into our account. By accessing the purchase tab, we discover the ability to download older versions of apps we’ve previously installed. Excitedly, we attempt to download Temple Run, and the prompt for an older compatible version appears, enabling us to relive this classic game on our iPhone 6S.
Visuals and Performance
The iPhone 6S was a powerhouse in its time, featuring a dual-core A9 chip and 2 GB of RAM, a significant upgrade from its predecessors. While Temple Run may not be resource-intensive, it runs smoothly, showcasing the device’s capabilities even years later.
In terms of visuals, we explore the wallpaper options available in iOS 9. The device offers a selection of dynamic and still wallpapers, although it has fewer options than iOS 8. Among the highlights are the lively fish wallpapers that take full advantage of the phone’s 3D Touch feature, allowing for an interactive experience.
Touch ID and 3D Touch Features
Another feature worth exploring is Touch ID. Curious if the activation bypass affects this functionality, we proceed to register a fingerprint. To our satisfaction, Touch ID works flawlessly, demonstrating the efficiency of the second-generation sensor, which was noted for its speed—sometimes too fast for users to read notifications before accessing the device.
This brings us to the discussion of 3D Touch, a hallmark of the iPhone 6S that allowed for pressure-sensitive interactions. Although 3D Touch was phased out in later models, it introduced features that enhanced user engagement, such as quick access to multitasking and cursor movement on the keyboard.
Camera Capabilities
One of the standout features of the iPhone 6S was its camera. It boasted a 12-megapixel rear camera, an upgrade from the previous 8-megapixel version, allowing for live photos that capture moments before and after the shot. The front-facing camera also saw an upgrade to 5 megapixels, complete with a retina flash for better selfies.
Conclusion
Our journey with the iPhone 6S running iOS 9.3.2 has been both nostalgic and enlightening. Despite the challenges of activation, the use of Legacy iOS Kit provided a unique workaround, allowing us to experience the features that made this device iconic. From the seamless performance of games to the nostalgia of its user interface, the iPhone 6S remains a remarkable piece of technology in the ever-evolving world of smartphones. For those interested in reviving older devices, this experience serves as a testament to the longevity and resilience of Apple’s technology. Stay tuned for more content as we explore other classic devices!
Credit: Mac Throwback
