It’s definitely not news to you that the iPhone 7 was released by Apple a few weeks ago. No iPhone launch ever goes without heavy press coverage, more than likely due to Apple’s title as the world’s most valuable brand. However, each year many consumers ask whether or not it’s worth the upgrade, especially this year as Apple removed the headphone jack. As an early adopter of the latest and greatest Apple smartphone, I’ve found that it’s well worth the purchase in most cases. 

Here’s why. 

It should be no surprise that the iPhone 7 is faster than its predecessor. Any new device should pack in more speed and power than the generation before it. I came from an iPhone 6 Plus, and I could immediately tell an increase in responsiveness with simple everyday tasks. Apps launch faster. Touch ID reads your fingerprint with one quick touch. Files and apps download quicker. In general, the improvements to performance should be pretty noticeable for anyone that has an iPhone 6 or older. 

Consumers also use their smartphones for listening to music. For some people, this is their primary streaming and playback device. The iPhone has essentially cannibalized the iPod lineup that Apple still offers more than 15 years after its initial launch. The most controversial part of the iPhone 7 is that Apple removed the headphone jack. Many people took to social media to rant about this unwelcome change, however, it’s simply nothing to worry about. Believe it or not, there are four solutions to this issue. 

First, Apple provides a small lightning port to 3.5mm headphone jack adapter with every iPhone 7 for free. That way you can still use your existing headphones, speakers or other accessories that have not upgraded from the century old headphone jack to Lightning technology. Second, Apple provides a brand new set of EarPods in the box that connect via Lightning. I think it’s simple: just use those. And if you want to quickly embrace what the future is moving towards, you can either use your existing wireless headphones or purchase Apple’s new AirPods, which are wireless versions of their classic white EarPods and go on sale later this month for a steep $159. Either way you choose to listen to music, it’s not that big of a deal. 

Another important feature of the iPhone 7 is the IP67 water and dust resistance certification. This means that you can drop your phone into a pool, toilet, sink or puddle and so long as you remove it within 30 minutes, it’ll be completely fine. While Apple does not claim that the phone is waterproof, half an hour should be more than enough time for you to retrieve your iPhone from wherever it shouldn’t be. 

Overall, if you own an iPhone 6 or older, I believe that it is well worth the upgrade if you care about speed, performance and a few of these other features. I can definitely tell a difference in battery life with the larger battery (on average, I get another two to three hours of time per charge), audio volume with the stereo speakers (I compared them to my previous iPhone and they’re definitely louder) and photo quality with the new camera system (which includes a second camera that allows for better optical zoom if you purchase the 5.5” Plus model). For those of you love taking selfies or adore Snapchat, the front-facing camera is also new and improved. 

If you’re not upset with the performance of your existing iPhone, or you’re satisfied using your complicated and lackluster Android, the iPhone 7 may be a product for you to skip. But I think if you choose to upgrade you won’t be disappointed by the significant improvements that Apple has packed into their latest and greatest smartphone.