Best smartphones for senior citizens: Apple iPhone 17, Pixel 9a, Samsung Galaxy A17 and more

Senior citizens seeking smartphones in 2026 can choose from multiple options that prioritise ease of use and accessibility. These phones deliver a user-friendly experience with features designed for older adults who want to stay connected with family and friends.

Whether you are looking for a smartphone with a large, easy-to-read display, loud and clear audio for better call quality, or extended battery life to reduce charging frequency, brands such as Apple, Samsung, Google, and others offer a range of options. Before finalising your purchase, here is some advice on what to look for in a smartphone for senior citizens:

What to look for in smartphones for senior citizens

While choosing a smartphone for senior citizens, several factors make the experience more comfortable and accessible.

A large display with adjustable font sizes is essential for reading messages, contacts, and menus without strain. Loud, clear audio and hearing-aid compatibility improve call quality and ensure conversations are easy to follow. Long battery life reduces the hassle of frequent charging, which can be inconvenient for older adults.

Additional features such as simplified user interfaces, emergency calling options, and accessibility settings for vision and hearing can further enhance the experience. Here’s a curated list of phones expected to deliver a comfortable experience in 2026:

Apple iPhone 17

Apple's iPhone 17 brings the company's renowned ease of use and accessibility features to a more affordable price point than the Pro models.

The device runs iOS 26 with Apple Intelligence and comprehensive accessibility options, making it particularly suitable for senior users.The iPhone 17 features a 6.3-inch ProMotion display with 120Hz refresh rate and a record-high 3,000 nits brightness, making it easy to read in all lighting conditions. The display can be customised with larger text sizes and bold fonts through iOS accessibility settings. The thinner borders provide more screen real estate for content while maintaining a comfortable grip.iOS offers extensive accessibility features, including the VoiceOver screen reader, Display & Text Size adjustments, Spoken Content, and Audio Descriptions. The phone supports Made for iPhone hearing aids and includes features such as Live Captions and Sound Recognition that alert users to important sounds, such as doorbells or alarms.For the first time, all iPhone 17 models feature 48MP Fusion cameras with both wide and ultra-wide lenses.

The new 18MP Centre Stage front camera automatically keeps users in frame during FaceTime and WhatsApp video calls, making it easier to stay connected with family. The camera works in both portrait and landscape orientations.The A19 chip delivers smooth performance for everyday tasks like messaging, browsing, and video calls. The improved battery provides up to 30 hours of video playback. The phone features Ceramic Shield 2 protection on both front and back, offering 3–4x better scratch and crack resistance than previous models.Apple's N1 wireless chip provides improved Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6 connectivity. The eSIM-only design means no physical SIM card management. The phone comes with seven years of software updates, ensuring long-term security and access to new features.Key Specifications

Apple iPhone 17 price in India (on Flipkart)

Google Pixel 9a 5G

Google has positioned the Pixel 9a as an accessible smartphone with excellent camera capabilities and a clean software experience. The device is powered by the Tensor G4 chip and runs Android 15 with seven years of software and security updates.The Google Pixel 9a features a 6.3-inch Actua display with a 120Hz refresh rate and 2,700 nits peak brightness, ensuring excellent visibility in bright sunlight. The display size strikes a balance between readability and one-handed use. Android's accessibility features include the TalkBack screen reader, Live Caption for all media, and Live Transcribe for real-time transcription of conversations.The redesigned build features IP68 water- and dust-resistance, protecting the phone from accidental spills and splashes.

The phone includes biometric security options and a simplified setup process to make it easier for first-time smartphone users.On the camera front, the Pixel 9a features a dual-camera system with a 48MP main camera and a 13MP ultrawide lens. The 13MP front camera supports clear video calls with family and friends. The phone introduces Macro Focus to the A-series and includes AI-powered computational photography features like Add Me, Best Take, Magic Editor, Night Sight, and Magic Eraser that simplify photo editing.The device is equipped with a 5,100mAh battery that supports both wired (23W) and wireless charging, providing all-day battery life for typical senior use, including calls, messaging, and occasional browsing. The Tensor G4 chip with 8GB RAM ensures smooth performance for everyday tasks.Connectivity options include 5G, Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, and NFC. The phone includes Google's suite of services and family-focused features, making it easy to share photos, calendars, and location with loved ones.Key Specifications

Google Pixel 9a price in India (on Flipkart)

Samsung Galaxy A17 5G

Samsung has expanded its Galaxy A-series with the Galaxy A17, a reliable mid-range smartphone that offers "Easy Mode" support for a simplified user interface. The smartphone packs an Exynos chipset and features an FHD+ display, making it an excellent balance of features and simplicity.The Samsung Galaxy A17 features a 6.7-inch FHD+ display with 1080x2340 pixel resolution and a 90 Hz refresh rate, providing smooth scrolling and comfortable viewing.

The display is protected with Corning Gorilla Glass Victus. The large screen is ideal for seniors who want to read messages, browse the web, or watch videos without eye strain.Samsung's One UI offers Easy Mode, which simplifies the home screen with larger icons, bigger fonts, and a streamlined layout. The interface reduces complexity and makes essential functions more accessible. The phone includes Samsung's accessibility features, such as Voice Assistant, magnification gestures, and high-contrast fonts.The smartphone is powered by an octa-core Exynos 1330 chipset paired with up to 8GB RAM, providing adequate performance for everyday tasks. Storage options include 128GB and 256GB variants, with microSD card support up to 2TB for additional space.The Galaxy A17 sports a 50MP main camera, a 5MP ultra-wide-angle lens, and a 2MP macro camera. The 13MP front camera delivers clear selfies and video calls. The camera app includes simplified shooting modes that make photography straightforward.The smartphone is equipped with a 5,000mAh battery and 25W fast charging, ensuring all-day battery life. The IP54 rating provides resistance to dust and water, while the side-mounted fingerprint sensor offers convenient security. The phone runs Android 15 with Samsung's One UI layer.Key Specifications

Samsung Galaxy A17 price in India (on Amazon)

Realme C61

The Realme C61 is an affordable smartphone designed for durability and simplicity.

The device features an integrated metallic frame and is TUV Rheinland-certified, with ArmorShell protection.The smartphone features a large display that makes it easy to read messages and navigate menus. The circular-shaped front camera cutout is minimally intrusive, maximising screen space for content. Realme's custom Android 14-based UI offers a clean interface suitable for first-time smartphone users.The Realme C61 features IP54 dust and water resistance, protecting the phone from everyday accidents and light splashes. The rear dual-camera system provides basic photography capabilities for capturing family moments and sharing photos.The device is powered by a UNISOC Speedtrum T612 processor, paired with up to 4GB of RAM and up to 128GB of internal storage. The 5,000 mAh battery capacity ensures the phone can last a full day or more on a single charge, reducing charging frequency.

The phone supports 45W charging for quick top-ups when needed.The Realme C61 offers good value with its clear display, long battery life, and durable build quality, making it suitable for seniors who want a reliable smartphone at an affordable price point without complex features.Key Specifications

Realme C61 price in India (on Flipkart)

Redmi A5

Xiaomi has expanded its entry-level smartphone lineup with the Redmi A5, designed for first-time smartphone users.

The smartphone features a large HD+ display and runs Android 15, with 2 years of OS updates and 4 years of security patches.The Redmi A5 features a 6.88-inch HD+ display with a 720x1680-pixel resolution and up to a 120Hz refresh rate, providing smooth scrolling for comfortable browsing. The large screen makes text and icons easy to see. The display includes TÜV Rheinland-certified eye protection, reducing strain during extended use.The smartphone is powered by an octa-core Unisoc T7250 chipset and up to 4GB of RAM. Storage options include 64GB and 128GB, expandable up to 2TB via microSD card. This provides ample space for photos, videos, and apps without worrying about storage limits.The affordable Redmi smartphone features a 32MP rear camera with an f/2.0 aperture for capturing clear photos in good lighting, along with a secondary camera. The 8MP front camera supports video calls with family members.

The simple camera interface makes photography straightforward.The Redmi A5 is backed by a 5,200mAh battery with 15W charging support, ensuring the phone can comfortably last through a day or more of typical usage. The side-mounted fingerprint sensor enables convenient, secure unlocking.The phone is available in Pondicherry Blue, Just Black, and Lake Green. With its simple Android interface, large display, and durable design, the Redmi A5 is ideal for seniors who are transitioning to their first smartphone.Key Specifications

Redmi A5 price in India (on Flipkart)