People keep asking me if they need to shell out for the latest iPhone just to get a new currency symbol. The debate about the UAE Dirham and Omani Rial symbols not being in Unicode 17.0, and the practical implications of waiting for the next update, has real-world consequences for users. Here’s the thing nobody’s talking about—the actual impact on daily use.
The Practical Side
SIDE A: Upgrading for Symbols Getting the latest iPhone model might give you immediate access to new symbols, but it’s an expensive solution to a tiny problem. I’ve seen users justify spending thousands on a new device just for a currency symbol they’ll use maybe once a month. The 2TB iPhone 17 Pro Max is a powerful machine, but if your main reason for buying it is to type the new Dirham symbol, you’re solving the wrong problem. This approach works if you need the symbol right now and can’t wait for software updates.
SIDE B: Waiting for Updates Most users can simply wait for software updates instead of buying new hardware. The UAE Dirham wasn’t in Unicode 17.0, but it will likely appear in the next update around 2027—along with the Omani Rial symbol. This is the sensible approach for the vast majority of users. With approximately 6.5 million iPhone users in Saudi Arabia alone, regional features matter, but an entire device upgrade isn’t always necessary. Waiting for the update means keeping your current device longer, saving money, and avoiding unnecessary tech cycles.
THE REAL DIFFERENCE Here’s what most people miss: the actual frequency of use for these symbols. Even in regions where these currencies are common, most users don’t type these symbols daily. I’ve worked with financial professionals who use multiple currency symbols regularly, and even they don’t justify a device upgrade for this reason alone. The difference isn’t about capability—it’s about timing and practicality. After years of using both approaches, I’ve found that the only people who truly need immediate access to these symbols are those in specific industries like finance or e-commerce who can’t wait for software updates.
THE VERDICT From experience, if you’re in a profession that absolutely requires these symbols right now and can’t wait for the next Unicode update, then upgrading might make sense. But for the 6.5 million iPhone users in Saudi Arabia and similar regions, waiting for the software update is the clear winner. Here’s my take: unless your job depends on these specific symbols immediately, keep your current device and update when the software becomes available. The real cost of tech isn’t just the sticker price—it’s the opportunity cost of what you could have done with that money instead.
The decision often comes down to immediate need versus long-term value. If you can wait a few months for a software update, you’ll save significant money without sacrificing functionality. For most users, the symbols will arrive eventually—just not immediately. Focus on what you actually need from your device, not what marketing makes you think you need.