What essential services will continue working on older iPhones after Apple's security updates?

Services like iMessage, FaceTime, and Apple account sign-in will continue working on older iPhones after the recent security updates.

Which old iOS versions did Apple update to ensure service continuity past 2027?

Apple updated iOS 12, iOS 15, and iOS 16 to ensure service continuity past January 2027.

Can old iPhones like the iPhone 5S still be used for basic functions after Apple's updates?

Yes, old iPhones like the iPhone 5S can still be used for basic functions and as specialized appliances after Apple's updates.

Home / Technology / Apple Revives Ancient iPhones with Crucial Updates

Apple Revives Ancient iPhones with Crucial Updates

27 Jan

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Summary

Apple released security updates for old iOS versions like 12, 15, and 16.
Updates ensure iMessage, FaceTime, and account sign-in work past 2027.
Older devices still find uses as specialized appliances and messaging tools.

Apple Revives Ancient iPhones with Crucial Updates

Apple has issued surprising security updates for devices running older iOS versions, including iOS 12, iOS 15, and iOS 16. These updates are crucial for ensuring that services like iMessage, FaceTime, and Apple account sign-in continue to function beyond January 2027, when the original security certificates were set to expire. Devices as old as the 2013 iPhone 5S and 2014 iPhone 6 are eligible for iOS 12.5.8.

While these updates do not introduce new features or patch security flaws beyond certificate validity, they provide a lifeline for these aging devices. iOS 15.8.6 is available for models like the iPhone 6S and 7, while iOS 16.7.13 supports devices such as the iPhone 8 and X. Although many third-party apps and modern internet browsing are challenging on these devices due to limited RAM and outdated Safari versions, they often find a second life.