What iPhones Still Get iOS Updates: A Guide

If you're an iPhone user, you might be wondering which models still get iOS updates. The answer is that Apple supports its iPhones for up to 6 years after their release.

The latest iPhones to get iOS updates are the iPhone 13 series, which was released in 2021. This means that if you have an iPhone 13, 13 mini, 13 Pro, or 13 Pro Max, you can expect to receive the latest iOS updates.

Apple typically stops supporting older iPhone models after 5-6 years, but some models may continue to receive security updates for a longer period. For example, the iPhone 6s and 6s Plus, which were released in 2015, still receive security updates, but no longer receive feature updates.

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Apple's support duration for iPhones can be a bit confusing, but it's generally around five to six years for major iOS updates. This means you'll get access to new features, security patches, and performance improvements for an extended time.

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Typically, once Apple stops releasing software updates for a model, hardware support continues for a few more years. However, the exact timeline can vary depending on the iPhone model.

Flagship devices like the iPhone Pro series may receive slightly longer support than budget models like the iPhone SE. This distinction makes higher-end models a better long-term investment, as they are typically supported for a longer period than their budget counterparts.

Compared to Android devices, which often receive updates for only two to three years, iPhones are a solid choice for those looking for longevity.

Here's a rough guide to Apple's support duration for iPhones:

Keep in mind that support lifecycles can vary depending on the iPhone model, and it's always a good idea to check your iPhone's support status by going to the settings menu and navigating to "Software Update."

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The oldest iPhone models still receiving iOS updates are the iPhone XS and XS Max, which were released in 2018. These devices can still run the latest iOS version, but users might notice some trade-offs in performance and battery life.

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While Apple continues to support these older models, users should be aware of the limitations that come with using outdated software. The iPhone XS and XS Max are now classified as "vintage" devices by Apple, which means they no longer receive software updates, leaving them vulnerable to security threats.

As of 2024, the iPhone XS and XS Max are the oldest iPhone models still receiving iOS updates. This is in contrast to other iPhone models, such as the iPhone 5S and iPhone 6, which are now considered "obsolete" and are no longer eligible for hardware service or repairs from Apple.

If you're considering upgrading from an older iPhone model, it's essential to weigh the pros and cons. While older devices can still function, they may face heightened security risks and limited repair options. On the other hand, upgrading to a newer iPhone model can provide access to the latest features and security patches.

Here's a list of the oldest iPhone models still receiving iOS updates:

Keep in mind that these devices may not receive the latest features and security patches, and their performance may be impacted by the demands of newer software.

To be eligible for iOS updates, your iPhone must be at least 5 years old or less, as Apple typically stops supporting devices that are older than that.

If your iPhone is still within the 5-year mark, you're in luck, because it's likely to receive the latest iOS updates. In fact, the iPhone 6s, which was released in 2015, is still receiving updates as of 2022.

The iPhone 8, iPhone X, and later models are also eligible for iOS updates, which means you can expect to receive the latest security patches and features on your device.

However, if your iPhone is an older model like the iPhone 6 or earlier, it's unlikely to receive iOS updates, and you should consider upgrading to a newer device.

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FaceTime gets a boost with iOS 15, allowing for spatial audio, which makes it seem like a person's voice is coming from their position on the screen.

This feature requires an A12 Bionic chip, which means older iPhones won't be able to support it.

The interactive 3D globe and detailed city views in Maps are also exclusive to A12 Bionic-powered devices, starting with the iPhone XR.

Immersive walking directions, which use augmented reality to point you in the right direction with on-screen overlays, won't work on older phones.

Live Text and Visual Look Up are two features that require a fair bit of neural processing, which is beyond the scope of the A11 Bionic chip and earlier.

On-device Siri requests and on-device dictation are also features that require a chip with neural processing power, only found in more recent iPhones.

The Wallet app gets a new feature in iOS 15, allowing you to store digital versions of keys, but only on iPhone XS or later.

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