![]() ![]() Apps list the minimum version of iOS required under the “Compatibility” section at the bottom of their App Store listing. Some third-party apps may also stop working since they will rely on newer versions of iOS. The best way to ensure these features remain functional is to use the latest software on all of your devices. For example, Continuity features allow you to pick up where you left off on a Mac or an iPad, or copy something on your iPhone and paste it on your Mac (and vice versa). Some Apple features might stop working altogether or behave erratically. You might miss out on new features that arrive with emerging technologies or formats like spatial audio using Dolby Atmos that was delivered via an update prior to the release of iOS 15. If you use AirPods you may miss out on features that arrived after launch, like one that allows your earbuds switch between devices automatically. In iOS 15, Notes introduced a feature that allows you to use tags to organize things, but on older versions of the Notes app any notes that use tags will be hidden completely. In the case of Safari, you might find that some websites no longer render or behave in a predictable manner. This can range from simple tweaks and enhancements to the iOS formula to major new versions of in-built apps like Notes and Safari. In addition to exposing yourself to security problems, you’ll also miss out on new features that Apple rolls out each fall. An attack could even cause your device to stop working altogether (as was the case with an iMessage exploit that was patched in 2019). These could allow attackers to run unsigned code on your device through a web browser which could lead to personal information becoming compromised. Security risks are by far the biggest concern with outdated software of any kind. The Problem With Outdated Versions of iOS ![]() For that reason running an older device still presents a security risk, particularly if the device is stuck on a much older version of iOS. Smaller bugs and lower priority security issues will go unaddressed since Apple focuses development on the latest version of iOS. Unfortunately, these updates only target the most critical problems. This update addressed known security issues in Safari and other areas of the operating system. You can take a look at Apple’s security updates log to see evidence of this.įor example, iOS 12.5.5 was released in September 2021, targeting the iPhone 5s and iPhone 6 (plus some older iPad and iPod Touch models), around the same time that iOS 15 was rolling out. The good news is that even devices that are no longer receiving major iOS upgrades receive over-the-air updates from time to time. Unsupported Devices May Receive Security Updates It’s possible that newer devices will last even longer than older ones, especially as the hardware that powers the iPhone becomes more efficient and capable. It’s difficult to predict when this will be even with current estimates, since only Apple can tell. This means you won’t be able to upgrade to the shiny new version each fall. Eventually, Apple will stop supporting your device with major iOS updates. But age comes for us all eventually, and your iPhone is no different.
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