Apple has long held a reputation for keeping its devices up to date far longer than most competitors, but even its older models eventually reach the end of their lifespan. Recently, the tech giant added another iPhone to its list of obsolete products, a situation that brings some unwelcome news for those who still rely on these aging devices.1
What Does “Obsolete” Mean for iPhone Owners?
When Apple deems a device “obsolete,” it signifies the end of support for that model. This doesn’t mean your iPhone will suddenly stop working, but it does spell trouble if it needs repairs or replacements. Once a model is classified as obsolete, Apple and its authorized service providers no longer stock parts or offer repair services for that device. As Apple states on its website, “Apple discontinues all hardware service for obsolete products, and service providers cannot order parts for obsolete products.”
For those holding onto an older model, the risk is clear—if something breaks, your only options are finding third-party repairs or attempting to fix the phone yourself. However, even these alternatives are far from ideal, as they carry risks of further damage or voiding what’s left of any warranties.
Which iPhone Is Now Obsolete?
The most recent iPhone to join Apple’s obsolete list is the iPhone 5C, a model that originally launched in 2013. This comes after several other older models, such as the iPhone 4S and the iPhone 6 Plus, also reached obsolescence. If you own any of these models, it’s crucial to be aware that official support and repair options are no longer available.
The iPhone 6, another model released in 2014, is on the verge of following suit. While it hasn’t officially been declared obsolete yet, reports indicate that it’s heading in that direction.2 So, if you’re using an iPhone 6, it might be time to consider upgrading.
The Impact of iOS Updates
Aside from hardware support, there’s another significant drawback to owning an obsolete iPhone: your device will no longer receive important iOS updates. Apple typically supports its iPhones with iOS updates for around seven years, but after that, the phones no longer get new features or security patches. As newer models continue to receive these updates, older iPhones are left behind, making them more vulnerable to security risks like zero-day exploits and malware.
For instance, the iPhone 6S and first-generation iPhone SE received their last major update with iOS 15. As iOS 18 is set to launch soon, millions of devices, including these older models, will be left out of the loop. Without these updates, your iPhone may also struggle with compatibility issues, as apps begin to demand newer versions of iOS to run properly.
Security Risks of Obsolete iPhones
The real danger of using an obsolete iPhone lies in its increasing exposure to security vulnerabilities. While Apple occasionally pushes critical security patches to older models, these patches only address the most severe threats, leaving many bugs unresolved. Over time, the risk of your iPhone being hacked grows as cybercriminals target unpatched weaknesses.
Given the rapid pace of technology, a phone that no longer receives software updates is more susceptible to malicious attacks. If you store sensitive information—like financial data or personal photos—on an outdated iPhone, it may be time to consider upgrading to a newer model to protect your data.
How to Prolong the Life of Your iPhone
For those who aren’t ready to part with their older iPhone just yet, there are some steps you can take to keep it running smoothly and securely. According to Apple Scoop, the first step is to focus on maintaining the battery. Over time, battery degradation can cause performance issues and unexpected shutdowns. You can check your battery’s health by going to Settings > Battery > Battery Health. If it’s below 80%, consider replacing the battery, as this can give your phone a significant boost in performance.
Another tip is to regularly clean out unnecessary apps and files to free up storage space. Avoid filling your phone’s memory to the brim, as this can slow down performance. Finally, be extra cautious with security—avoid downloading apps from unknown sources, and use a VPN when connecting to public Wi-Fi to help protect your personal information.
Should You Upgrade?
At some point, holding onto an old iPhone becomes more of a hassle than it’s worth. As apps become incompatible and security risks increase, upgrading to a newer model can provide peace of mind. While newer iPhones can be expensive, even a refurbished model can offer several more years of updates and a noticeable improvement in performance.
If you’re attached to your older device, keeping it clean and secure can extend its lifespan. However, for those worried about missing out on critical updates and the latest features, an upgrade is probably the best option. After all, staying up-to-date is not just about having the latest features but also ensuring your personal data remains secure in an increasingly connected world.
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