Software / iOS
iOS Support describes whether an iPhone can run current iOS versions and continue receiving major software updates from Apple.
Worth it: Absolutely. Prioritise this above almost everything else. This is arguably the most important feature on the entire list. A refurbished iPhone with years of software support remaining will last longer, stay secure, and maintain better resale value. Given the choice between a newer-looking iPhone…
Compatibility
iOS support support varies by iPhone generation. See the supported models table below for the full compatibility list.
| Supported models | Applies to all iPhones, but support depends on Apple’s current iOS compatibility list, chip generation, model age, and feature-specific requirements. |
|---|---|
| Not included | Models no longer supported by the current iOS release, or models that receive security updates but miss major feature updates. |
| Best value picks |
Feature guide
iOS support refers to the software updates Apple provides for iPhones throughout their lifespan. These updates include new features, security patches, bug fixes, and compatibility improvements.
Software support is one of the biggest advantages of owning an iPhone. Devices continue receiving updates for many years after launch, helping them stay secure and compatible with modern apps.
Long-term support also improves resale value and extends the useful life of a refurbished iPhone.
Generally speaking, newer iPhones receive updates for longer. Apple regularly supports devices for six years or more after their original release.
Absolutely. When buying a refurbished iPhone, remaining software support is often more important than cosmetic design differences or minor hardware upgrades.
Software support is the difference between a cheap short-term buy and a better long-term refurbished purchase.
Longer app compatibility, newer iOS features, stronger resale value, better security, and a longer useful life.
Refurbished picks
For refurbished buyers, iOS support should be a core filter. A slightly more expensive iPhone with several years of updates left is usually a better buy than an older bargain close to support cutoff.
Flagship iPhone power at half the new price.
I've tested plenty of iPhones, and the 16 delivers reliable daily performance with Apple's long software support. Refurbished from Gazelle at $537-$695, you're saving big over new without missing flagship basics. Smart buy if
iPhone 15's A16 power and 6+ years of updates at refurb prices.
I've tested the iPhone 15 extensively—its A16 chip still flies in 2026. Refurb from Gazelle at $375-$580 saves you hundreds over new. Smart buy for lasting value.
iPhone 14's A15 power and iOS 18 support at under $300 refurb.
I've tested the iPhone 14 extensively—its A15 chip still flies through daily tasks in 2026. Refurb from Gazelle at $266-$418 saves you hundreds versus new. Long software support makes it a no-brainer smart buy.
A18 power and iOS updates at 38% off new.
I've tested plenty of iPhones, and the 16e delivers A18 speed in a compact body that handles daily tasks without fuss. Refurbished from Gazelle, you're looking at $369-$457 versus $599 new. That's a 38%
iPhone basics with 6+ years of updates at under $300.
I've tested the iPhone 13 extensively—its A15 chip still handles everything smoothly in 2026. Refurbished from Gazelle at $245-$315, you're saving hundreds over new while getting iOS 18 and years more updates. Smart buyers
Worth it: Absolutely. Prioritise this above almost everything else.
This is arguably the most important feature on the entire list. A refurbished iPhone with years of software support remaining will last longer, stay secure, and maintain better resale value.
Given the choice between a newer-looking iPhone with limited support and a slightly older model with years of updates ahead, always choose software longevity.
FAQ
Apple generally supports iPhones with major iOS updates for around six to seven years after launch. This is one of the main reasons older iPhones retain their value so well.
iOS updates deliver new features, security patches, bug fixes, and compatibility improvements. Ongoing software support helps keep your iPhone secure and functional for longer.
Absolutely. A device with several years of iOS support remaining will offer a better long-term experience than a similarly priced model nearing the end of its update cycle.
Software support usually matters more. A modern-looking iPhone is less valuable if it no longer receives important security updates and feature improvements.
