How Long Does Apple Support iPhone?

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Apple is pretty good with support for its iPhone; most models tend to get 6-8 years of iOS updates which is way better than anything in the Android space.

But because there are now so many iPhones in circulation, ranging from new models like the iPhone 16 and iPhone 15 to older models like the iPhone 11 and iPhone 13, people are often curious how long Apple will support the model they have.

And this is why we put together this list; it covers all the questions you might have about how long Apple will support your iPhone model or how long you’ll be able to run one if you decide to buy one.

And this will help you find the best iPhone for your exact needs.

Basically, things can get confusing when it comes to iOS updates and how long your particular iPhone will get updates for.

iOS Features and Performance Over Time

Comparison of iOS Features by Version

Apple’s iOS updates are known for introducing significant new features and improvements. From security enhancements to innovative functionalities, each iOS version brings something new to the table.

For instance, iOS 15 introduced Focus mode, which allows users to customize notifications based on their current activity, and improved FaceTime with spatial audio and grid view.

Meanwhile, iOS 16 brought the Lock Screen customization feature, giving users more control over the aesthetics and functionality of their lock screens.

These updates not only enhance the user experience but also improve security.

For example, iOS 14 introduced App Tracking Transparency, a major privacy feature that requires apps to ask for user permission before tracking their data across other apps and websites.

With each iteration, Apple also optimizes system performance, making the OS more efficient and responsive.

However, not all features are available on older devices. For instance, the iPhone 6s, while compatible with iOS 15, does not support features like the Depth Effect on Lock Screen wallpapers or Live Text in photos due to hardware limitations.

This differentiation in feature availability means newer devices enjoy the full suite of iOS capabilities, while older models may only access a subset.

Performance Metrics for Older Devices

As iPhones age, their ability to fully leverage the latest iOS updates can diminish. While Apple strives to keep older devices functional, certain limitations are inevitable.

Performance metrics such as battery life, processing speed, and app compatibility can all be affected by new updates.

For example, while the iPhone 7 can run iOS 15, users might notice a slight decrease in battery life and slower app launch times compared to newer models like the iPhone 13.

This is often due to the increased demands of the newer software on older hardware components. Additionally, some resource-intensive apps may not perform as smoothly, leading to longer load times or occasional crashes.

In terms of battery performance, older models may experience more significant battery drain after updating to a new iOS version.

This is partly because the latest features and background processes are optimized for the latest hardware, which can handle more intensive tasks efficiently.

Apple does provide Battery Health tools to help users manage their device’s performance, including the option to enable or disable performance throttling.

Despite these challenges, Apple’s commitment to supporting older devices means they still receive critical security updates and most new features, keeping them viable for everyday use.

However, users of these devices should manage their expectations regarding performance and consider potential limitations when deciding to update.

Why Does Apple Stop Supporting Certain iPhone Models?

Of course, older models are phased out after a while. Apple’s iOS updates scale with each new iteration. New features place new demands on your iPhone’s internal components.

Once an iPhone gets too old, it can no longer adequately support iOS. This is when support stops.

With Apple’s modern iPhones, you will get at least six years’ worth of iOS updates, so my advice would be to buy the latest iPhone.

Or, if you want to save some money, pick yourself up one of this year’s best refurbished iPhones – they’re loads cheaper than buying new, they’re better for the environment (less e-waste), and they’ll get iOS updates for years to come.

This is the average, although it could change, depending on features that Apple adds to iOS. But if you’re running something like the iPhone 12, you’ll likely be getting iOS updates until at least 2027, taking you up to iOS 21.

Similarly, the iPhone 11 will likely get iOS updates until 2026; this assumes that iOS as a platform remains unchanged. A big shift in the technology it is based on, as Apple just did with its Macs, could change things for everybody. But this isn’t likely.

Will My iPhone Get The Next iOS Update?

Rather than list every single iPhone and answer whether or not they’ll get the next few versions of iOS, I’ve decided to put everything inside a handy infographic.

Please note: these are approximations based on Apple’s historical support metrics; things could change, handsets could get more or fewer updates. This data is updated every year though, so check back for more information once new models are launched.

Is iPhone Support Better Than Android?

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One of the main reasons people buy iPhones and use them exclusively is because of Apple’s support.

iOS updates are never a worry during the first several or more years of owning an iPhone. You know that as soon as a new update is released your phone will get it.

This does not happen in the Android space.

When Google releases a new Android update, it can take up to several months or more for brands like Samsung or OnePlus to issue said update to their respective phones.

But both Google and Samsung have now committed to 7 years’ worth of Android updates on select models. But it is not as straightforward as it is on iPhone.

With Google, its mainline Pixel phones (not A series) models from the Pixel 8 onwards will get 7 major Android updates. With Samsung, it applies to its Galaxy S, Galaxy Z Fold, and Galaxy Z Flip models (6th generation onwards).

Google Pixel users will get updates the fastest, though, while Samsung users will have to wait until Samsung has compiled the latest build of Android with its One UI software – this can take as long as several months from the release of a new build of Android.

iOS Updates For Older iPhones

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Is the iPhone X Still Supported?

• No. As of the end of 2023, the iPhone X will no longer receive iOS updates.
• Impact: Without updates, the iPhone X will become vulnerable to security issues and app incompatibility, making it obsolete.

Is the iPhone XR Still Supported?

• No. The iPhone XR will no longer receive iOS updates.
• Impact: Similar to the iPhone X, the iPhone XR will face security vulnerabilities and app issues without updates.

What Should I Get Instead of the iPhone X or iPhone XR?

• Near-term Options: iPhone XS and iPhone XS Max (Support expected to end in 2024).
• Better Options:
  • iPhone 11 Pro Max: A solid choice if 5G isn’t necessary.
  • iPhone 12 Pro or iPhone 13: Best options if 5G is a priority. These models have several years of support left.

Is the iPhone 8 or iPhone 8 Plus Still Supported?

• No. The iPhone 8 and iPhone 8 Plus are no longer supported with iOS updates.
• Impact: These models will also face security risks and app compatibility issues.

What Should I Get Instead of the iPhone X, iPhone XR, iPhone 8, or iPhone 8 Plus?

• Near-term Options: iPhone XS and iPhone XS Max (Support expected to end in 2025).
• Better Options:
  • iPhone 11 Pro Max: A solid choice if 5G isn’t necessary.
  • iPhone 12 Pro or iPhone 13: Best options if 5G is a priority. These models have several years of support left.

Security and Privacy Considerations

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Impact of Security Updates

One of the most often overlooked aspects of support relates to security features. Everybody wants the latest and greatest features but far too few people are aware of the problems that outdated software can create from a security and privacy perspective. 

Exploits happen. All the time. Hackers are always trying to find vulnerabilities inside operating systems, backdoors, ways of forcing their way into your personal data. And the efficacy of these hackers is only getting better, thanks to the help of AI. 

If you’re not running the latest software (or security update), you become vulnerable to these hackers.

For instance, older iPhone that can’t upgrade past a certain version of iOS are left vulnerable to known exploits that newer versions have patched.

A notable example occurred in 2019, when a vulnerability in iOS 12 allowed attackers to bypass lock screen security and access sensitive information.

Apple quickly addressed this issue with an update, highlighting the importance of keeping devices current.

Bottom line? Once your iPhone stops receiving security and iOS updates, it is time to upgrade to a new model. This is usually 8-10 years into an iPhone’s lifecycle, so you’ve got plenty of value for money at this point.

Privacy Features

Big tech companies like Meta and Google thrive on your personal data. They collect it, store it, and use it to build profiles about you which they can then sell onto advertisers – this is their business model.

Apple does things a little differently. It was one of the first companies to remove third-party cookies from its browser. In 2024, its new Safari advertising campaign brought this idea – a browser that doesn’t track you – to the masses. I’d still recommend Brave over Safari, however.

Is it perfect? No. It still wants / needs your data. But it is far less exploitative in the way it uses it. And if you value your personal data and its security, this is something you’ll want to keep in mind. And each new iOS update tends to add in more privacy-focussed features too.

Here’s a breakdown of some the notable security and privacy features added inside Apple’s latest builds of iOS:

• Lockdown Mode: A heightened security setting that disables various features to protect against sophisticated cyberattacks.
• Safety Check: A tool that lets users quickly review and revoke permissions granted to others for accessing their personal information
• Biometric Authentication for Hidden and Recently Deleted Albums: Requires Face ID or Touch ID to view photos in these albums.
• Rapid Security Response: Enables quicker installation of critical security patches.
• Passkeys: A more secure method for logging into websites and apps, replacing traditional passwords.
• Pasteboard Permissions: Apps must ask for permission before accessing content copied to the clipboard.
• Landscape Face ID: Supports Face ID authentication in both portrait and landscape orientations on compatible devices.
• Automatic Verification: Automatically bypasses CAPTCHAs on supported websites for a smoother browsing experience.
• Family Sharing: Eases the process of setting up devices for children, complete with parental controls.
• Protection for Private Photos: Locks sensitive photos using biometric authentication.
• Enhanced Permissions Management: Provides improved control over how apps access device features and personal data.
• Security Check: A feature designed to assist victims of domestic violence in resetting access and managing information sharing.

Of course, access to these features requires that your iPhone is able to run the latest version of iOS. If it cannot, you will only get limited access at best. My advice? If your iPhone has reached its end of life, it’s time to upgrade to a newer model.

It doesn’t have to be a brand new model, you can save a fortune and get plenty of value for money by opting for a slightly older refurbished model. In 2024, this would be the iPhone 13 or iPhone 14. Both are around 40% cheaper refurbished, allowing you to potentially buy them outright and then shop around for a cheap, no-contract data plan.

Alternatives to iPhones: Comparing iOS Support with Android

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If you’re not using iPhone (and iOS), you will be using Android. Generally speaking, Apple’s software support is leagues ahead of what you get with an Android phone, where 2-3 major Android updates is the norm.

Google and, to a lesser extent, Samsung have both made huge improvements to their support in recent years. Google now offers 7 years’ worth of Android updates on its mainline Pixel models, while Samsung matches this on select – meaning “flagship” – Galaxy phones like the S24 series, Z Fold series, and Z Flip series phones.

Out of Samsung and Google, Google is the preferable option when it comes to speedy updates. Once a new version of Android is available, Pixel users are first in line to get it. Conversely, with Samsung and its One UI platform, you’ll be waiting for several months for the latest version of Android.

If timely updates are a must, and you want to use Android, right now Google is the best with respect to overall support and speed of delivery. Samsung has improved, matching Google’s support promises, but it is much, much slower getting these updates out to its phones.

Cross-Platform Usability

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Switching between iOS and Android has become increasingly straightforward, thanks to various tools and services that facilitate the transfer of data and apps.

For users moving from Android to iOS, Apple provides the “Move to iOS” app, which seamlessly transfers contacts, message history, photos, videos, web bookmarks, mail accounts, and calendars.

This tool also helps users set up a new iPhone with apps that were available on the Google Play Store, providing comparable iOS versions if available.

Conversely, users switching from iOS to Android can use services like “Samsung Smart Switch” or “Google Drive” backup to transfer data.

These tools allow for the migration of contacts, calendar entries, photos, and other data from an iPhone to an Android device.

Additionally, Google’s ecosystem supports cross-platform continuity for services like Google Photos, Google Drive, and Google Calendar, making the transition smoother for users already embedded in these services.

Both ecosystems have made significant strides in ensuring that core user data—such as contacts, media, and apps—can be transferred with minimal hassle.

However, some platform-specific data, such as certain app data and settings, may not transfer seamlessly, and users may need to reconfigure some settings manually after switching.

Overall, while the initial setup and data transfer between platforms have become more user-friendly, the level of integration and feature parity can still vary.

If you’ve paid for an app on iPhone, it might not work on Android – and vice versa. Plus, certain apps might not be available on iOS or Android, although this is getting rarer and rarer these days. Still, it pays to keep this in mind before committing to a switch.

Can I Buy An Older iPhone And Still Get Good Support?

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When it comes to purchasing a smartphone, the decision often boils down to cost versus quality. Apple, with its unwavering support for iPhones, has tilted this balance in favor of consumers, especially those eyeing the refurbished market.

This strong support network makes opting for a refurbished iPhone a significantly more attractive proposition compared to a similarly priced new Android phone.

Understanding Apple’s Support for Older iPhone Models

Apple’s commitment to its iPhones extends well beyond the sale of new models. This dedication is evident in their software updates, which often support older models for years after their release.

This longevity ensures that even a refurbished iPhone, such as the iPhone 11 Pro Max or the iPhone 12 Pro Max, remains a competitive and smart choice.

Refurbished iPhone 11 Pro Max and iPhone 12 Pro Max: Still Worth It In 2024?

A couple of years ago, the iPhone 11 series was still a good buy. But that is now no longer the case; the phones do not support 5G and, since they were released in 2019, are approaching the end of their support life cycle. 

I’d also avoid the iPhone 12 series too (battery issues), unless you’re looking at the iPhone 12 Pro Max or iPhone Pro.

As of right now – so, mid-way through 2024 – anything from iPhone 13 series, save for the iPhone 13 mini (again, battery issues) would an optimal choice for anyone that is looking to save money on their next iPhone. 

• Affordability: The iPhone 11 Pro Max and iPhone 12 Pro Max, flagship models of their time, now retail at significantly reduced prices in refurbished stores. These prices often fall below the cost of Apple’s latest base model, the iPhone 14.
• Performance: Despite being older models, these iPhones still pack a punch in terms of performance, camera quality, and overall user experience.
• Software Support: With Apple’s continued software support, these devices receive the latest iOS updates, ensuring security and feature enhancements.

Why Apple’s iPhone 13 is The Sweet Spot for Modern Features at a Reduced Price

For optimal bang for your buck, Apple’s iPhone 13 – excusing the iPhone 13 mini – are 100% where it is at right now for value for money.

You’ll get several more years of iOS updates, potentially more. The cameras, especially on the Pro / Pro Max models, are still up there with the best of them, perfect for content creators, and the battery life is rock-solid across the range (again, save for the Mini which sucks).

If you want an iPhone but don’t want to pay top dollar for a new one, the iPhone 13 represents the best option right now.

• Modern Features: The iPhone 13, though a step behind the latest models, still boasts modern features like improved battery life, advanced camera systems, and powerful processing capabilities.
• Refurbished Deals: Marketplaces for refurbished iPhones offer the iPhone 13 at attractive prices, making it a great deal for those seeking newer features without the premium price tag.

Why Choose a Refurbished iPhone Over a New Android Phone?

There is also a huge market for reduced cost Android phones to consider too. Google and Samsung are well represented in the refurbished phone market but you will not get the same level of support as you do with iPhone. 

While it is true that Samsung and Google now both promise 7 years worth of Android updates, this new level of support ONLY applies to newer models like the Pixel 8 and Samsung Galaxy S24 series – and these, while available refurbished, are still relatively expensive. 

Cheaper models like the Pixel 6 and Galaxy S23 do not get 7 years’ worth of support, so for anyone looking for a deal on a phone that they can use for the longest, Apple’s iPhone is where it is at – unless, of course, you’re comfortable rooting an Android phone, then you got plenty of options. 

Why iPhones Are The Best Refurbished Phones To Buy

1. Extended Software Support: Apple’s long-term software support ensures that your refurbished iPhone remains up-to-date and secure.
2. Quality Assurance: Refurbished iPhones undergo rigorous testing and certification processes, ensuring they meet high standards.
3. Ecosystem Integration: If you’re already using other Apple products, a refurbished iPhone seamlessly integrates with your existing ecosystem.
4. Resale Value: iPhones generally maintain a higher resale value compared to Android phones, making them a smarter long-term investment.

This means you can run a flagship iPhone with things like LiDAR and other advanced camera capabilities for way less money. Just make sure you ONLY buy refurbished iPhones via reputable retailers – we recommend the ones listed below.