Apple could end all or part of software support for some older iPhones in 2024. We’ll tell you which models we are talking about.
There may no longer be an update to iOS 18 for the iPhone XR (left). (Source: netzwelt)
Anyone who buys an iPhone can look forward to long software support. Apple usually supplies its cell phones with the latest iOS version for a full five years. In addition, many models will receive at least security patches for a certain period of time. But even the longest software support comes to an end.
Apple does not provide any precise information, but the following models are at risk of partial or full support in 2024. For example, three models could no longer receive an update to the new operating system iOS 18, which is expected in the fall: the iPhone XS, the iPhone XS Max and the iPhone XR are affected.
No more iOS 18 for iPhone X, XS Max and XR?
The three devices were released in 2018 and are therefore among the oldest models that still run the current iOS version 17. With their publication, Apple discontinued function updates for the iPhone 8 (Plus) and the iPhone X, the predecessor of the XS models. So it’s quite possible that in 2024 it will be the turn of the XS models and the XR model. However, it doesn’t have to happen that way. For example, when releasing iOS 15, Apple did not remove any models from the support list.
No more security patches for iOS 15?
However, the online magazine BGR believes it is possible that Apple will remove more models from the list for iOS updates than usual. According to rumors, the manufacturer from Cupterino will focus on artificial intelligence for iOS 18. It is unclear whether the associated new functions can also be implemented on older devices.
If the iPhone XS, XR and XS Max no longer receive iOS 18, Apple will continue to provide them with security updates for a certain period of time. Apple is currently distributing these to the website endoflife.date, which specializes in support periods, for iOS versions 17, 16 and 15. There was also a security update for iOS 12 in January 2023, but this seems to be a one-off Patch to have been.
The Apple trade magazine MacWorld assumes that Apple will no longer distribute security updates for iOS 15 during 2024. This would mean the final end of support for all iPhone models older than the iPhone 8.
Models from other manufacturers are also affected
Not only is Apple expected to stop software support for some devices in 2024, other manufacturers are also taking this step. We’ll tell you in further texts which devices from Google, Samsung and Xiaomi are at risk.
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