How to Tell if Your iPhone Is Too Old to Update

PDF download Download Article
PDF download Download Article

Wondering whether your old iPhone can still get run the latest version of iOS? iPhones generally receive software updates for about 5 years, but that's not a hard rule. We'll show you how to find out if your current iPhone can still be updated to the latest version of iOS, and how to know when it's time for an upgrade.

Section 1 of 2:

Is my iPhone too old to update?

PDF download Download Article
  1. If you're not sure which model of iPhone you have, it's easy to check:
    • Open the Settings app.
    • Tap General .
    • Tap About .
    • Find your model next to "Model Name" near the top of the page.
  2. Point your web browser to https://support.apple.com/en-gu/guide/iphone/iphe3fa5df43/ios to view all iPhone models eligible supported by the latest major iOS release. If your iPhone model appears on this, it qualifies to update to the latest version of iOS.
    • Most iPhones will receive major iOS updates for about 5 years after release.
    • Even if your iPhone can't run iOS 15 or other later versions of the software, you may still receive security updates that fix bugs and patch vulnerabilities.
    Advertisement
  3. If there's a new version of iOS available, you'll be able to run an update if your iPhone supports it. To check for updates:
    • Connect your iPhone to Wi-Fi.
    • Open the Settings app.
    • Tap General .
    • Tap Software Update .
    • If an update is available, you'll see the version number, as well as a link to download and install it.
    • If no update is available and you're running a version of iOS that's not the latest version, your phone doesn't qualify for updates.
  4. Apple has released a new major version of iOS every year since 2008 (iOS 1). They usually announce the features and supported models for upcoming versions during their annual summer development event in June. [1]
    • Add a bookmark for Apple's events schedule at https://www.apple.com/apple-events so you stay in the loop.
    • Prior to Apple's official announcements, you can usually find websites that speculate which models will be supported by the next major update.
    5. Advertisement
Section 2 of 2:

Do I need to buy a new iPhone if updates aren't available?

PDF download Download Article
  1. While you may not see the latest iOS features or the newest emoji, a lack of operating system updates doesn't mean your iPhone is suddenly unusable. Even if the latest apps no longer work, you can still place phone calls, browse the web, and even listen to music.
    • If your iPhone no longer receives security updates, you could be more vulnerable to attacks. Always use secure passwords , and make sure you're using two-factor authentication with your Apple ID, as well as with any other services you use.
    • Always keep the apps on your iPhone up to date, even when iOS updates are no longer available. Once your favorite apps are no longer usable or supported on your iPhone, it's time to consider an upgrade.
  2. While it's not usually necessary to buy a new iPhone as soon as your older one can no longer receive updates, a lack of updates is a sign that your iPhone's hardware lags behind the newer models. Fortunately, thanks to iCloud, transferring your data to a new iPhone is super easy.
    • Depending on your model, you may be able to trade it in for a discount on a newer model through Apple's Trade In program. Learn more at https://www.apple.com/shop/trade-in .
  3. Even if you wind up buying a new iPhone, your old iPhone could still come in handy. For one thing, it'll be great to have a backup phone if you ever drop or misplace your new one.
    • A dedicated Apple TV remote—even an older iPhone will be easier to use than some of Apple remote models!
    • An iPod—you can listen to your MP3s in the music app, or stick to streaming apps like Apple Music and Spotify.
    • A dedicated e-reader—the Apple Books app is great for reading e-books, and you can even store them on your iPhone to read offline.
    • A car-based infotainment system—mount it on your dashboard, connect to your car's Bluetooth (or to a Bluetooth dongle), and get driving directions, listen to music, and take phone calls on the go.
    4. Advertisement

Expert Q&A

Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit
      Advertisement

      Tips

      Submit a Tip
      All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
      Name
      Please provide your name and last initial
      Submit
      Thanks for submitting a tip for review!

      You Might Also Like

      How to
      Tell if Your Phone Has Been Tapped
      Safely Remove Water from a Charging Port on Android & iPhone
      11 Possible Fixes to Solve the "Mobile Network Not Available" Error on Android
      How to
      Activate a Double Tap Screen on Android
      How to
      Use a SIM Card to Switch Phones
      How to
      Wake Someone Up over the Phone
      How to
      Attach Phone Charms
      How to
      Make Your Phone Vibrate: Complete Guide
      How to
      Send Pictures from Your Cell Phone to Your Computer
      Why Your Phone Says No Service: 11 Issues and Solutions
      How to
      Transfer Files from a Phone to a PC or Mac
      How to
      Find the 32-Digit EID Number on iPhone and Android
      16 Reasons Your Phone Says "No SIM Card"—And What to Do About It
      Phone Not Charging? The 9 Most Likely Reasons (And What to Do)
      Advertisement

      References

      1. ↑ https://www.apple.com/apple-events/

      About This Article

      Article Summary X

      1. Find your phone model.
      2. Check your manufacturer's update schedule.
      3. Try to perform an update.

      Did this summary help you?
      Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 24,892 times.

      Is this article up to date?

      Advertisement