Apple Updates iPhones From 2013 to Keep Them Working

Apple just did something rare and wonderful: the tech giant released software updates for iPhones as old as the iPhone 5S from 2013, giving devices many thought were dead a few more years of usefulness.

The company pushed out patches for iOS 12, 15, and 16 this week. These aren't your typical updates with new features or security fixes.

Instead, Apple renewed a security certificate that would have expired in January 2027. Without this fix, older devices would have lost access to iMessage, FaceTime, and the ability to sign into Apple accounts.

The iOS 12 update is particularly surprising. Apple last patched that version in January 2023, meaning these devices hadn't seen attention in over two years.

The updates cover a wide range of beloved devices. iPhone 5S and iPhone 6 owners can download iOS 12.5.8. iPhone 6S, iPhone 7, and iPad Air 2 users get iOS 15.8.6. And iPhone 8 and iPhone X owners receive iOS 16.7.13.

Why This Inspires

Sure, these devices aren't powerful enough to be primary phones anymore. Most have just 1 or 2GB of RAM, and modern apps don't support such old software.

But millions of these devices have found second lives. Parents turn old iPhones into music players for kids. Grandparents use them as video chat stations to stay connected with family. Some become dedicated cameras, white noise machines, or kitchen timers.

Apple didn't have to do this. The company could have let these certificates expire and pushed users toward new hardware.

Instead, they chose to keep millions of devices functional for people who still rely on them. For families passing down old iPhones to kids, elderly relatives using them for FaceTime calls, or anyone keeping a backup device alive, this matters.

The move shows that technology companies can choose longevity over planned obsolescence. It's a small update with a big message: even a 13-year-old iPhone deserves to keep connecting people.

Apple's commitment means your old iPhone sitting in a drawer might still have years of useful life ahead.