Imagine your trusty old iPhone, a relic from a bygone era, suddenly losing its ability to connect to the network, make calls, or even send a simple text. That's exactly what happened to some users after Apple's recent iOS update. But here's where it gets interesting: this wasn't just a minor glitch; it required an emergency fix, highlighting the delicate balance between supporting aging devices and rolling out new features.
With the much-anticipated launch of the second-generation AirTag 2, Apple released iOS 26.2.1 to ensure compatibility with this sleek new item tracker. However, the company also pushed out several smaller updates for older iPhone models, such as iOS 12.5.8 for the iPhone 5S and 6, alongside other versions like iOS 15.8.6, iOS 18.7.4, and iOS 16.7.13. But here's where it gets controversial: just a day after these updates went live, Apple abruptly pulled most of them (except iOS 26.2.1) due to a critical issue preventing older iPhones from connecting to the Telstra network in Australia.
A few days later, Telstra stepped in, releasing a carrier firmware update to resolve the problem. Affected users could fix the issue by connecting their iPhones to Wi-Fi, navigating to Settings > General > About, and accepting the carrier settings update. This patch restored 4G connectivity, calling, and texting capabilities. Once the issue was resolved, Apple re-released iOS 12.5.8, iOS 15.8.6, and iOS 18.7.4, along with iOS 16.7.14, which permanently addressed the bug for Australian users.
And this is the part most people miss: Why does Apple continue to update devices like the iPhone 5S, which is over a decade old? Unlike Android manufacturers, Apple doesn’t publicly commit to a specific update timeline. However, a 2024 document revealed the company aims to provide security updates for at least five years from a device’s initial release. Yet, the iPhone 5S, now 13 years old, still receives intermittent updates. The primary reason for iOS 12.5.8 was to extend the security certificate, ensuring iMessage, FaceTime, and device activation remain functional beyond January 2027.
While it’s commendable that Apple maintains basic functionality for such aged devices, the reality is that these phones are practically unusable for most modern apps, which require higher software and hardware specifications. Even browsing with Safari can be a challenge. Still, owners can at least send iMessage texts and make FaceTime calls, keeping these devices from becoming entirely obsolete.
But here’s the thought-provoking question: Is Apple’s continued support for ancient devices like the iPhone 5S a testament to its commitment to longevity, or is it a reminder of how quickly technology becomes outdated? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—do you appreciate this level of support, or do you think it’s time to let these relics rest?
