In a surprising turn of events, Apple's latest update to iOS caused a bit of a stir among iPhone users, particularly those with older models. The tech giant unveiled the second-generation AirTag 2, and along with it came the release of iOS version 26.2.1, aimed at enhancing compatibility with this new item tracker. However, this update was not the only one; Apple also rolled out several smaller updates for legacy devices, including iOS 12.5.8, specifically for the iPhone 5S and 6. Other versions, such as iOS 15.8.6, iOS 18.7.4, and iOS 16.7.13, were also part of this rollout. But just a day later, Apple made the decision to retract most of these updates, excluding iOS 26.2.1, due to an issue that hindered older iPhones from connecting to Telstra’s network in Australia.
Shortly after this hiccup, Telstra announced a firmware update designed to address a significant problem that left users unable to use 4G services, make phone calls, or send text messages. For Australian customers facing these connectivity issues, Telstra suggested a simple fix: by connecting their iPhones to Wi-Fi, navigating to Settings, then General, and finally About, they could accept the carrier settings update that would rectify the problem.
Once Telstra's issues were resolved, Apple resumed offering the previously withdrawn updates, including iOS 12.5.8, iOS 15.8.6, and iOS 18.7.4. Additionally, they released iOS 16.7.14 to specifically address the previous version's shortcomings, ensuring that the problem with the Australian carrier was fully resolved.
Now, you might be wondering why Apple continues to provide updates for older devices like the iPhone 5S, which debuted an impressive 13 years ago. Unlike many Android manufacturers, Apple does not have a clearly defined support timeline for its updates. However, a document submitted to the U.K. authorities in 2024 indicated that the company aims to provide security updates for a minimum of five years from a device's original release date. Despite this, the iPhone 5S has been receiving sporadic updates long past its expected life cycle.
This ongoing support might be seen as a hallmark of Apple's approach, but the primary purpose behind the release of iOS 12.5.8 was to extend the security certificate, ensuring that essential features like iMessage, FaceTime, and device activation remain operational beyond January 2027.
It's noteworthy that while Apple is still catering to the basic functionalities of such an aging device, practical usability is limited. Most modern apps demand higher software or hardware specifications than those available on the iPhone 5S, which can lead to frustrating experiences when browsing with Safari or using other applications. However, users of these older devices can still rely on sending iMessage texts and making FaceTime calls, meaning that while the updates may seem minor, they prevent the devices from becoming entirely obsolete.
