The oldest iPhones still receiving some support, primarily critical security updates for older iOS versions like iOS 15, are the iPhone 6S, iPhone 6S Plus, and the first-generation iPhone SE, as of late 2025, though they are nearing the end of their extended lifecycle, with new features and app compatibility diminishing, making newer models like the iPhone 12/13 series recommended for primary use.
Is the iPhone 11 still a good upgrade option in 2026? Yes. The iPhone 11 is one of the best value upgrades in 2026. It supports iOS 26, receives security updates, and offers a noticeable performance upgrade over the iPhone XR and XS at a much lower cost than newer models.
Mainstream software support for the iPhone 7 was dropped when iOS 16 was released. But, it still receives iOS 15 security updates (as of September 15 2025). The current version of iOS to support iPhone 7 is iOS 15.8. 5.
Apple announced that the iPhone 8 and 8 Plus, as well as the iPhone X, would not support iOS 17 due to hardware limitations. However, the devices still received security updates until September 15, 2025.
The Risks of Using Unsupported Devices
Security Vulnerabilities: The most significant risk of using an unsupported device is the exposure to security vulnerabilities. Without regular software updates, your iPhone becomes an easy target for hackers.
Use It as a Security Camera
An old iPhone can easily be repurposed as a home security camera or baby monitor. Apps like Alfred Camera and Manything allow you to monitor your home remotely.
Main Issues with Using an iPhone 7 in 2025
App Compatibility Problems: Many apps will stop working properly or won't update at all.
The iPhone 6 and 6 Plus are the best-selling smartphones.
A 76% battery health is considered okay if your device lasts your day, but it's below Apple's recommended 80% threshold for optimal performance, meaning you'll likely experience shorter battery life and potential slowdowns, making a battery replacement a worthwhile consideration for improved longevity and speed.
No, the iPhone 11 isn't "too old" to buy in late 2025/early 2026 for budget-conscious users needing a reliable phone with good software support (like iOS 17/18), but newer models offer significant upgrades like OLED screens, 5G, and better cameras, making the iPhone 12 or 13 a smarter long-term buy for most, while the 11 is excellent value if budget is key and you can get a good battery, notes YouTube and Swappie.
From May 5, 2025, WhatsApp will no longer be compatible with iPhone 5s, iPhone 6, and iPhone 6 Plus models.
Yes, an iPhone 18 lineup is expected, but Apple might split the release: high-end models (iPhone 18 Pro, Pro Max, and a foldable iPhone) are rumored for Fall 2026, while the standard iPhone 18 and iPhone 18e (low-cost) might be delayed until Spring 2027, following a new staggered launch strategy for different models.
As your phone uses more processing power in the background, it naturally consumes more battery, which often results in slightly worse battery life right after an update. The more apps and files your device has to process, the longer these background tasks run.
Depending on storage capacity of your iPhone 7, our recyclers are currently happy to pay you around £100 for a fully working iPhone 7 with minor signs of use.
iPhone Models by week
Yes, an iPhone can last for 10 years, especially with proper care, regular maintenance, and potential repairs. However, it may not receive software updates for the entire decade, which could affect its usability.
Using an iPhone that is no longer fully supported has several consequences. Security risk is the most important consideration, as vulnerabilities in the operating system will remain unpatched.
Truth is we don't know for sure, but on the basis that Apple supports phones for five to seven years after they are removed from sale: iPhone XS (2018-2019) – Approx 2024-2026. iPhone XR (2018-2021) – Approx 2026-2028. iPhone 11 (2019-2022) – Approx 2027-2029.
Excessive Standby Battery Drain
Many iPhone 12 and 12 Pro users have noticed an unusual battery drain, sometimes losing up to 20% charge overnight, even in Airplane Mode.
Three-finger gestures on iPhone primarily activate accessibility features like VoiceOver (for screen reading and navigation) and Zoom (magnification), allowing scrolling, zooming, and text manipulation (copy/paste/undo) with specific taps and drags, though some text actions work without VoiceOver enabled for quick editing. Common gestures include three-finger double-tap to toggle VoiceOver speech, triple-tap for the screen curtain, and pinching/spreading with three fingers for copy/paste actions, notes this YouTube video.
When this product reaches its end of life, take it to a collection point designated by local authorities.
On an iPhone, dialing *#21# is a USSD code used to check the status of your unconditional call forwarding, revealing if your calls, SMS, or data are being redirected and to which number, without actually changing settings; it's a simple privacy check to see if someone has secretly set your phone to forward everything, though it doesn't detect advanced spyware. Dialing this code brings up a message from your carrier about your call forwarding status, often showing "Disabled" or a specific number if it's active.