Apple typically supports older iPhone models with software updates for 4-5 years after their release. However, there are a few factors that determine how long an iPhone will continue receiving software updates.
Factors That Determine iPhone Software Support
Here are some of the main factors that affect how long an iPhone model will be supported with software updates:
- Hardware capabilities – Apple stops supporting iPhones when the hardware is too old to handle the latest iOS version smoothly. New iOS versions require faster processors and more RAM.
- Battery life and performance – Apple may stop supporting older iPhones if a new iOS version significantly reduces battery life or performance on the device.
- Security updates – Even if a device can’t run the latest iOS version, Apple may still push important security updates to older models.
- App support – If an iOS version drops support for older 32-bit apps, Apple is less likely to offer that update for older iPhones.
- User base – If a particular iPhone model has a large active user base, Apple is more likely to extend its software support.
Software Support History
Here is how long Apple has provided software updates for recent iPhone models:
| iPhone Model | Release Year | Final Supported iOS Version | Total Years of Updates |
|---|---|---|---|
| iPhone 6s/6s Plus | 2015 | iOS 15 (2022) | 7 years |
| iPhone 7/7 Plus | 2016 | iOS 15 (2022) | 6 years |
| iPhone 8/8 Plus | 2017 | iOS 16 (2023) | 6 years |
| iPhone X | 2017 | iOS 16 (2023) | 6 years |
| iPhone XR | 2018 | TBD | 5+ years |
| iPhone 11 | 2019 | TBD | 4+ years |
As you can see, Apple supported the iPhone 6s and 6s Plus models for 7 years, which is the longest software support so far. The iPhone 5s, released in 2013, was supported for 5 years up through iOS 12 in 2018.
Expected Support for Recent Models
Based on Apple’s history, we can make educated guesses about how much longer recent iPhone models will be supported:
- iPhone XS/XR (2018) – Likely supported for at least iOS 19 (2024)
- iPhone 11 (2019) – Likely supported for 5-6 years, through iOS 21 (2025)
- iPhone 12/13 (2020-2021) – Likely supported for 6+ years, through iOS 27 (2027)
- iPhone 14 (2022) – Likely supported for 6-7 years, through iOS 29 (2028-2029)
The A13 processor in the iPhone 11 is still very fast and capable, so it should power through updates for 5-6 years. The A14 and A15 chips in the iPhone 12/13/14 will likely support 6 or more years of updates.
Factors That May Extend Support
Here are some factors that could potentially extend software support for older iPhones beyond what Apple typically provides:
- iPhone popularity – If an older model like the iPhone XR or 11 remains very popular, Apple may provide updates for 1-2 years longer.
- iOS lite – Apple could develop a lighter iOS version that drops some features but supports older devices. This extends support without compromising the experience on newer iPhones.
- Security-only updates – Apple may provide occasional security patches for older devices that can’t run the full iOS.
- iOS forking – A third party could fork iOS and provide updates for older iPhones, like Microsoft did for Windows XP.
- Jailbreaking community – Jailbreaks could extend an iPhone’s lifespan beyond when Apple stops providing updates.
For mainstream public users, relying on these possibilities is risky. But they do suggest there are ways determined users could squeeze some extra life out of old iPhones.
Factors That May Shorten Support
On the other hand, there are also some factors that could result in shorter software support windows for iPhones:
- Faster chip evolution – If Apple’s chips start improving substantially each year, iOS updates may start requiring newer iPhones more quickly.
- More demanding iOS versions – If iOS introduces significant new capabilities like AR/VR support, older devices could get dropped more quickly.
- 5G transition – 5G capabilities may require dropping support for older models sooner as 5G networks roll out.
- Environmental focus – To reduce e-waste, Apple may intentionally shorten iPhone lifespans to get users to upgrade to more energy efficient models.
Hopefully Apple will aim to support all iPhones for at least 5-6 years. But there are scenarios where Apple decides to shorten support windows to push users to upgrade.
Buying a New iPhone
If you’re considering buying a new iPhone, using the above estimates can help you choose a model that will likely support iOS updates for as many years as you plan to own the device.
Here are some recommendations based on your expected ownership timeframe:
- 2-3 years – iPhone 14 or 13 will be safest.
- 4-5 years – iPhone 14, 13, or 12 should still get updates.
- 6-7 years – iPhone 14 is your best bet.
Ideally, it’s best to get the newest iPhone you can reasonably afford if you want to maximize future software support. But an iPhone 12 or 13 should still get 4-5 years of updates if you take good care of the device.
Conclusion
While there are no guarantees, you can expect an iPhone to receive 4-5 years of software updates, with Apple extending support up to 6-7 years for popular models like the iPhone 6s. The lifespans could shorten a bit going forward if Apple adopts a more aggressive stance promoting upgrades. But buying a new iPhone 14, 13, or 12 model should still give you many years of iOS support.