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iPhone 6s security updates

Hi, I lost my phone so I'm using my old iPhone 6s again for the time being. I saw that it is still getting security updates (the latest was released earlier this month!).


Given that the device was released eight(!) years ago, that is a great record. Is there an end for security updates in sight? The last iPhone 6-relevant update was released on 2022-08-31, about 8 years after it was released, so it stands to reason that the iPhone 6s will soon receive its last update, correct?


And is a similarly long security update span to be expected for newer devices as well? (Of course no newer device than the iPhone 6s can already have a 8-year security update span, but if my research is right, at least the iPhone 6 was also already supported security update-wise for approx. 8 years (2014-2022, last security update on 2022-08-31).)

Posted on Sep 28, 2023 3:07 AM

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Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Sep 28, 2023 3:10 AM

You cannot pick and choose an iOS version. What you get is Settings > General > Software update > [All options are available here]


If iOS updates are no longer being released for your device, it typically means that the device has reached its end of life in terms of software support from Apple. In such cases, there are a few options you can consider:


  1. Although major iOS updates may no longer be available, Apple may continue to release security updates for older devices. Ensure that your device is running the latest available version of iOS for its generation to maintain the highest level of security.
  2. As iOS versions advance, some newer apps may not be compatible with older iOS versions. You may need to rely on older versions of apps or find alternative apps that are compatible with your device's iOS version.
    1. Ask the App developer to release the app for lower iOS versions also. Netflix & Amazon has done it.

  3. If your device is no longer receiving software updates, it may be a good time to consider upgrading to a newer device that is supported by the latest iOS updates. Upgrading to a newer device will ensure that you continue to receive the latest features, security updates, and app compatibility. Selection of a mobile model/brand is driv… - Apple Community


Remember to regularly back up your data to avoid losing any important information during the transition to a new device.

It's worth noting that the availability of updates and options may vary depending on the specific device model and its hardware capabilities.



4 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Sep 28, 2023 3:10 AM in response to nonononousername

You cannot pick and choose an iOS version. What you get is Settings > General > Software update > [All options are available here]


If iOS updates are no longer being released for your device, it typically means that the device has reached its end of life in terms of software support from Apple. In such cases, there are a few options you can consider:


  1. Although major iOS updates may no longer be available, Apple may continue to release security updates for older devices. Ensure that your device is running the latest available version of iOS for its generation to maintain the highest level of security.
  2. As iOS versions advance, some newer apps may not be compatible with older iOS versions. You may need to rely on older versions of apps or find alternative apps that are compatible with your device's iOS version.
    1. Ask the App developer to release the app for lower iOS versions also. Netflix & Amazon has done it.

  3. If your device is no longer receiving software updates, it may be a good time to consider upgrading to a newer device that is supported by the latest iOS updates. Upgrading to a newer device will ensure that you continue to receive the latest features, security updates, and app compatibility. Selection of a mobile model/brand is driv… - Apple Community


Remember to regularly back up your data to avoid losing any important information during the transition to a new device.

It's worth noting that the availability of updates and options may vary depending on the specific device model and its hardware capabilities.



Sep 28, 2023 3:13 AM in response to nonononousername

Relying solely on software is not sufficient to protect data on iPhones. While software is a critical component of data security, the hardware plays a fundamental role in enhancing security.


Data security on iPhones depends on both the hardware and software for several reasons. iPhones are designed to provide a high level of security to protect the user's personal information and data.


In summary, data security on iPhones is a result of the synergy between the hardware and software components. The hardware provides a strong foundation with features like Secure Enclave and encryption, while the iOS software builds upon this foundation with secure development practices and continuous security updates. The integrated approach helps safeguard user data from various threats, both physical and digital.

iPhone 6s security updates

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