The nearly 13-year-old iPhone 5S receives a new update.
For those still utilizing the iPhone 5S, 6, or 6 Plus, as well as older iPad models, there is promising news: Apple has introduced a software update that extends the security certificate for these devices until 2027.
On January 26, 2026, Apple astonished many by releasing software updates for older iPhone and iPad variants.
The spotlight is on iOS 12.5.8, which is specifically engineered for devices that have been around for over a decade, such as the iPhone 5S (launched in 2013, support concluded in 2019) and the 6th-generation iPod Touch (introduced in 2015). What instigated this unexpected turn of events?
System Update Extends Security Validity Until 2027
The crux of these updates lies in technical necessity: it is fundamentally a renewal of vital security certificates. Such digital certificates are indispensable for establishing encrypted communications between the device and Apple’s infrastructure.
Without this update, essential services like iMessage and FaceTime, along with basic device activation, would eventually malfunction. Thus, by installing these updates, users can ensure the continuity of these critical services for the foreseeable future.
Devices Benefiting from This Update:
- iOS 12.5.8: for iPhone 5s, iPhone 6, iPhone 6 Plus
- iPadOS 12.5.8: for iPad Air, iPad mini 2, iPad mini 3, and iPod Touch (6th generation)
- iOS 15.8.6: for iPhone 6s (all models), iPhone 7 (all models), iPhone SE (1st generation)
- iPadOS 15.8.6: for iPad Air 2, iPad mini (4th generation), and iPod Touch (7th generation)
- iOS 16.7.13: for iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus, iPhone X
- iPadOS 16.7.13: for iPad (5th generation), iPad Pro (9.7″), and iPad Pro (12.9″, 1st generation)
- iOS 18.7.4: for iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, iPhone XR
- iPadOS 18.7.4: for iPad Pro (13″), iPad Pro (12.9″, 3rd generation and later), iPad Pro (11″, 1st generation and later), iPad Air (3rd generation and later), iPad (7th generation and later), and iPad mini (5th generation and later)
These updates serve as a complement to the release of iOS 26.2.1, which represents the current operating system for iPhones and iPads.
Notably, the updates for older devices lack security-oriented enhancements; the emphasis remains on maintaining connectivity.
Consequently, no new features are introduced, and the absence of security updates renders secure internet browsing increasingly tenuous.
Source link: Notebookcheck.net.
