How long will your iPhone keep getting updates? Explained per model
How long will your iPhone keep getting updates? We break down the support timelines per model — from iPhone SE to iPhone 16 Pro Max.
Door The Phone Shopper
Gepubliceerd: 2026-08-05
Your iPhone works fine, but you're wondering: how long will my iPhone keep getting updates? It's a smarter question than it sounds. Once Apple stops issuing security updates, you're at risk — and your device will slowly but surely become outdated. We explain the situation per model so you know whether you can hold on a little longer or whether it's time to switch.
Quick summary: Apple supports iPhones with software updates for an average of 5 to 7 years. Which iOS version your device will still receive depends on the chip and the year it was released. In this article you'll find an overview per model, plus advice on when upgrading makes sense.
Why it matters how long your iPhone keeps getting updates
Updates are about more than new features. Security patches close vulnerabilities that hackers and malware can exploit. Once Apple stops supporting a model, those patches stop too — leaving your device exposed. Banking apps, payment services and even regular browsers will eventually require you to be running a more recent version of iOS.
We see this every week in our workshop in Nijverdal: customers coming in with an iPhone 7 or 8 that can no longer update its apps. Not because the device is broken, but because software support came to a standstill years ago. That's the moment when upgrading really pays off.
How long does an iPhone receive updates from Apple on average?
Apple doesn't communicate a fixed end date in advance, but in practice iPhones typically receive iOS updates for 5 to 7 years. For comparison: Android manufacturers now promise 4 to 7 years, but Apple has been delivering this consistently for years.
The rule of thumb: the newer the chip, the longer the support. An iPhone with an A15 chip or newer is in good shape for the years ahead. Wondering how long your iPhone will keep getting updates? Look at the year of release and the chip — that tells you more than the model number alone.
Overview: support timelines per iPhone model
Below is an up-to-date overview. Please note: "No longer receiving updates" means the device no longer receives new major iOS versions. Apple occasionally still rolls out security patches for older models, but you can't rely on this on an ongoing basis.
| Model |
Released |
Chip |
Latest iOS |
Status |
| iPhone 6s / 6s Plus |
2015 |
A9 |
iOS 15 |
No longer receiving updates |
| iPhone 7 / 7 Plus |
2016 |
A10 |
iOS 15 |
No longer receiving updates |
| iPhone 8 / 8 Plus / X |
2017 |
A11 |
iOS 16 |
No longer receiving updates |
| iPhone SE (2nd gen, 2020) |
2020 |
A13 |
iOS 17 |
No longer receiving updates |
| iPhone XS / XS Max / XR |
2018 |
A12 |
iOS 18 |
Supported |
| iPhone 11 (Pro / Max) |
2019 |
A13 |
iOS 18 |
Supported |
| iPhone SE (3rd gen, 2022) |
2022 |
A15 |
iOS 18 |
Supported |
| iPhone 12 (Pro / Max / mini) |
2020 |
A14 |
iOS 18 |
Supported |
| iPhone 13 (Pro / Max / mini) |
2021 |
A15 |
iOS 18 |
Supported |
| iPhone 14 (Plus / Pro / Pro Max) |
2022 |
A15 / A16 |
iOS 18 |
Supported |
| iPhone 15 (Plus / Pro / Pro Max) |
2023 |
A16 / A17 |
iOS 18 |
Supported long-term |
| iPhone 16 (Plus / Pro / Pro Max) |
2024 |
A18 |
iOS 18 |
Supported long-term |
Sources: Apple Support pages and historical update data. Overview last updated mid-2025.
When is it time to upgrade?
Not everyone needs to buy a new device the moment iOS updates stop. But there are a few signs worth watching out for:
- Apps crash or refuse to open — more and more apps require a minimum iOS version.
- Security risks — without patches, you're vulnerable when banking online or using email.
- Sluggish performance — an outdated chip combined with a worn battery makes your device feel slow.
- Battery life is getting shorter — once battery capacity drops below 80%, you'll notice it every day.
- New features aren't available — think Live Voicemail, Apple Intelligence or improved camera features.
Recognise two or more of these? Then upgrading is no longer a luxury — it's a practical choice. Still have a working device? Trade it in through our trade-in service — you'll get a fair offer on the spot, and the value is deducted straight from your next purchase.
Is a refurbished iPhone a smart choice when you want to upgrade?
Absolutely — as long as you know what to look for. A refurbished iPhone 13 or 14 still has years of software support ahead of it, costs significantly less than new, and is available from us in multiple conditions: from As good as new to Used. That way, you can choose what fits your budget.
At The Phone Shopper, we check every refurbished device on more than 50 points. And the battery? Ours always has a minimum capacity of 85%. If it falls short of that, we replace it before the device goes on sale. That's not a marketing claim — it's simply what we promise and deliver. You also get a 2-year warranty, free shipping within the Netherlands and a 30-day return policy.
Want to know which model suits you? Browse the refurbished overview or visit us in store at Willem Alexanderstraat 11 in Nijverdal. We're happy to help — no sales pitch, just honest advice.
How to check which iOS version your iPhone is running
Not sure which iOS version your device is currently on? Here's how to check in three steps:
- Open Settings on your iPhone.
- Tap General and then About.
- Look for Software Version — this shows your exact iOS version number.
Is there a red badge on the Settings icon? That means an update is available that you haven't installed yet. Do it as soon as possible — especially if it's a security update.
Is your device running slowly or are there other issues? That doesn't necessarily mean it's a software problem. A worn battery or damaged charging port can feel exactly the same. Our is happy to take a look — repairs are often completed while you wait.
Replace the iPhone battery or upgrade altogether?
This is a question we hear almost every day in Twente: "Should I get the battery replaced, or just get a new phone?" The honest answer depends on two things: how old is the device, and is Apple about to drop support for it?
A battery replacement with us is relatively affordable and gives your device a second life of one to two years. However, if your iPhone has already lost iOS support — or is about to within the next year — upgrading makes more sense. You'd be paying for a repair on a device you'll need to replace soon anyway.
Not sure? Come in. We'll take a look at your current device together, give you honest advice and show you what a comparable refurbished model would cost. No pressure, just clarity. Check our for current pricing.
Frequently asked questions
How long does an iPhone receive updates from Apple on average?
Apple supports iPhones with iOS updates for an average of 5 to 7 years. That's longer than most Android manufacturers, although newer Android devices are also seeing longer support periods. The exact duration depends on the chip in your device: the more modern the chip, the longer the support.
My iPhone is no longer receiving iOS updates — does that make it unsafe?
Not necessarily right away, but the risk does increase over time. Without security patches, vulnerabilities in the system can go unresolved. Apple occasionally still releases patches for older models when serious flaws are discovered, but this isn't guaranteed. For everyday banking and sensitive communications, we recommend upgrading in good time.
How long will the iPhone SE (3rd generation) keep receiving updates?
The 2022 iPhone SE has an A15 chip — the same as the iPhone 13 — and is currently receiving iOS 18 updates. Based on Apple's historical pattern, you can expect this model to be supported until at least 2027 or 2028. That makes it a budget-friendly choice with a solid lifespan.
Does a refurbished iPhone have long enough software support?
Yes, as long as you choose a refurbished iPhone 12 or newer. All of these models run iOS 18 and are expected to be supported for several more years. At The Phone Shopper, we sell refurbished iPhones with a 2-year warranty and a battery capacity of at least 85%, so you can start using it right away without any worries.
Can I check myself whether my iPhone has the latest iOS version?
Yes, it's straightforward. Go to Settings → General → Software Update. If it says "iOS is up to date", you're running the latest version available for your model. If an update is ready to install, do so as soon as possible — especially if it's a security update.
What's the advantage of upgrading to a refurbished iPhone through The Phone Shopper?
You get a certified, thoroughly tested device with at least 85% battery capacity, a 2-year warranty, 30-day return policy and free shipping within the Netherlands. You can also trade in your old device and deduct its value straight from your purchase. We also offer interest-free financing over 6, 12 or 24 months. Visit us in Nijverdal or order through our webshop — no commitment required.
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