First and foremost, it's important to clarify that no iPhone will literally stop functioning in 2026. Even older models like the iPhone 6 can still perform basic tasks, such as making calls, sending texts, and browsing the internet. However, Apple periodically discontinues iOS updates for older models, meaning these devices will no longer receive the latest iOS version, new features, or security patches. This can have implications for performance, security, and app compatibility over time.
iOS updates are crucial for ensuring that your iPhone runs smoothly and securely. These updates often include new features, bug fixes, and optimizations that enhance the user experience. Most importantly, iOS updates address security vulnerabilities, ensuring that your device is protected against the latest threats. When Apple ends iOS support for a particular model, that device will no longer receive these important updates, which can lead to performance issues and increased security risks over time.
Even after an iPhone stops receiving the latest iOS version upgrades (e.g., upgrade from iOS 17 to iOS 18), Apple may continue to provide security updates for a limited time. These updates specifically address critical security vulnerabilities, ensuring that your device remains protected against emerging threats. However, once a device stops receiving iOS and security updates, it becomes increasingly vulnerable because it no longer benefits from Apple's ongoing security enhancements.
It's worth mentioning that Apple has done a great job sending security patches for older devices. On Jan 26, 2026, Apple released a security update covering old models up to iPhone 5s, 13 years after its release in 2013.
There’s a distinction between iPhones that are no longer upgradable to the latest iOS version and those that have stopped receiving security updates.
Apple has launched iOS 26 in Sep 2025 as its latest iOS. The previous version is iOS 18. You may be wondering why Apple skipped iOS 19, 20, etc. The new naming convention is similar to the car models. iOS 26 is for 2026. Easier for people to remember. – I think it’s a good idea. We have prepared the lists below to show you the stage of each iPhone model. In general, we recommend getting an iPhone model that supports iOS 26 to get the most value. Next, to give you more details, we have categorized all iPhone models into different lists based on their compatibility with the new iOS and ability to receive Security Updates.
| Model | Release Date | iOS End Date | Final iOS Version | Last Security Update |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| iPhone 4s | October 14, 2011 | September 2016 | iOS 9.3.6 | July 2019 |
| iPhone 5 | September 21, 2012 | September 2017 | iOS 10.3.4 | July 2019 |
| iPhone 5c | September 20, 2013 | September 2017 | iOS 10.3.3 | July 2019 |
| Model | Release Date | iOS End Date | Final iOS Version | Last Security Update |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| iPhone 5s | September 20, 2013 | September 2019 | iOS 12.5.8 | January 2026 |
| iPhone 6 / 6 Plus | September 19, 2014 | September 2019 | iOS 12.5.8 | January 2026 |
| iPhone 6s / 6s Plus | September 25, 2015 | August 2022 | iOS 15.8.6 | January 2026 |
| iPhone SE (1st Gen) | March 31, 2016 | August 2022 | iOS 15.8.6 | January 2026 |
| iPhone 7 / 7 Plus | September 16, 2016 | August 2022 | iOS 15.8.6 | January 2026 |
| iPhone 8 / 8 Plus | September 22, 2017 | September 2023 | iOS 16.7.13 | Janurary 2026 |
| iPhone X | November 3, 2017 | September 2023 | iOS 16.7.13 | Janurary 2026 |
| iPhone XS / XS Max | September 21, 2018 | May 2025 | iOS 18.7.4 | Janurary 2026 |
| iPhone XR | October 26, 2018 | May 2025 | iOS 18.7.4 | Janurary 2026 |
| Model | Release Date | iOS Version at Launch | Support Latest iOS | Receiving Security Updates |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| iPhone 11 | September 20, 2019 | iOS 13 | Yes | Yes |
| iPhone 11 Pro / 11 Pro Max | September 20, 2019 | iOS 13 | Yes | Yes |
| iPhone SE (2nd Gen) | April 24, 2020 | iOS 13 | Yes | Yes |
| iPhone 12 Mini / 12 | October 23, 2020 | iOS 14 | Yes | Yes |
| iPhone 12 Pro / 12 Pro Max | November 13, 2020 | iOS 14 | Yes | Yes |
| iPhone 13 Mini / 13 | September 24, 2021 | iOS 15 | Yes | Yes |
| iPhone 13 Pro / 13 Pro Max | September 24, 2021 | iOS 15 | Yes | Yes |
| iPhone SE (3rd Gen) | March 18, 2022 | iOS 15 | Yes | Yes |
| iPhone 14 / 14 Plus | September 16, 2022 | iOS 16 | Yes | Yes |
| iPhone 14 Pro / 14 Pro Max | September 16, 2022 | iOS 16 | Yes | Yes |
| iPhone 15 / 15 Plus | September 22, 2023 | iOS 17 | Yes | Yes |
| iPhone 15 Pro / 15 Pro Max | September 22, 2023 | iOS 17 | Yes | Yes |
| iPhone 16 / 16 Plus | September 20, 2024 | iOS 18 | Yes | Yes |
| iPhone 16 Pro / 16 Pro Max | September 20, 2024 | iOS 18 | Yes | Yes |
| iPhone 16e | Feburary 28, 2025 | iOS 18 | Yes | Yes |
| iPhone 17 | September 19, 2025 | iOS 26 | Yes | Yes |
| iPhone 17 Air | September 19, 2025 | iOS 26 | Yes | Yes |
| iPhone 17 Pro / Pro Max | September 19, 2025 | iOS 26 | Yes | Yes |
If you own an iPhone that is no longer upgradable to the latest iOS 26 or has stopped receiving security updates, it’s advisable to consider an upgrade. While these devices can still perform basic functions, they are at greater risk of security threats and may become less compatible with new apps over time.
It’s important to note that upgrading to a newer model doesn’t necessarily mean buying the latest iPhone. Certified Used or Refurbished iPhones are excellent alternatives that offer the latest iOS support and security updates at a lower cost. These models are thoroughly tested and certified to ensure they meet high-quality standards, providing a reliable and affordable option for those looking to upgrade.
If you’re considering an upgrade, here’s a list of iPhone models that currently support the latest iOS 26 and receive security updates from Apple:
We recommend getting an iPhone 11 or iPhone 12. The iPhone 11 and 12 support the latest iOS and have significant hardware upgrades compared to older models.
When upgrading, it’s crucial to understand the difference between a Used iPhone and a Certified Used iPhone. A Used iPhone is typically sold as-is by an individual or reseller, often without any guarantees about its condition or functionality. These phones might have defects, wear and tear, or even hidden issues that the seller may not disclose.
On the other hand, a Certified Used iPhone is thoroughly tested, inspected, and refurbished by professionals to meet specific standards. These phones often come with warranties, ensuring that you’re getting a device that functions like new, without the risks associated with buying a regular used phone. Certified Used iPhones offer a balance between affordability and reliability, making them an excellent choice for those looking to upgrade.
UpTrade offers an easy and reliable platform to upgrade your iPhone. With a wide selection of certified refurbished models at competitive prices, you can find a device that suits your needs and budget. Every phone undergoes rigorous testing to ensure quality, providing you with peace of mind with your purchase. Check out the price of Certified Used iPhones and find the best deal for you.
No. No iPhone will suddenly stop turning on or functioning in 2026. Even very old models can still make calls, send texts, and connect to Wi-Fi. What changes is software support — some models will stop receiving iOS upgrades or security updates.
It means one of the following situations:
A: The iPhone can not be upgraded to the latest iOS version. For example, iOS 26 is the latest iOS version for 2026. Models between the iPhone 5s and iPhone XR/XS can't support iOS 26 and are stuck with their old iOS versions. However, they still receive security updates.
B: The iPhone is no longer excluded from the new iOS version, but it also stops receiving security updates. (e.g., iPhone 5/5c and older generations).
Yes. iOS upgrades include new features and system improvements and usually occur once per year (e.g., from iOS 18 to iOS 26), while security updates focus solely on fixing vulnerabilities. An iPhone may stop getting new iOS versions but still receive security updates for a limited time.
They can still function, but they are less secure. Without security updates, these iPhones become more vulnerable to malware, data breaches, and app compatibility issues — especially for banking, payment, and work apps. We do not recommend using them long-term.
Apple changed its naming convention starting in Sep 2025, when it announced iOS 26. iOS 26 aligns with the year 2026, similar to how car models are named. This makes it easier for users to know which software version is current and reduces confusion.
iPhones starting from the iPhone 11 and newer support iOS 26, including the iPhone SE (2nd and 3rd Gen), iPhone 12 series, iPhone 13 series, iPhone 14 series, and newer models.
Yes, especially if your phone no longer receives security updates. Upgrading improves security, app compatibility, battery life, and overall performance — without needing to buy the newest model. Also, getting a Certified Used iPhone of a newer model (iPhone 11 and after) is not expensive at all and usually starts from $150+.
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. The only caveat is that iPhone 11 doesn't support 5G. As per our UpTrade Price Tracker, we have noticed that Certified Used / Refurbished iPhone 12 has started dropping to the same price level as iPhone 11. Therefore, we recommend checking the price of iPhone 12 first.
A Used iPhone is typically sold as-is with no guarantees. A Certified Used (or Refurbished) iPhone is professionally tested, inspected, and often comes with a warranty — making it safer and more reliable.
Absolutely. Certified Refurbished iPhones provide the same iOS support and security updates as new devices, but at significantly lower prices. They are one of the best ways to upgrade safely and affordably.
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