Your iPhone Might Be Obsolete Now! Here is How
According to Apple’s Designation Standards, your iPhone might be outdated! Here is what they have to say: it's common for Apple to designate older iPhone models as obsolete after a certain period, typically around five to seven years after they were released.
Apple keeps updating the list of its obsolete models; The most recent iPhone to be marked as obsolete is the iPhone 5S. This news is drastic because, from now on, service stores will not receive the official parts for these iPhone models. Users must visit local repair stores to get their iPhones repaired. While this often works, it can lead to complications down the line.
Now might be an excellent time to consider upgrading your iPhone model.
Key Takeaways
- iPhones older than iPhone 5S are considered obsolete by Apple.
- Obsolete iPhones won't receive software updates or official repairs from Apple stores.
- Using an obsolete iPhone increases security risks and makes it harder to get repairs.
- Upgrading to a newer iPhone offers better features, security, storage, and camera quality.
- You can trade-in your obsolete iPhone or recycle it securely.
The Undying Legacy of the iPhone 5s -
The launch of the iPhone 5S was a revolutionary step for Apple as a brand, a stepping stone that contributed significantly to its success.
Significant technological advancements, like the 5S auto mode, seemed to do surprisingly well for inexperienced photographers. Also, the smooth touch ID feature added significantly to the overall experience.
Here is a List of All the iPhone Models That Are Now Obsolete, According to Apple:
iPhone 3G
iPhone 3GS
iPhone 4
iPhone 4S
iPhone 5C
iPhone 5S
If your iPhone model looks like one of these, it is an excellent time to update it.
What Are the Risks of Using an Obsolete iPhone?
With an obsolete model, iPhones are at risk of vulnerabilities, increasing the chances of fraudulent practices and putting your information at risk. All of this can be avoided by regularly updating your iPhone model.
In addition, Apple has also stopped manufacturing the hardware parts of these obsolete iPhone models, making it even more difficult for users to get them repaired.
Services associated with these iPhone models, such as OS updates, security updates, and app updates, are also restricted after they are declared obsolete, which can be difficult for the user in case any issue arises with their iPhone.
Using obsolete models is risky, as the repairing stores will not be supplied with the official hardware parts, making it even more difficult for you to get it repaired for further use.
Benefits of Upgrading Your iPhone Model
Latest Features: Upgrading to newer models offers prominent features such as lock screen changes, innovative stickers, journals, additional emojis, customization, and more.
Security updates and bug fixes: The recent versions ensure regular critical security updates, ensuring a smooth and efficient user experience.
Better storage space: These versions provide significantly higher storage space, making it easy to store all your data on iCloud.
Improved camera quality: With the launch of every new model, iPhones' camera quality keeps getting better, making them versatile for professional shooting settings as well.
Protection against security flaws: Apple is taking major steps to improve security systems with each upcoming model. Apple iCloud keychain plays a huge role in protecting iPhones from security flaws.
Is Your iPhone Model Obsolete - What to Do Next?
If your iPhone model becomes obsolete, here is what can happen: The official Apple stores might not help you with repairing services as these models are officially expired. Another significant risk is the chance of fraud, as the data in your iPhone might be on the verge, increasing the chances of unwanted scams.
To avoid all the hassle, you can take a few steps to stay aware and cautious:
Stay updated with the list of iPhones officially declared obsolete by Apple.
Try to buy a relevant model. It does not have to be new; a refurbished model will also work.
Trade-in your obsolete iPhone with a newer model. The store may also help you to transfer your data to the new device.
Give it away for recycling at an authorized recycling store. But make sure to erase all your data before you do so.
Spread awareness among your friends and family about this information so that they can update their iPhones regularly.
You can secure a warranty and high-quality service from the Official Apple service stores with an updated model.
The iPhone 6S is the latest model to be declared obsolete, so it won't receive any device updates or services from Apple. However, these older models still hold a special spot for us as they were cool to own before being cool was even a thing.
Final Thoughts:
Overall, it is in your best interest to update your obsolete iPhone model, as Apple discontinues all the hardware services for those models, and the service provider cannot order new parts. You might face critical security issues as your device is not updated with the latest security systems.
While our love for the older, more beloved iPhone models is never-ending, it is also important to take a step ahead and get a new one.
So, when are you upgrading to a new iPhone model?
FAQ's
Q. When did the iPhone 5S officially become obsolete?
A. Apple officially discontinued the manufacture of the iPhone 5S on September 10, 2013.
Q. What can you do with an obsolete iPhone?
A. You can trade in your old iPhone for a newer version or give the obsolete piece to your nearest recycling store.
Q. Is it safe to use an outdated iPhone?
A. No, it is unsafe to use an outdated iPhone, as your data or vulnerabilities might be at great risk.
Q. What happens when your iPhone is obsolete?
A. It stops receiving critical security updates, IOS updates, etc. Your personal data might also be at risk of being scammed.
Q. How do you know if your iPhone is now obsolete?
A. It is declared on Apple's official website. Another indicator is when the hardware parts of an iPhone model stop being manufactured. This is a sign that the model is now officially obsolete.