Apple ends iCloud support for iOS 10 and macOS Sierra

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Apple has discontinued iCloud support for devices running iOS 10 and macOS Sierra. Both systems were released in September 2016 and are now considered obsolete. They no longer meet the minimum requirements to fully utilize iCloud. Those who want to continue accessing services like iCloud Drive, iCloud Photos, or iCloud Backups will need at least iOS 11 or macOS High Sierra.

The cloud has played a central role in Apple's ecosystem for years. iCloud ensures that photos, documents, passwords, and backups are always available and can be seamlessly synchronized between iPhone, iPad, and Mac. With the end of support for iOS 10 and macOS Sierra, Apple is demonstrating its clear focus on current and more secure operating systems. Older devices that no longer receive updates can no longer use the cloud service.

Which devices are affected

iOS devices are particularly affected by the change. iOS 10 was the last version available for the following models:

iPhone 5 (2012)
iPhone 5c (2013)
iPad 4th generation (2012)

Since these devices cannot be updated to iOS 11, they permanently lose access to iCloud services. The situation is somewhat different for Macs. macOS Sierra could be installed on all devices that also support macOS High Sierra. This means that only those who haven't updated their Mac to High Sierra or a newer system will lose the ability to continue using iCloud with Sierra.

Which iCloud services will be discontinued

With the end of support, key iCloud features will no longer work on devices running iOS 10 and macOS Sierra. These include:

iCloud Drive for files and documents
iCloud backups for automatic backup of iOS devices
iCloud Photos for synchronizing your photo library
iCloud Keychain for managing passwords and access data
“Find My iPhone” or “Find My” to locate devices

Without an update to iOS 11 or macOS High Sierra, you will only be able to log in with an Apple ID, but the actual cloud services will no longer be available.

Why Apple is taking this step

Every year, Apple releases new versions of iOS and macOS that contain not only new features but, more importantly, security improvements. Systems that haven't been updated in years pose a risk and no longer meet modern cloud standards. By excluding iOS 10 and macOS Sierra from iCloud, Apple frees up resources for the further development of current operating systems.

Apple draws a line under iOS 10 and macOS Sierra

With the end of iCloud support for iOS 10 and macOS Sierra, Apple is drawing a clear line in the sand. Devices like the iPhone 5, iPhone 5c, and the fourth-generation iPad will permanently lose access to cloud services. On the Mac side, all models that still support at least macOS High Sierra can continue to be used – provided they have been updated. This decision makes it clear that iCloud only works with current systems, and older devices will gradually disappear from the Apple ecosystem. (Image: Apple)