iPhone 5s receives iOS update 13 years after launch

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It's rare for a smartphone to receive an official update more than a decade after its release. That's exactly what has happened with the iPhone 5s. Apple has once again demonstrated that even very old devices don't immediately lose support when it comes to basic functions.

Simultaneously with iOS 26.2.1, Apple released a new version of iOS 12. This update is intended for devices still running this operating system. Eight years after the original release of iOS 12 and a full 13 years after the launch of the iPhone 5s, this software update is primarily a technical improvement rather than a cosmetic one.

iOS 12.5.8 for iPhone 5s and iPhone 6

The new update is version 12.5.8. It is available for the iPhone 5s and the iPhone 6. The iPhone 5s was released in September 2013, and the iPhone 6 followed in September 2014. Apple is therefore still supporting these two models 13 and 12 years, respectively, after their introduction.

Renewal of important certificates

According to the official release notes, iOS 12.5.8 extends the certificate validity of essential functions, including iMessage, FaceTime, and device activation. Without this extension, certificate-dependent features would have ceased to function in January 2027.

The update ensures that these services remain operational beyond this point. Functions that would originally have been deactivated upon certificate expiration will therefore continue to run reliably.

Why the update was necessary

Certificates have a limited validity period. If such a certificate expires, certain system functions may no longer work correctly. On the iPhone 5s and iPhone 6, this would have meant that basic services like messaging, video calling, or even device activation would have been affected. iOS 12.5.8 prevents precisely this problem and ensures the continued operation of the devices.

The last updates were years old

Before the latest update, the iPhone 5s and iPhone 6 last received new software in January 2023. At that time, the update consisted of important security updates. Since then, there had been no further updates until now, with the release of iOS 12.5.8.

Apple's update policy in comparison

Apple officially states that it provides security updates for iPhones for at least five years from their release. In practice, support often lasts considerably longer. The iPhone 6s is a good example. Released around eleven years ago, it received a security update, iOS 15.8.5, in September 2025. Today, it was followed by iOS 15.8.6, which also includes a certificate renewal.

More iOS versions released

Alongside iOS 12.5.8, Apple also released new versions of iOS 18 and iOS 16. These updates support both current devices and significantly older models simultaneously. The manufacturer thus covers multiple generations in parallel, which is not a given in the smartphone market.

iPhone 5s: A background update with a major impact

The new update for the iPhone 5s isn't a feature leap, but it's technically crucial. Even 13 years after its market launch, Apple is ensuring that essential core services continue to function. This is unusual for a device of this age and demonstrates that Apple's software support often extends beyond the official minimum specifications. The best products for you: Our Amazon storefront offers a wide selection of accessories, including those compatible with HomeKit. (Image: Shutterstock / Oleg GawriloFF)