According to a reliable source, internal documents indicate that support for some Apple services, except iCloud, for iOS 11, macOS High Sierra and others will end in May.
Apple released iOS 11, macOS High Sierra, watchOS 4 and tvOS 11 in 2017. These operating systems have been out of use for years and any device that still runs them can be updated. According to the informant “Fudge” or @StellaFudge on Twitter Starting in early May, some 2017 operating systems will no longer be able to access Apple services, with the exception of iCloud. Those still using these operating systems will likely be asked to update.
The following operating systems are affected
- iOS 11 to iOS 11.2.6
- macOS High Sierra 10.13 to macOS 10.13.3
- watchOS 4 to watchOS 4.2.3
- tvOS 11 to tvOS 11.2.6
Each of these operating systems dates back to 2017 and most compatible devices should be able to upgrade to at least the next OS version.
Apple Services: Users should think about updates
For example, any iPhone that supports iOS 11 will also support iOS 12. No reason was given for the discontinuation of Apple services. Security updates are made available for iOS 15, macOS Monterey and macOS Big Sur from time to time. Apple services include Apple TV+, Apple Music, Apple Arcade and Apple Fitness+, among others. Since iCloud is exempt from this change, it is not clear how this will affect services such as Mail or iMessage syncing. According to Fudge, this information comes from an internal document intended for "advisors". Users are urged to update to the latest version of iOS or other operating systems available for their product. For those still using an iPhone 7 or an earlier generation, it might be time to upgrade. (Image: Apple)
