Along with iOS 26.2.1, Apple has released an updated version of iOS 12 for devices that still run that operating system, eight years after the software was originally released. iOS 12.5.8 is available for the iPhone 5s and iPhone 6, meaning Apple continues to support those devices 13 and 12 years after their release, respectively.
See also: Apple: What to expect from the iPhone 17e in 2026
The iPhone 5s was released in September 2013, while the iPhone 6 was released in September 2014. According to Apple's release notes for the update, iOS 12.5.8 extends the certificate required for features like iMessage, FaceTime, and device activation so they continue to work beyond January 2027.
Initially, features that depended on the certificate, such as device activation, would stop when the certificate expired, but now essential features on the two older iPhones will continue to work for years to come. Before now, the iPhone 5s and iPhone 6 last received software updates in January 2023, when Apple released important security patches.
See also: iOS 27: New features, release date and more
Apple has publicly committed to providing at least five years of security updates for an iPhone from the time it’s released, but it often offers vulnerability fixes for even longer. For example, the iPhone 6s, which was released 11 years ago, received a security update in September 2025 with the release of iOS 15.8.5. The device just received an iOS 15.8.6 update today, adding the same certificate extension.
See also: iPhone 18 Pro & iPhone Fold feature details
Apple also released new versions of iOS 18 and iOS 16. This article, “iPhone 5s Gets New Software Update 13 Years After Its Release,” appeared first on MacRumors.com.
