Obsolete iPhones 2025: Which models will no longer receive iOS 19?

Every year, Apple updates the list of iPhones compatible with new versions of iOS. When an iPhone becomes obsolete , it no longer receives iOS updates or even security patches, making it more vulnerable to cyberattacks and limiting compatibility with certain apps. In 2025, several iPhone models will reach the end of their software support cycle.

So, which iPhones will be obsolete in 2025? Which models will no longer receive iOS 19 and will be phased out by Apple? Here's the list of obsolete iPhones in 2025 —the models that will no longer be updated in 2025—as well as alternatives to consider.

1. Definition of an “obsolete” iPhone in 2025

An iPhone can be considered obsolete based on three main criteria:

1. It is no longer receiving iOS updates : Unable to install new versions of iOS.

2. It no longer has security updates : It becomes vulnerable to vulnerabilities and cyberattacks.

3. It is abandoned by Apple at the hardware level (“Obsolete Service”): No more spare parts or official repairs.

In practice, an iPhone that no longer receives updates can still work, but it loses security and compatibility with certain applications (banks, messaging, new Apple services, etc.). Apple also distinguishes two statuses for its old devices: a model is classified as " vintage " if it has been out of print for more than 5 years (but less than 7 years), and " obsolete " when it has not been sold for more than 7 years. In this article, we mainly use the term obsolete to refer to iPhones that no longer have software support in 2025, even if some have not yet reached 7 years of seniority.

2. List of obsolete iPhones in 2025

iPhones that will no longer receive iOS 19 in 2025 are listed below:

• 🟠 : Latest security update via an earlier version of iOS (e.g. iOS 16.7 for iPhone 8/X in 2025).

• 🔵: Compatible with iOS 18 in 2024, but excluded from iOS 19 in 2025 .

• 🔴: Very old devices, already without software support for several years.

In other words, the iPhone 8/8 Plus and iPhone X (released in 2017) received their final major update with iOS 16 in 2023 and were not eligible for iOS 17 or iOS 18 thereafter. When iOS 19 is released (September 2025), Apple will also drop support for the iPhone XR, XS, and XS Max , these three 2018 models that will remain permanently stuck on iOS 18. Apple typically provides about 5-7 years of major updates to its iPhones, and these devices are just reaching the end of that software lifecycle.

💡 Did you know? Even after they become obsolete , these iPhones can receive periodic security updates to their latest supported iOS version. For example, in 2025 Apple is still rolling out iOS 16 security patches (version 16.7.x) for iPhone 8 and X that cannot upgrade to iOS 17. . Similarly, we can expect fixes on iOS 18 for iPhone XR/XS for some time to extend their lifespan. However, these devices will no longer evolve and will end up accumulating technological delays.

3. Why is an outdated iPhone a problem?

3.1. Lack of security updates

When an iPhone becomes obsolete, Apple stops patching security flaws, making it more vulnerable to cyberattacks, viruses, and malware. The main risks are:

• Increased hacking via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth or browser (Safari) due to unpatched vulnerabilities.

• Non-functional sensitive applications : certain banking apps, messaging apps (e.g. WhatsApp) or recent services may refuse to work on an iOS system that is too old and insecure.

• Personal data exposed : without updates, protection against intrusions or data theft is no longer guaranteed.

Solution: If you're still using an outdated iPhone, consider upgrading to a newer model to protect your data and take advantage of ongoing security patches.

3.2. Incompatibility with new applications

Apps often require a recent version of iOS to function properly. With an iPhone stuck on an older iOS, you may lose access to certain apps over time. For example:

• WhatsApp → No longer works on iPhones running iOS 12 or earlier.

• Banking apps → Several banks no longer support devices running iOS 14/15 or older.

• Modern games and apps → Require higher performance and a recent OS (often iOS 16 or 17 minimum in 2025).

If your iPhone can no longer install the latest version of the apps you need, its use will become very limited in 2025. This is a sign that it is slipping into software obsolescence.

3.3. Degraded battery and poor performance

Beyond software, an iPhone older than 5-7 years often shows physical signs of wear :

• ❌ Tired battery – It discharges much faster than originally, requiring constant recharging.

• ❌ Slowdowns and Crashes – The processor and memory struggle to keep up with current apps optimized for more powerful chips, causing slowdowns or unexpected app crashes.

• ❌ Hardware Bugs – Display, connection (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth) or other issues may appear due to aging internal components.

If your iPhone becomes very slow, heats up unusually, or turns off unexpectedly while the battery still shows a charge, it's probably time to replace it (or at least have the battery replaced if possible).

4. Which iPhone should you choose in 2025 to replace an obsolete model?

If you own an iPhone 8, iPhone X , or an older model (including the already obsolete iPhone 6/6s/7 generations), it's a good idea to plan for a transition. To get an up-to-date device without necessarily paying the price of a new one, here are some alternatives to consider in 2025 :

• iPhone 12 – An affordable and balanced option in 2025, offering 5G and an OLED display for a reasonable price.

• iPhone 13/14 – These models offer significantly better battery life than the older iPhone 8 or X, as well as improved cameras. They will still receive several years of iOS updates.

• iPhone 15 – With its USB-C port, this is the perfect choice if you're looking for the latest technology and at least 5-6 years of peace of mind in terms of updates.

👉 Tip: Consider refurbished iPhones to save money while upgrading. A recent used iPhone (12, 13, 14, etc.) will extend the life of your investment, often with a 12-month warranty included with specialist retailers.

5. Should you replace an obsolete iPhone immediately?

It all depends on your usage and the condition of your device. Ask yourself the following questions:

You can still keep your old iPhone if:
✅ It works well for your basic daily needs (calls, texts, photos, light web).
✅ You are not using recent applications that require a newer iOS than the one installed.
✅ A simple battery replacement could be enough to restore its endurance if that is its only weak point.

Consider replacing it if:
❌ You can no longer install applications that are essential to you (banking, work, messaging, etc.).
❌ It has become too slow, crashes frequently or its battery no longer lasts half a day.
❌ You want to take advantage of recent new features (USB-C, 5G, better cameras, high-frequency displays, etc.) that an older model doesn't offer.

In short, as long as your outdated iPhone still serves its purpose without limiting you, you can safely keep it. But keep in mind that its countdown has begun : no more updates will correct its flaws or improve its compatibility. Sooner or later, you'll have to upgrade to a newer model to stay up-to-date and secure.

Conclusion: Which iPhones will no longer be usable in 2025?

In 2025, several generations of iPhones reach the end of their software support:

• iOS 19 Support Ends : 2018 iPhone XR, XS, and XS Max won't be able to install iOS 19 when it's released in September 2025 They will remain frozen on iOS 18.

• Obsolete models since 2023-2024 : The iPhone 8, 8 Plus, and X (released in 2017) are already excluded from recent versions of iOS (they stopped at iOS 16) and now only receive occasional security updates. .

• Older Generations : Even older models – iPhone 7/7 Plus, iPhone 6s/6s Plus, iPhone 6 and earlier – are already obsolete and have not been supported for several years.

An outdated iPhone will still work in 2025 , but with increasing security risks, increasingly limited app compatibility, and declining performance. To prepare for the future with peace of mind, consider migrating to a newer iPhone (even a refurbished one) to benefit from the latest iOS updates and extend your user experience in good conditions.