what iphones will be obsolete in 2025

3 min read 30-11-2024

Meta Description: Is your iPhone getting long in the tooth? Find out which iPhone models are likely to be considered obsolete by 2025, and what that means for software updates, security patches, and overall performance. We break down the factors to consider and help you plan your next upgrade.

Apple's iOS updates typically support iPhones for several years. However, older devices eventually become obsolete. This means they may no longer receive crucial security updates, software improvements, or even basic app functionality. By 2025, several iPhone models will likely fall into this category. Let's explore which ones and why.

Factors Determining iPhone Obsolescence

Several factors contribute to an iPhone becoming obsolete:

Software Updates: Apple generally supports iPhones with major iOS updates for 5-7 years. After this period, the device will no longer be compatible with the latest software.
Hardware Limitations: Even if an older iPhone receives software updates, its older processor and RAM may struggle to run the latest versions efficiently, leading to slow performance and sluggishness.
Security Patches: Regular security updates are critical for protecting against vulnerabilities. Older iPhones that no longer receive updates become increasingly vulnerable to malware and hacking.
App Compatibility: App developers often optimize their apps for the latest iOS versions. Older iPhones running outdated software may find many apps become incompatible or function poorly.

iPhones Likely to Be Obsolete in 2025

Based on Apple's historical update patterns and typical hardware lifecycles, the following iPhones are strong candidates for obsolescence by 2025:

Likely Obsolete:

iPhone 8 and Earlier: The iPhone 8 and all models preceding it (iPhone 7, iPhone 6s, iPhone 6, etc.) are highly likely to be obsolete by 2025. They are already several years old and may have difficulty running future iOS versions smoothly, even if they initially receive them. Security risks will also be significantly elevated.
iPhone SE (1st and 2nd generation): While the iPhone SE offers a more affordable option, its older hardware is likely to fall behind by 2025. Expect significant performance limitations and lack of future updates.

Possibly Obsolete:

iPhone XR: The iPhone XR, while a relatively newer model, might reach its update lifecycle limit by 2025. Its performance could also become hampered by newer software demands.
iPhone 11: Similar to the XR, the iPhone 11 might be near the end of its supported lifespan by 2025. While it might still receive some updates, performance may degrade.

Likely Still Supported:

iPhone 12 and Newer: Models like the iPhone 12, iPhone 13, iPhone 14, and any future releases are likely to still receive updates and remain functional in 2025. However, even these newer models will eventually become obsolete in future years.

What "Obsolete" Means for Your iPhone

When an iPhone becomes obsolete, it doesn't mean it instantly stops working. You can still use it for basic tasks. However, you'll experience several drawbacks:

Security Vulnerabilities: Your phone becomes more susceptible to malware and hacking.
Performance Issues: Apps may run slowly or crash frequently.
Lack of New Features: You won't get any new iOS features or improvements.
App Incompatibility: Some apps may no longer be compatible.

Planning Your Next Upgrade

If you own an iPhone that's likely to be obsolete by 2025, you might consider upgrading to ensure you're protected by the latest security updates and can enjoy optimal app performance. Consider your budget and the features you need when making your decision. Trade-in options can also help offset the cost of a new device.

Conclusion: Determining precisely which iPhones will be obsolete by 2025 is challenging. However, based on Apple's past update cycles and hardware limitations, the older models mentioned are most likely to reach the end of their functional lifespan. Keeping an eye on Apple's announcements regarding iOS updates is essential to stay informed about the future support for your device. Regularly backing up your data is crucial, regardless of your iPhone's age. This safeguards your information in case of any issues.