Apple iOS 12.5.8 Update: Apple just released a rare software update for one of its oldest iPhones. The iPhone, originally launched in September 2013 ha just received a new update.

Yes, the Apple iPhone 5s has just received the iOS 12.5.8 update. The update arrives alongside iOS 26.2.1 for the newer models. The iOS 12.5.8 update is specifically designed for iOS 12 running devices, including iPhone 5s and iPhone 6. Apple says that the update will help to keep the key services running on the ageing devices, helping people to use the devices for longer.

Apple iOS 12.5.8 Update Changelogs

As per the release notes by Apple, iOS 12.5.8 extends the essential system certificate required to keep the core services running, such as:

- iMessages

- Facetime

- Device activation

What if you don't update Apple iOS 12.5.8?

If you are not willing to update your smartphone to iOS 12.5.8, the certificate-based services will stop working. According to Apple, this update will extend the certificate expiry and will keep the abovementioned functions operational beyond January 2027.

Apple iOS 12.5.8 Update Supported Devices

The last update for the iPhone 5s and iPhone 6 arrived in January 2023 bringing some security fixes. People assumed that was marked as the last software update for the device. And it was till now. But now we have another update for both.

Apple iOS update policy

Unlike Android manufacturers, Apple does not confirm fixed years of software update policy, but some regulators in the UK confirm a minimum of 5 years of updates for newer models such as the iPhone 15 Pro Max. Apple usually exceeds the expectations by giving more updates even after the end of the policy. However, in real-world examples, we can see that Apple can stretch the updates when it thinks that the systems are at risk.