Apple has quietly rolled out a surprise software update for several of its oldest devices, proving once again its long-term support commitment.
Alongside the recent iOS 26.2.1 and iPadOS 26.2.1 updates for newer models, Apple has released iOS 12.5.8 and iPadOS 12.5.8 for legacy iPhones, iPads, and iPods that are more than a decade old.
The latest update is available for the iPhone 5s (13 years old), iPhone 6, iPhone 6 Plus, iPad Air (1st generation), iPad mini 2, iPad mini 3, and iPod touch 6th generation. Apple is strongly recommending users of these devices to install the update as soon as possible to avoid service disruptions in the future.
While iOS 12.5.8 does not introduce any new features or visual changes, it plays a crucial role behind the scenes. According to Apple, the update extends essential system certifications required for iMessage, FaceTime, and device activation. Without this update, affected devices may lose access to these core Apple services after January 2027.
This makes the update particularly important for users who still rely on older Apple hardware for daily communication or as secondary devices. Even though these models no longer receive feature upgrades, Apple continues to ensure their basic functionality and security remain intact.
Apple originally launched iOS 12 back in 2018, making it one of the longest-supported operating systems in the company’s history. The tech giant had also released a security-focused update for the iPhone 5s and iPhone 6 in 2023, highlighting its ongoing efforts to protect users even on aging hardware.
The move has been widely appreciated by long-time Apple users, especially at a time when many Android devices lose official support after just a few years. Apple’s continued updates for older devices not only improve device longevity but also help users stay connected without being forced into frequent hardware upgrades.
Users can install iOS 12.5.8 by heading to Settings > General > Software Update on their compatible devices.