Although the iPhone 5S was not updated with iOS in a long time (it stopped at iOS 12), the company still releases security patches for the device every now and again. Updates are welcome as the model turns ten years old.
The iPhone 5S’s last operating system upgrade was in 2018. However, the company did not stop monitoring the “health” and subsequent updates to the old model. This week, iOS version 12.5.7 was unintentionally released to the device that was first released in 2013.
Although there isn’t much to say about iOS 12.5.7, it is still important for people who have older smartphones that can run the software. Apple has closed a long-standing security flaw that allowed malicious web content to be processed and arbitrary code to executed. Apple documentation emphasizes that the vulnerability can still be exploited by devices running older versions of iOS 15.1.
Even though the iPhone 5S is the oldest Apple smartphone, iPhone 6 Plus and iPhone 6 Plus owners will also be able to get the update. The update is recommended for users of these gadgets.
The Verge reports that Apple frequently releases updates for older devices. The appearance of a “patch”, for a smartphone that is more than nine years old, is an example of this kind of record. Android smartphone manufacturers also try to offer a similar level, at least partially, of support. Samsung, Google and OnePlus all release security updates every five years. However, these updates are only available for certain flagship models. It is possible that other gadget makers will take the initiative of these companies.