Apple’s annual Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) is set to take place in June 2023, and as always, the tech giant is expected to unveil a host of new products, including the latest versions of its operating systems. This year, the company is reportedly gearing up to announce the latest iOS 17, iPadOS 17, watchOS, macOS, and other software updates for its ecosystem of products.
While the new updates are expected to bring about new functionality to Apple devices, a recent report by MacRumors suggests that some iPhones and iPads may not be eligible to receive the latest updates. Here’s what we know so far.
According to the MacRumors report, Apple may provide the iOS 17 update to iPhones that received the iOS 16 update, which means that the iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus, and iPhone X will not be eligible for the latest update. The devices launched after these models will be eligible for the iOS 17 update, however, which includes the following:
- iPhone XS
- iPhone XS Max
- iPhone XR
- iPhone 11
- iPhone 11 Pro series
- iPhone 12 series
- iPhone 12 Pro series
- iPhone 13 series
- iPhone 13 Pro series
- iPhone 14 series
- iPhone 14 Pro series
As for the iPads, the report indicates that the first-generation iPad Pro 9.7-inch, iPad Pro 12.9-inch, and iPad (fifth generation) will not be able to receive the upcoming iPadOS 17 update. It’s worth noting that these devices were released between 2016 and 2017, which means they are relatively old in tech terms.
Why Some Devices Are Not Eligible for iOS 17 and iPadOS 17 Updates
The reasons behind Apple’s decision to exclude some devices from the latest updates are not entirely clear. It’s possible that the older hardware may not be able to support the new features and improvements that come with the updates, or that the company wants to encourage users to upgrade to newer models.
In the past, Apple has been criticized for what some users see as planned obsolescence, where older devices become less useful over time as newer updates are released. However, Apple has also been praised for its commitment to user privacy and security, and it’s possible that the decision to exclude some devices from the latest updates is related to these concerns.
What Should You Do if Your Device Is Ineligible for iOS 17 and iPadOS 17 Updates?
If you own an iPhone or iPad that’s not eligible for the iOS 17 or iPadOS 17 updates, you’ll need to decide whether to stick with your current device or upgrade to a newer model. If you’re happy with the functionality of your current device and don’t need the latest features, there’s no need to upgrade. However, if you rely on your device for work or other important tasks, or if you simply want the latest features, upgrading to a newer model may be the best option.
In conclusion, while some Apple devices may not be eligible for the latest iOS 17 and iPadOS 17 updates, it’s important to remember that this is not a new phenomenon. As technology continues to evolve at a rapid pace, some devices will inevitably become outdated and unable to support the latest updates. If you’re unsure whether your device is eligible for the latest updates, check Apple’s website for more information or consult with an Apple representative.