Apple tech news: don't give up on your old iPhones when these four solutions exist

Could you imagine the emotional whiplash you'd feel living your normal 2024 life only to see someone pull out a first-gen iPhone? Those things are almost old enough to vote, but there's a reason you don't see them around anymore. Like every other major smartphone manufacturer, Apple releases updated operating systems and better hardware every few years. That's not news. The real Apple tech news to keep your eye on is which iPhones Apple still supports.

Which devices work with iOS 17.5.1?

With the release of iOS 17.5 in late May 2024, Apple has officially discontinued support for the iPhone 8 and iPhone X, both released in 2017. Get out your violin or see if you can find that lighter app everyone had back when the iPod Touch was big because we're saying goodbye to a champion, but don't spend all your time mourning.

If you haven't already, you can easily check which devices still support iOS 17 after the most recent update. Basically, if you have an iPhone XS or later, you're good. For iPad users, just make sure you have an iPad mini 5th gen or later. That includes models like the iPad Pro 10.5-inch and 6th gen or later iPads. 

Apple cancelling support for a device means these devices will no longer receive software updates, including security patches. That means they're more vulnerable to potential security risks and miss out on new features. If that doesn't seem too bad, remember your apps also care about which OS you have. Many major apps don't work on older operating systems. Or if they do work, they're laggy, buggy, and sort of defeat the purpose of the whole smart part of your smartphone.

This decision follows Apple's pattern of phasing out older devices; for example, iOS 16 dropped support for the iPhone 6s, the original iPhone SE, and the iPhone 7. If you're rocking an older iOS device, there's still plenty of ways to add some modern comforts to your old school iPhone. Here's four ideas to try. 

Try software that repairs your iOS device

An excellent tool for modernizing existing Apple devices is AnyFix. This software works through your iOS, iPadOS, or even tvOS device to search for common issues. If it identifies a problem, you get three ways to fix it depending on the severity.

The real win here is that you won't lose any of your data. AnyFix works with over 130 common system issues for iOS devices and more than 200 iTunes errors (we see you, 2024 iTunes users). The best part is that AnyFix does most of the work for you. You don't have to be a tech pro or even tech savvy to run it. It can even help you reset your iPhone, iPad, or iPod. No need to learn to reset your device on your own. 

These AirPod alternatives give you a sonic refresh

There's more than one way to make an old device feel new. The speakers might be a little tinny and the 3.5mm jack might be worn out (and replaced in newer models, RIP), but AirPods aren't your only way to go. These Bluetooth 5.0 Earbuds add some style to your tech loadout.

Now that you've used AnyFix to get your old iTunes account up to snuff, you can immerse yourself in music for up to 40 hours (that's including the charger case). These earbuds also have touch controls, so even if your phone screen is a little laggy, you don't have to deal with it to change songs or take a call. 

Or just get an iPad

Like this 6th gen iPad 

If you relied on your iPhone 10 for work or school, the better alternative to resetting your phone is upgrading, and iPads are a solid option. This refurbished 6th Gen iPad has a few years on it, biut the battery still lasts up to 10 hours, and you get a whole suite of accessories including a stylus, case, and screen protector. 

If you're looking for a tablet you can use for lightweight productivity (think emails, essay writing, etc), this is your chance. 256GB local storage means you have plenty of space for apps or HD photos snapped with the 12MP rear cam or 7Mp front-facing camera. 

Or this iPad Pro

iPad users are reeling from the iOS 17.5.1 update as much as anyone, but this iPad Pro still supports the latest software updates. Plus, it has a spacious Retina display, a 12MP iSight Rear cam, and the 256GB local storage is practically begging to be packed with apps that will definitely keep you on task during your meetings. Sure, they will. 

Grade "B" refurbished means this iPad might have some light signs of wear, but the battery still lasts for up to 10 hours, and any scuffs or scrapes don't touch the screen and aren't visible from two feet away. You also get a free tempered glass screen protector, a case, and an OEM charger. 

When Apple cancels support for your device

Releasing iOS 17.5 was a big step forward, but it's always a little sad when your trusty old phone has to be put out to pasture. Still, that doesn't mean you have to drop everything and grab the latest, greatest, and most expensive Apple Tech. It just means it takes a little extra work to make your iPhone or iPad on the cusp work like new. 

Time will march on with new Apple updates taking newer devices off the table, but there'll always be tools and tricks to keep your old faithful phone chugging along. Or, worst case, cost effective ways to replace it. 

StackSocial prices subject to change.