In August 2026, Apple officially confirmed its device support strategy for the new operating system, iOS 27. While the company maintained support for all iPhone models, including legendary smartphones from previous years, owners of iPad tablets, Mac computers, and Apple Watch smartwatches faced unexpected limitations. With the release of new OS versions, a range of gadgets will no longer receive major system updates, marking a significant stage in the company's product lifecycle.

Update Strategy: iPhone vs. Other Devices

The main surprise for users was that iOS 27 would be available for all current and even some older iPhone models. This decision by Apple demonstrates a desire to extend the life of flagship smartphones. However, for other categories of devices, the company's policy became stricter. iPads, Mac computers, and Apple Watch smartwatches released several years ago will not receive new versions of operating systems. This means that users of these devices will remain on previous software versions, without access to new features and capabilities that will be implemented in iOS 27.

Security and Patches: What Owners of Old Gadgets Will Keep

The cessation of new OS releases does not mean that old gadgets will turn into trash. Apple continues to release patches and fix critical vulnerabilities for old OS versions for several years after active development ceases. This allows users to safely use basic functions such as messengers, calls, and internet access. However, it is important to understand that new features, especially those related to AI algorithms, will not work on older models.

Recommendations for Using Devices Without New OS Support

When Apple completely stops releasing security updates for a specific system, the gadget becomes vulnerable to cyberattacks. In this case, it is better not to use the device for actions involving sensitive or personal data. Experts recommend that owners of older devices limit their use to basic tasks and regularly check for the latest available security patches. This will help minimize risks and extend the gadget's lifespan.

Contradictory Data

There are discrepancies in various sources regarding the exact list of devices that will remain without updates. Some sources indicate that only certain iPad and Mac models will not receive new OS versions, while others report a broader list. Additionally, there are disagreements regarding the timeframe during which Apple will continue to release security patches for older devices. These contradictions require further clarification and may be related to differences in the interpretation of the company's official statements.

Conclusions and Prospects

Overall, Apple's decision to support all iPhone models within iOS 27 is a positive step for smartphone users. However, for owners of tablets, computers, and smartwatches, this means the need for a more careful approach to the security and functionality of their devices. In the future, the company may review its update policy to ensure more uniform support for all product categories.