The iPhone 6 was released in 2014 and is now approaching its 10th anniversary. With newer models like the iPhone 14 recently launching, many iPhone 6 owners wonder if their device still receives software and hardware support from Apple in 2023.
Does the iPhone 6 get iOS updates?
The iPhone 6 originally launched with iOS 8 and received updates up through iOS 12. However, it did not receive iOS 13 or later updates. This means the iPhone 6 is stuck on iOS 12, which was released in 2018. iOS 12 does not get any new features or security updates from Apple anymore. So the iPhone 6 does not receive any iOS software updates as of 2023.
Does the iPhone 6 get app support?
Many apps require later iOS versions to run. Since the iPhone 6 can only run iOS 12, any apps that require iOS 13 or later will not be able to install or run on the iPhone 6. This means many newer apps and app updates cannot be used on the iPhone 6. Apps that do still support iOS 12 will work, but app support is limited due to the outdated operating system.
Does the iPhone 6 get security updates?
Along with iOS updates, Apple releases regular security updates to patch vulnerabilities in iOS devices. However, since the iPhone 6 cannot update past iOS 12, it does not receive any security updates for known issues and exploits. Using an iPhone 6 in 2023 comes with significant security risks since it cannot protect against newly discovered threats.
Does the iPhone 6 get hardware repairs from Apple?
Apple classifies the iPhone 6 as a vintage product that is obsolete. This means Apple and Apple Authorized Service Providers will not repair or service the iPhone 6. iPhone 6 owners cannot get any official hardware repairs, battery replacements, or other services from Apple. Third party and DIY repairs are the only option.
Does the iPhone 6 get battery replacement parts?
Since Apple does not offer repairs, there are also no genuine Apple battery replacement parts for the iPhone 6. Users have to resort to third party or DIY battery swaps. Getting a replacement battery for the iPhone 6 is still possible, but it won’t be from official Apple parts.
Conclusion
The iPhone 6 definitely does not get full support from Apple anymore as of 2023. It no longer receives iOS updates, security updates, app support for newer apps, repairs from Apple, or genuine replacement batteries. Using an iPhone 6 comes with substantial drawbacks and risks. While it can still function for basic use on older apps, the lack of updates and support severely limits the iPhone 6’s capabilities and security in 2023 vs. newer models. Upgrading to a newer iPhone that gets full Apple support is recommended for the best experience.
iPhone 6 Support Timeline
| Date | Support Status |
|---|---|
| September 2014 | iPhone 6 launched with iOS 8 |
| September 2015 | iOS 9 released for iPhone 6 |
| September 2016 | iOS 10 released for iPhone 6 |
| September 2017 | iOS 11 released for iPhone 6 |
| September 2018 | Last supported iOS 12 released for iPhone 6 |
| September 2019 | iOS 13 launched, no support for iPhone 6 |
| October 2020 | iOS 14 launched, no support for iPhone 6 |
| September 2021 | iOS 15 launched, no support for iPhone 6 |
| October 2022 | iOS 16 launched, no support for iPhone 6 |
This timeline shows how the iPhone 6 received 5 years of iOS support from its launch until iOS 12. But since 2018, it has received no new iOS releases or updates.
Newest iPhone models that get full support
While the iPhone 6 is well past support, these recent iPhone models fully support the latest iOS 16 and get regular software and security updates:
iPhone 14
The iPhone 14 lineup released in September 2022 can run iOS 16 and will get software updates for many years to come. It has the newest hardware and specs.
iPhone 13
The iPhone 13 series launched in September 2021 can run iOS 16. It will continue receiving updates for several more years.
iPhone 12
The iPhone 12 series from 2020 can also run iOS 16 and gets full software support from Apple.
iPhone 11
Even the iPhone 11 from September 2019 supports iOS 16. It also gets security patches and fixes.
The iPhone 14, 13, 12, and 11 families are the best choices if you want an iPhone that will be fully supported for years into the future.
How to check iOS support for any iPhone model
You can identify whether any iPhone will support new iOS versions:
- Check Apple’s iOS support page at https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT201296
- Compare the phone’s release date – newer iPhones get 5-6+ years of updates
- Check if the current iOS version is compatible during setup
- Try updating to the latest iOS – if you cannot, the phone is past support
Using these steps, you can determine if an iPhone you may own or are considering buying will get the newest iOS updates from Apple.
Summary
To summarize, the iPhone 6 does not get full Apple support as of 2023 since it is limited to iOS 12 from 2018. It no longer receives software updates, security patches, app support for newer apps, repairs from Apple, or genuine replacement parts. While still usable on older apps, upgrading to a newer iPhone model like the latest iPhone 14, 13, or 12 families is recommended for the best experience and support.