We know it’s unlikely but it’s not that unlikely. Apple’s devices tend to have long lifespans, far longer than most tech does. So it’s not out of the question that some of you are still using an Apple iPhone 5, even though the handset first launched in 2012. The question now is: do you want to keep using it?
Affirmative action
If the answer to that question was a resounding “Yes!”, then we’d like to draw your attention to a little missive from Apple. If you’re still using an iPhone 5 and would like it to keep functioning, you should update to iOS 10.3.4 as soon as you can. There’s a deadline for this one — 3 November 2019. Don’t miss this deadline.
If your iPhone 5 isn’t running at least iOS 10.3.4 by the date specified, then the device will be unable to “…maintain accurate GPS location and to continue to use functions that rely on correct date and time including App Store, iCloud, email, and web browsing.” That’s a compelling reason to check that you’re running the required operating system. And, handily, it’s not Apple’s fault. A whole bunch of older (non-Apple) hardware needed updates from 6 April this year to keep GPS functions going. Now it’s Apple’s turn to make sure everything is peachy with its older tech.
Check it
In order to check which version of iOS you’re running on your iPhone 5, head to Settings, then General, then About. You’re looking for the Software Version entry, which should have 10.3.4. If it doesn’t, you should update the software immediately. It’s not a train smash if you miss the deadline, but you’ll find yourself jumping through additional hoops in order to get the GPS functions working again. The update will then have to be done via a Mac or PC download using a wired connection. Because… well, OTA updates will be toast.