No, Apple no longer supports the iPhone 5; updates and official hardware service ended years ago.
If you’re holding onto an iPhone 5, you likely want a straight answer on where it stands today. This guide lays out what “support” means in Apple’s world, what still works on the handset, where it falls short, and the smartest next steps. You’ll see where the line is drawn on software, security, repairs, networks, and apps—so you can decide if keeping it makes sense or if it’s time to move on.
What “Support” Actually Covers
Apple uses the word “support” across a few buckets. There’s system software (iOS updates and security fixes), services (iCloud, Apple ID sign-in, iMessage), hardware help (repairs and parts), and practical day-to-day compatibility with carriers and apps. The iPhone 5 sits at the end of the road in several of these areas.
Fast Overview: Current Status By Area
The snapshot below gives you a wide view before we dig into details.
| Area | Status For iPhone 5 | What That Means |
|---|---|---|
| iOS Version | Stops at iOS 10.3.4 | No new features or major upgrades after 2019; stuck on legacy APIs. |
| Security Updates | Ended | Modern vulnerabilities are not patched on iOS 10.x. |
| App Store Support | Limited | Many apps require newer iOS; countless titles won’t install or update. |
| Apple Services | Partial | Apple ID sign-in, iMessage, and iCloud may work, but features are limited. |
| Hardware Repair | Obsolete | Official parts/service from Apple are discontinued. |
| Carrier Calling | Spotty | Many networks ended 3G; calling can fail where VoLTE is required. |
| Web & Email | Basic | Simple browsing and mail can work, but modern sites may break. |
| Battery Longevity | Aged | Cells from this era tend to be worn; runtime is short unless replaced. |
Does Apple Provide Support For The iPhone 5 Now?
Short answer: no. Apple places older hardware into “vintage” and “obsolete” lists after set timeframes. The iPhone 5 sits beyond those windows, so Apple stores and authorized providers no longer offer standard repairs or order parts for it. Apple’s current policy page spells this out clearly under “vintage” and “obsolete” classifications (vintage/obsolete products).
Software Stopped At iOS 10.3.4
The handset’s last stop was iOS 10.3.4. In late 2019, Apple shipped a one-off fix tied to GPS time rollover, and that was it for system-level updates on this model. Since then, newer iOS branches moved on, and security remediation shifted to devices that can run later versions.
Security Posture Today
iOS 10 no longer receives patches. When new browser or system bugs surface, Apple focuses on supported OS lines. As a result, a legacy phone like this carries risk on open networks, untrusted links, and modern web apps. That doesn’t mean every page is a hazard; it means you lack defenses that newer devices get by default.
Why Apps Feel Stuck
Another roadblock isn’t just iOS version—it’s architecture. iOS moved to 64-bit-only apps years ago. Developers target modern SDKs, and many titles require iOS 12, 15, or later. On iOS 10, new installs often fail, and older app versions (if they even appear) may be missing features or cloud sign-in support.
Everyday Consequences
- Banking & Wallet: Many apps refuse to run on old OS builds. Web fallbacks may work, but with layout or login quirks.
- Messaging: iMessage can still send texts, though features like newer emoji sets or effects may not display as intended.
- Streaming: Services push modern DRM and codecs; older clients hit compatibility walls.
- Smart Home & Wearables: Companion apps often require newer iOS versions, blocking pairing or updates.
Networks: Where Calling Can Break
Many carriers retired 3G. In places where voice now rides strictly over LTE (VoLTE) and older models lack the right implementation, calls drop or fail outright. The U.S. regulator offers a plain-English guide on the phase-out that explains the impact and timelines (FCC 3G phase-out guide). If your local operator forces VoLTE for voice and the handset can’t meet the requirement, you may get data on LTE yet lose calling.
What Still Works Over Data
In areas with LTE coverage, basic browsing and email can load. Simple sites render; complex, script-heavy pages may crawl. Many modern certificates and encryption libraries expect newer system components, so some secure sites fail to load or warn about outdated support. Lightweight web mail can bail you out where native apps stop updating.
Who Can Keep Using It, And How
If you’re determined to keep the phone around a little longer, limit the scope. Treat it like a small, offline-leaning device with a few safe online tasks.
Low-Risk, High-Value Roles
- Dedicated Music Player: Load local tracks, use AirPlay to speakers, keep it off public Wi-Fi.
- Car Dash Device: Offline maps and downloaded podcasts; connect to a hotspot only when needed.
- Kids’ Camera/Recorder: Simple photos and videos, no app installs required.
- Spare Travel Phone: Use a local SIM for basic data where compatible; don’t rely on it for critical logins.
Risks You Should Weigh
Before relying on it day to day, weigh the downsides:
- Security Gaps: No patches for new exploits on iOS 10.
- Calling Reliability: 3G retirements can break voice service in many markets.
- Battery Wear: Original cells often sag under load and cold; shutdowns are common.
- Account Access: Some sites flag old WebKit versions; two-factor prompts may fail to display correctly.
Should You Upgrade Now?
If the phone is more than a backup toy, yes—migrating to a modern model pays off fast. You regain security patches, app compatibility, VoLTE/5G voice support on most carriers, better cameras, and battery health features. Even a budget-tier recent model will feel like a leap in speed and reliability.
How To Migrate Smoothly
- Back Up: Use iTunes/Finder on a Mac or PC for a local encrypted backup. It’s faster and preserves more data.
- Audit Two-Factor: Make sure you can log in to email and cloud accounts on another device before you wipe the old phone.
- Clean House: Remove unknown profiles, uninstall abandoned apps, and sign out of services.
- Transfer: On your new phone, use Quick Start or restore from the encrypted backup.
- De-authorize: Sign out of Apple ID on the old device after confirming the new one works as expected.
What You Gain After Leaving iOS 10
Moving to a newer device unlocks dozens of daily wins. Here’s a concise view.
| Upgrade Benefit | How It Shows Up | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Active Security Fixes | Regular iOS updates and Rapid Security Responses | Shields you from fresh WebKit and system exploits. |
| VoLTE & Wi-Fi Calling | Reliable voice where 3G is gone | Calls connect on modern networks without workarounds. |
| App Compatibility | New apps install; old ones update again | Banking, rideshare, and health apps run as intended. |
| Battery Health Tools | Charge management and battery stats | Longer runtime and fewer surprise shutdowns. |
| Camera & Storage | Better sensors and efficient codecs | Sharper photos and smaller files with HEIF/HEVC. |
| Privacy Controls | Granular permissions, tracking limits | Less data exposure when apps request access. |
What If You Still Want Repairs?
Official parts and service are no longer offered for this model through Apple’s channels, as the product sits in the obsolete category mentioned earlier. Third-party shops might swap a battery or screen using aftermarket parts, but quality and availability vary. For mission-critical use, investing in repairs on such old hardware rarely pays back; a newer certified-refurbished device often costs little more and delivers far better uptime.
Buying A Used One Today
Thinking about picking up a used unit for a niche task? Check these items first:
- Carrier Fit: Confirm local operators still accept IMEIs for data and that calling will function where you live.
- Battery Cycle Count: A heavily cycled cell shortens endurance; budget for replacement if you must proceed.
- Buttons & Ports: Lightning port wear and sticky buttons are common at this age.
- Activation Lock: Make sure the seller has removed their Apple ID completely.
Safe Use Tips If You Keep It
Not ready to retire it? Tighten the setup so you reduce exposure.
Settings That Help
- Use A Modern Browser On Another Device For Logins: Avoid entering passwords on the old phone; rely on the new one for sensitive sessions.
- Turn Off Unused Radios: Disable Bluetooth and Wi-Fi when idle to save battery and shrink the attack surface.
- Install Only Trusted Apps You Already Own: Skip sketchy downloads; prefer offline tools.
- Stick To Known Networks: If you must connect, use a personal hotspot you control.
Recycling Or Trade-In
If it’s time to part with the device, wipe it, remove the SIM, and send it to a legitimate take-back program. Apple offers free recycling in many regions via prepaid shipping labels and in-store drop-off through its trade-in site (linked from Apple’s recycling info in the iPhone user guide). You keep data safe and keep e-waste out of the bin.
Bottom Line
The iPhone 5 no longer receives iOS upgrades, security patches, or official repairs. Many carriers moved voice service to LTE only, which disrupts calling on this model in numerous markets. You can still squeeze life from it in narrow roles—music player, offline navigator, basic spare—but as a daily driver, it’s past its window. If you need dependable calling, current apps, and ongoing fixes, move to a later model and enjoy the leap in speed, battery life, and peace of mind.