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Starting in early May, Apple users who are still using older versions of iOS, macOS, watchOS, and tvOS will lose access to most of the company’s services, according to a Twitter user with a reliable track record. While iCloud will still be available, services like the App Store, Siri, and Maps will no longer function on devices running certain older software versions.
The affected software versions include iOS 11 through iOS 11.2.6, macOS 10.13 through macOS 10.13.3, watchOS 4 through watchOS 4.2.3, and tvOS 11 through tvOS 11.2.6. Apple has not provided an explanation for why its services will no longer work on these older versions, but the company did state in a support document last month that users will need to update their software to continue using these services.
Apple may also notify affected users through a push notification to encourage them to update their devices to newer software versions. The move will impact only a small percentage of users, as the older software versions were released between late 2017 and early 2018, and as of mid-February, Apple reported that only 8% of actively used iPhones were running iOS 14 or older.
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Apple has been known to stop supporting older software versions to focus on newer releases, so it is not surprising that the company is making this move. This will also encourage users to update their devices and take advantage of the latest features and security enhancements. However, some users who are still using older devices may be disappointed that they will no longer be able to access most of Apple’s services.
