How to Check if Your Apple Device Still Gets Security Fixes

This guide shows you how to verify whether your iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch, or Apple TV is still receiving security updates from Apple. You’ll learn where to check your device’s model and software version, how to find Apple’s official support list, and how to interpret the results so you know if your device is safe to keep using or should be upgraded.

What You’ll Need

• Your Apple device (or access to its model number and current OS version)
• An internet connection to view Apple’s support pages
• Optional: a computer or another device to browse the web while you check your Apple device

Step-by-Step

1. Identify your device model. On an iPhone or iPad, go to Settings > General > About and note the Model Name and Model Number. On a Mac, click the Apple menu () > About This Mac. On an Apple Watch, open the Watch app on your iPhone, then tap General > About. For Apple TV, go to Settings > General > About.
2. Note your current operating system version. In the same About screen, you’ll see the iOS, iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, or tvOS version number (e.g., 17.5.1). Write this down.
3. Open Apple’s security updates page. In a web browser, go to support.apple.com/en-us/100100 (Apple’s “Apple security releasesâ€� page). This page lists all recent security updates and which devices they apply to.
4. Find the latest security update for your device type. Scroll through the list to find the most recent entry for your OS (e.g., iOS 17.x, macOS Sonoma 14.x). Click on it to see the full details, including the list of affected devices.
5. Check if your device is listed. In the update’s details, look for your exact model name. If it appears, your device is still supported and should receive that security fix. If not, your device may have been dropped from support.
6. Cross-reference with Apple’s vintage/obsolete list. Visit support.apple.com/en-us/100100 (the same page) and look for a link to “Vintage and obsolete productsâ€� or go directly to support.apple.com/en-us/102772. This page lists devices that Apple no longer services. If your device is listed as obsolete, it will no longer receive security updates.
7. Check if your installed version is still receiving patches. Sometimes a device is still supported, but only for the latest major OS. For example, an iPhone 6s can run iOS 15, but not iOS 16 or 17. Apple occasionally releases security updates for older OS versions, but only for a limited time. Check the security updates page for any updates to your specific OS version (e.g., iOS 15.8.x). If none appear for several months, your OS version may no longer be patched.
8. Verify via Software Update. On your device, go to Settings > General  Software Update (iPhone/iPad) or System Settings > General > Software Update (Mac). If an update is available, install it. If you see “Your software is up to dateâ€� and your device is not on the latest major version, it may still receive security fixes, but you should confirm using the steps above.

Common Mistakes

• Confusing model number with OS version. The model number (e.g., A2487) is not the same as the iOS version. You need both to check compatibility.
• Assuming all devices with the same name are supported. For example, the original iPhone SE (2016) and the second-generation iPhone SE (2020) are very different in terms of support. Always check the exact model.
• Relying only on the Software Update screen. If your device is old, it may not show the latest available update because Apple has stopped offering it to your device. The security updates page is more accurate.
• Ignoring the “vintageâ€� status. A device can be “vintageâ€� (still supported for a while) or “obsoleteâ€� (no support). Check the official list, not just the security page.

Tips

• Bookmark Apple’s security updates page. Check it monthly if you’re concerned about security.
• Enable automatic updates. On iPhone/iPad: Settings > General > Software Update > Automatic Updates. On Mac: System Settings > General > Software Update > Automatic Updates. This ensures you get patches as soon as they’re released.
• Consider the age of your device. Apple typically supports devices for about 5-7 years after release. If your device is older than that, it’s likely nearing the end of support.
• If your device is no longer supported, consider upgrading. Using an unsupported device on the internet is risky because vulnerabilities won’t be fixed.

Troubleshooting

• Can’t find your device on the security updates page? Try searching the page for your model name (Ctrl+F or Cmd+F). If it’s not there, your device may be too old or the update may not apply to your OS version.
• Software Update says “Unable to Check for Updateâ€�? Ensure you have a stable internet connection, then restart your device and try again. If it still fails, check Apple’s system status page for any outages.
• You see an update but it won’t install? Make sure your device has enough storage space and is plugged in (for iPhone/iPad). If it still fails, try updating via a computer with Finder (or iTunes on older macOS/Windows).
• Your device is listed as obsolete but still works? That’s expected. It means Apple will no longer provide software updates or hardware service. You can continue to use it, but be aware of the security risks.
• Not sure if a specific security update applies to you? Look at the “Impactâ€� section of the update. If it mentions your device’s OS version, it applies. If not, you may not need it.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does Apple support a device with security updates?

Typically 5-7 years from the device’s release, but it varies. For example, the iPhone 6s (2015) received iOS 15 updates until 2023, about 7 years. Check Apple’s list for your specific model.

Is it safe to use an Apple device that no longer gets security updates?

No. Without security patches, known vulnerabilities remain unfixed, making your device more susceptible to malware and hacking. It’s strongly recommended to upgrade to a supported device.

Can I still get security updates if I don’t update to the latest major OS?

Sometimes. Apple occasionally releases security updates for the previous major OS version (e.g., iOS 15.8.x for devices that can’t run iOS 16). However, this is not guaranteed and only lasts for a limited time.

How do I know if my Mac is too old for the latest macOS?

Check Apple’s macOS compatibility list. Generally, Macs older than about 2017 may not support the latest macOS. You can also see which macOS version is the latest for your Mac in System Settings > General > Software Update.

Does Apple provide security updates for Apple Watch?

Yes, watchOS receives security updates, but only for Apple Watch models that support the latest watchOS. Older models may be left behind. Check the security updates page for watchOS.

What should I do if my device is no longer supported?

Consider upgrading to a newer model. If that’s not possible, limit your use of sensitive apps (banking, email) and avoid clicking suspicious links. You can also use a firewall or VPN for extra protection, but it’s not a substitute for updates.

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