Rumors have a way of spreading like wildfire, especially when it comes to Apple and its legion of devoted iPhone users. Over the past week, a wave of misinformation has swept across social media, with some claiming that Apple is about to disable all older iPhones that can’t run the newest iOS 26. The panic was palpable: users worried their trusty devices would suddenly become useless. But according to PhoneIslam and multiple technology news outlets, these rumors are simply not true. Apple isn’t flipping a switch to brick millions of devices overnight, but the company’s latest moves do signal a major shift in how it handles security updates—and that has real consequences for users, whether they’re running the latest iPhone 17 or an older model.
Let’s set the record straight. As of December 24, 2025, Apple has not abandoned older iPhones, nor is it disabling devices that can’t support iOS 26. Instead, the company has linked critical security updates exclusively to iOS 26, meaning that while older devices will continue to function, they won’t receive the latest security patches. That’s a big difference from cutting off support altogether, but it still leaves users with a tricky decision: stick with an older system and risk exposure to new cyber threats, or upgrade to iOS 26 and get the best protection Apple can offer.
So, what’s driving this change? Apple has long touted security and privacy as its top priorities. In recent weeks, the company has discovered dangerous spyware actively targeting some iPhone users, with the potential for these attacks to spread if left unaddressed. Apple has officially confirmed that these are not just theoretical threats—there are real, active attacks happening right now. As PhoneIslam notes, "Apple has officially confirmed that there are active attacks. Some target specific groups, but can expand. Therefore, she chose a radical and quick solution instead of slow, partial solutions."
To counter these threats, Apple has packed iOS 26 with a host of new security layers. The update brings stronger protection against spyware, prevents digital fingerprint tracking in Safari, adds safeguards against cable and wired communication attacks, and introduces fraud detection systems for calls and messages. These aren’t just incremental tweaks; they represent fundamental changes to the system’s architecture. According to experts cited by PhoneIslam, "These are not simple additions, but radical changes that cannot be 'patched' onto iOS 18. Because the attacks are real and happening now (not a theoretical warning)."
For users, this means that sticking with an older version of iOS is riskier than ever. Security experts have revealed that over half of all mobile devices worldwide run on outdated operating systems, lacking the latest security features and making them easy targets for hackers. Apple’s new approach is clear: to stay protected, users need to stay as close as possible to the latest version of iOS.
This shift is already being felt by iPhone owners. As reported by multiple sources including PhoneIslam, if you’re running iOS 18.7.2 on an iPhone 11 or newer, you’ll no longer see the option to update to iOS 18.7.3. Instead, your device will push you directly to iOS 26.2. While Apple still offers iOS 18.7.3 to older devices that can’t support iOS 26, newer models are now steered toward the latest system update as the only way to receive security fixes. This has frustrated some users who preferred to stick with the familiar look and feel of iOS 18, or who worried about bugs and stability in the new version. As community posts reveal, "A lot of users want to stay on iOS 18 for a while, either because they dislike iOS 26’s look, they worry about bugs, or they want to wait for stability. Others say iOS 26 runs fine for them."
For those weighing their options, the advice is straightforward: if you prioritize security, install iOS 26.2. If you’re determined to stay on iOS 18, you can remain on iOS 18.7.2, but you’ll miss out on the latest security patches. Before making any major update, users should back up their iPhones to iCloud or a computer, ensure there’s enough free storage, and keep the device plugged into power during installation.
Beyond security, iOS 26 introduces several new features that are winning praise from users and reviewers alike. The iPhone 17 lineup, released in 2025, is already being called one of Apple’s best, thanks to its powerful cameras and improved displays. But it’s the software that really shines. iOS 26 offers an intuitive and simple navigation experience, encouraging users to explore what’s possible with their devices. According to a recent review, "iOS 26 offers an intuitive and simple navigation experience that encourages users to explore new features."
One standout addition is the revamped Portrait Mode, part of the new "Liquid Glass" redesign. This feature makes the camera interface feel more immersive and fluid, and it’s already a hit with photographers and casual users alike. To access Portrait Mode, users need to swipe right on the mode selector in the Camera app, as the default view highlights only 'Photo' and 'Video.' For those with iPhone 16 or newer, the Camera Control button allows direct entry into Portrait Mode without even touching the screen. The real magic, though, lies in the 3D Spatial Scenes capability, which lets users turn ordinary portraits into dynamic 3D photos, complete with parallax effects and detailed focus. As the guide puts it, "Portrait Mode blurs the background to focus on the subject, enhancing photo quality."
Looking ahead, Apple is already preparing the next update—iOS 26.3—expected to arrive at the end of January 2026. This release will bring even more security improvements and new features to further enhance the iOS experience. For those eager to try it out early, Apple’s Public Beta program is open to interested users.
For users who haven’t updated yet, the message from Apple and security experts is clear: don’t wait. Delaying operating system updates exposes your phone to risks from sophisticated cyberattacks and malware. The process to update is simple: open Settings, tap General, then Software Update, and follow the on-screen instructions. Make sure your device is charged or plugged in, and let the update run its course. As PhoneIslam reassures, "Don’t worry if you don’t use technology much; updating is as easy as pressing a button, and Apple makes the process simple for users."
Apple’s new approach to updates may frustrate some longtime users who valued the ability to stay on older systems, but the company’s rationale is hard to argue with in an age of escalating cyber threats. For now, the safest path is clear: keep your device up to date, and enjoy the new features and protections that come with iOS 26. After all, in the fast-moving world of technology, standing still is rarely the best option.
