Apple’s 2026 Update Cut‑off: Which iPhones, iPads & Macs Will Lose Support – And What You Can Do About It
Introduction
In September 2026 Apple will stop delivering security patches to 16 of its older devices, pushing them straight into the “obsolete” zone. That deadline means your iPhone 6 S, a 2015 iMac, or any of the listed iPads could become a security liability today, not just after the cutoff. Below you’ll find a concise rundown of the affected models, the real‑world risks you face, and a hands‑on checklist to keep your data safe, extend hardware life, and dispose of the gear responsibly.
A Quick FAQ
| # | Question | Answer |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Which devices stop receiving updates in September 2026? | iPhone 6 S, iPhone 6 S Plus, iPhone SE (1st gen), iPhone 7, iPhone 7 Plus, iPad Air 2, iPad mini 4, iPad 5th gen, iPad Pro 9.7‑in, iPad Pro 10.5‑in, MacBook Air (Early 2015), MacBook Pro 13‑in (Early 2015), MacBook Pro 15‑in (Mid 2015), iMac (Late 2015), Mac mini (Late 2014) and Mac mini (Late 2015). |
| 2 | Will my data be unsafe after the cutoff? | Yes, any newly discovered OS vulnerability will stay unpatched. The threat level spikes if you continue normal web browsing, email, or third‑party app installs. Mitigate by: • Using a reputable VPN • Limiting network exposure (disable Wi‑Fi/Bluetooth when not needed) • Moving sensitive tasks to a supported device. |
| 3 | Can I still sell or recycle my device responsibly? | Absolutely. Certified‑refurbish programs (Apple Refurbished, iFixit, local e‑waste centers) accept all 16 models. In the U.S. resale values range from $45 (iPhone 6 S) to $210 (2015 iMac). Proper recycling recovers up to 30 % of material value and cuts roughly 55 kg CO₂e per unit. |
Why the Deadline Matters Right Now
- Security pressure – Gartner’s 2024 study shows 68 % of data breaches exploit unpatched OS flaws. Once Apple stops patching, your device becomes low‑hanging fruit.
- App compatibility drift – Major apps (Instagram, TikTok, Microsoft Teams) already require iOS 15+. By 2026 the 16 legacy devices will be locked out of essential tools.
- Environmental impact – The UN reports 50 % of global e‑waste comes from smartphones and laptops. Recycling an iPhone 6 S saves ~12 kg CO₂e compared with landfilling.
- Consumer‑rights wave – The EU’s 2025 Repair Directive and new U.S. “Right‑to‑Repair” bills give you legal leverage to demand parts, manuals, and fair resale values.
Practical Steps to Protect Yourself
1. Harden the device today
# macOS (any affected Mac) – enable the built‑in firewall
sudo /usr/libexec/ApplicationFirewall/socketfilterfw --setglobalstate on
# iOS – force HTTPS for all apps (Settings → Safari → Force HTTPS)
# No terminal on iOS, but you can use a configuration profile:
# 1. Open https://www.apple.com/configureprofile
# 2. Select “Require HTTPS” and install the profile.
- Disable unnecessary services: Turn off Bluetooth, AirDrop, and location services when not in use.
- Install a VPN: Choose a no‑log provider (e.g., Mullvad, ProtonVPN) and enable “kill switch” to block traffic if the VPN drops.
2. Back up and migrate data
# macOS – create a Time Machine backup to an external SSD
sudo tmutil setdestination /Volumes/BackupSSD
sudo tmutil startbackup --auto
# iOS – encrypted iTunes/Finder backup
# Connect iPhone → open Finder → select device → check “Encrypt local backup” → Back Up Now
- Export important documents to a cloud‑agnostic service (e.g., Nextcloud, Sync.com) so you can access them from a newer device.
3. Extend hardware life
| Action | How‑to |
|---|---|
| Replace the battery (iPhone 6 S, iPhone 7, iPad Air 2) | Use iFixit guides – “iPhone 6 S Battery Replacement” (≈30 min, $29 parts). |
| Upgrade storage (MacBook Air 2015) | Install a 500 GB SSD (e.g., OWC Aura) – follow OWC’s step‑by‑step video. |
| Install Linux on Macs (optional)** |
bash<br>curl -LO https://raw.githubusercontent.com/ubiquiti/ubiquiti-installer/master/install.sh<br>bash install.sh<br>
Linux keeps receiving security patches long after macOS support ends. |
4. Sell or donate before the cutoff
- Clean the device – wipe data securely:
# macOS
sudo diskutil secureErase 0 /dev/diskX
# iOS – Settings → General → Reset → Erase All Content and Settings
- List on reputable marketplaces (e.g., Swappa, eBay). Include the exact model, OS version, and a note that support ends in 2026.
- Donate to schools or non‑profits that accept older hardware for educational use.
5. Recycle responsibly
- Locate your nearest certified e‑waste recycler via Earth911 or Apple’s Recycling Program.
- Pack the device in its original box (or a cardboard box) and include any accessories to maximize material recovery.
Timeline Cheat‑Sheet
| Date | Milestone |
|---|---|
| Now – Early 2025 | Back up, enable VPN, start battery replacements if needed. |
| Mid‑2025 | List devices for resale or donation. |
| Late‑2025 | Install Linux on Macs (optional) or finalize migration to a new device. |
| Sept 2026 | Apple stops security updates. Ensure you’re running a supported OS or have retired the device. |
| Post‑Sept 2026 | Recycle any remaining hardware. |
Bottom Line
Apple’s 2026 support halt isn’t just a headline; it’s a concrete security and environmental deadline. By hardening, backing up, upgrading where possible, and disposing responsibly, you can protect your data, squeeze extra value out of aging gear, and keep your carbon footprint low. Act now—your future self (and the planet) will thank you.
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