Apple has released a series of updates in recent days that seem unusual at first glance. In addition to current operating system versions, very old systems have also been given another update. These include iOS 12, macOS 11 Big Sur, macOS 10.15 Catalina, and several watchOS versions dating back to watchOS 6. The updates don't aim to introduce new features, but rather to ensure the basic usability of older devices for years to come.
At the heart of these updates is a technical detail that remains invisible to many users for a long time: expiring certificates. Without Apple's intervention, numerous devices would have been unable to connect to key services from 2027 onward. The updates now released prevent precisely this scenario, but they don't change the fact that the affected operating systems will still be considered outdated.
Updates for iOS 12 and iPadOS 12
Last week, Apple released iOS 26.2.1, iPadOS 26.2.1, and macOS 26.2.1. Simultaneously, another update for iOS 12 and iPadOS 12 surprisingly followed. Versions iOS 12.5.8 and iPadOS 12.5.8 ensure the continued functionality of important services such as iMessage, FaceTime, and device activation.
This is remarkable because iOS 12 was released around seven and a half years ago and is no longer officially supported. The update was prompted by certificates that would have expired in January 2027 without renewal. After that, neither registration nor activation of the devices would have been possible. Without the update, many older iPhones and iPads would effectively have had a fixed end date.
macOS 11.7.11 for Big Sur
Apple has now released a similar update for older Macs. macOS 11.7.11 for Big Sur also renews the affected certificates. Without this update, Macs running this operating system would no longer have been able to activate from 2027 onwards, and iMessage and FaceTime would no longer have been usable.
In terms of content, macOS 11.7.11 is identical to the update for iOS 12.5.8. It brings no new features and does not close any known security vulnerabilities, but solely ensures that core system services continue to function.
watchOS updates back to watchOS 6
Apple is also addressing the Apple Watch issue. Updates for watchOS 10.6.2, watchOS 9.6.4, and even watchOS 6.3.1 have been released. This covers several generations of older watches.
As with iOS and macOS, this update also concerns the renewal of expiring certificates. Without these updates, affected Apple Watch models would have experienced long-term problems using basic functions. These versions do not include any new features or security improvements.
Security Update 2026-001 for macOS Catalina
Additionally, security update 2026-001 was released for macOS 10.15 Catalina. This update is particularly noteworthy because Apple has not released any security updates for Catalina for many years. The specific security vulnerability addressed is unknown.
The mere fact that Apple is releasing another security update for macOS 10.15 suggests that this is likely a serious vulnerability. The company has not provided any further details.
iOS 16.7.14 for iPhone X and iPhone 8
In addition to very old systems, Apple has also updated iOS 16 again. iOS 16.7.14 fixes a problem affecting emergency calls in Australia. Specifically, the iPhone X and iPhone 8 were affected.
Just a week earlier, Apple had released iOS 16.7.13, which caused problems in precisely this area. Version 16.7.14 corrects this bug and restores the reliable functionality of the emergency call feature.
No comprehensive security fixes for old systems
Despite the numerous updates, one important point remains: Apple is not closing any known and actively exploited security vulnerabilities in older operating system versions with these updates. macOS 11, as well as watchOS 6, 9, and 10, are still considered insecure with regard to current threats.
The updates are solely intended to keep basic functions and services operational. Therefore, these systems should only be used with caution in daily use.
Apple extends the technical usability of older devices
Apple's latest updates ensure that older devices don't become unusable. By renewing important certificates, device activation and the use of core services remain possible even beyond 2027. At the same time, it's clear that these measures don't replace genuine support. Anyone who values security will still need to use the latest operating system versions and therefore newer devices. The best products for you: Our Amazon storefront offers a wide selection of accessories, including those for HomeKit. (Image: Shutterstock / Neirfy)
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