Apple has begun informing users of older software that there’s an important reason to update. iCloud backups will soon cease functioning—and may even be erased—on devices using iOS 8 or earlier.
Devices with outdated software must update or find alternative backup solutions
Apple has released a new support document regarding this upcoming change:
Beginning December 18, 2024, backups will require iOS 9 or higher. This aligns with our established minimum software requirements. Until this date, you can continue using the service normally. After this date, your backup data will be deleted unless you upgrade to iOS 9 or above.
Therefore, if your device is operating on iOS 8 or older, it will no longer be able to create iCloud backups starting mid-December, and any existing backups will be removed.
The solution? Upgrade to iOS 9 or a newer version.
For users who cannot or prefer not to update their devices, there is an alternative. As indicated by Apple, manual backups can be performed using a Mac or PC.
You can connect your iPhone to a Mac with macOS Catalina or later to backup the device using Finder.
If you have a PC or an earlier version of macOS, you can back up using the Apple Devices or iTunes software.
With iOS 8 being a decade old, this announcement may not come as a surprise. However, if you have an aging iPhone or iPad still running on older software, it may be time to consider an upgrade.
Will this change affect you or someone you know? Share your thoughts in the comments.
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