Short answer
Apple does not publish a fixed support period, but recent iPhones have typically received major iOS updates for around six or seven years. iPhone 13 and newer all run iOS 27, so each is likely supported for several more years.
Software support decides how long a used iPhone stays safe and useful.
What we know
- iOS 27 supports iPhone 11 and later.
- iPhone 13 has received every major iOS release since launch.
- Apple does not promise a number of years.
- Security updates continue for a time after major updates end.
Rough outlook
| Series | Outlook |
|---|---|
| iPhone 13 | Likely a couple more major updates; see our iPhone 13 Pro guide |
| iPhone 14 | Several more years |
| iPhone 15 and 15 Pro | Several more years; Pro gets Apple Intelligence |
| iPhone 16 and 17 | Longest support |
How to decide
- Buy the newest generation you can afford.
- Check battery health, because hardware wear often ends use before software does.
- Prefer models with Apple Intelligence if you want newer features.
Frequently asked questions
Will iPhone 13 get iOS 28?
Apple has not confirmed it. See our update guide.
What happens when updates stop?
The phone still works, but app support and security gradually decline.