Have an old iPhone? You should really download this security update.

There's nothing wrong with having an old phone. Just remember to update it.
 By 
Jack Morse
 on 
Have an old iPhone? You should really download this security update.
Old and classy. Credit: Patricia Marroquin / getty

Non-early adopters take note: Your iPhone needs a tune-up. Like, now.

That's according to Apple, which on Monday released a security update specifically targeted to older devices. According to the company, iOS 12.5.4 is available for those environmentally conscious consumers still holding onto their iPhone 5s, iPhone 6, iPhone 6 Plus, iPad Air, iPad mini 2, iPad mini 3, or 6th generation iPod touch.

The update fixes three vulnerabilities that allowed for potential arbitrary code execution (that's not good), two of which Apple says "may have been actively exploited." In other words, criminals or oppressive governments may have been exploiting these vulnerabilities on real people's phones.


You May Also Like

Mashable Image
An iPad Mini 3, in all it's glory. Credit: CHRISTINA ASCANI / mashable

Thankfully, the solution is easy enough. If you have one of the affected devices, simply go to Settings > General > Software Update, and download and install the update.

After that, continue using your aging device with confidence. Because there's nothing wrong with holding onto something great — as long as you treat it with the care it requires.

Mashable Image
Jack Morse

Professionally paranoid. Covering privacy, security, and all things cryptocurrency and blockchain from San Francisco.

Mashable Potato

Recommended For You
iOS 26.4 available now: All updates, security improvements to know
The Apple logo appears on a mobile phone screen in this photo illustration


Update now: Apple iOS 26.2.1 arrives with support for AirTags 2
screenshot of software update screen in iphone settings menu

Comparing iPhone 17e vs. iPhone 17: Is the new $599 phone good enough?
iphone 17 and 17e on blue background

Android 17 Beta 1 arrives for Pixel: How to download it
Four Google Pixel 10 Pro phones lined up in a row

Trending on Mashable
NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for April 3, 2026
Connections game on a smartphone

Wordle today: Answer, hints for April 3, 2026
Wordle game on a smartphone

Google launches Gemma 4, a new open-source model: How to try it
Google Gemma


NYT Strands hints, answers for April 3, 2026
A game being played on a smartphone.
The biggest stories of the day delivered to your inbox.
These newsletters may contain advertising, deals, or affiliate links. By clicking Subscribe, you confirm you are 16+ and agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Thanks for signing up. See you at your inbox!