Apple has officially ended iCloud support for devices running iOS 10 and macOS Sierra, a move that coincides with the release of iOS 26 and macOS Tahoe. As a result, some users with older devices are now unable to access Apple’s cloud services.
According to Apple’s updated system requirements, iCloud now necessitates iOS 11 or later on iPhones and macOS High Sierra or newer on Macs. This change affects older hardware, including the iPhone 5, iPhone 5c, and fourth-generation iPad, which cannot upgrade past iOS 10. For Mac users, however, devices that supported macOS Sierra can be updated to High Sierra, ensuring continued iCloud access.
The loss of iCloud services means that affected users will no longer be able to use key features such as iCloud Drive, iCloud Photos, iMessage, iCloud Tabs, and Keychain synchronization. While upgrading to a newer device is the best solution for many, users with devices stuck on iOS 10 have no way to restore these services. For them, the only option is to purchase newer hardware.
This isn’t the first time Apple has phased out support for older software. In December 2024, the company ended iCloud Backup support for devices running iOS 8, requiring users to upgrade to iOS 9 or later to continue using the service.
The decision to drop support for older operating systems is a part of Apple’s broader strategy to streamline services and improve security. By focusing on more recent software versions, Apple can enhance performance, address vulnerabilities, and provide a better experience for users. However, this also means that older devices are quickly phased out of the ecosystem.
For most Apple users, the change will be seamless, as their devices already meet the new requirements. But for those still holding onto older devices, this move highlights Apple’s push to keep its ecosystem aligned with the latest technological advancements.