iCloud will no longer be supported on certain iPhones and iPads. View the list.

Apple will stop supporting iCloud for iOS 8 or earlier versions starting on December 18, 2024. This will prevent users from making cloud backups and will result in the deletion of existing backups. Additionally, older iPhone models will no longer be able to use WhatsApp.

What you should be aware of:

• iCloud will cease to be compatible with iOS 8 and older devices.
• Cloud backups that currently exist will be removed.
• Backups will necessitate alternative methods like utilizing iTunes or Finder.

Why is this occurring?

Apple explained that the decision was made to update its technologies, as the backup system in iOS 8 has been replaced by CloudKit in iOS 9, rendering the infrastructure for older versions unnecessary.

The company aims to adhere to contemporary norms for increased safety and efficiency, but this choice affects users of older devices like the iPhone 4, which cannot run iOS 9.

The update includes these devices:

• iPhone 4 is the final model that cannot support iOS 9 and is restricted to iOS 7.1.2.
• First edition of the iPad from 2010: incapable of receiving updates past iOS 5.1.1.
• iPad 2 (2011) and original iPad mini (2012) can run iOS 9, but with reduced performance capabilities.
• Fourth-generation iPod touch from 2010 can only support up to iOS 6.1.6.

What should be done?

If you are still using a device with iOS 8, explore the choices to prevent data loss.

1. Ensure that your device is compatible with iOS 9 or later before updating the operating system to maintain iCloud backup functionality, although be mindful of potential performance impacts on older devices.
2. Make sure to create manual backups by using iTunes or Finder to store your data on a computer.
3. If your device cannot run the newest iOS versions, it might be a good idea to get a newer model.

Make sure your device is compatible with iOS 9 or newer before updating the operating system to maintain iCloud backup functionality. Keep in mind that updating may impact the performance of older devices.

Make manual backups by utilizing iTunes or Finder to store your data on a computer.

If your device cannot run the newest iOS versions, it might be a good idea to buy a newer model.