Apple Updates iCloud Requirements: What iPhone Users Need to Know

Apple has introduced new system requirements for accessing its iCloud services, which could lead some iPhone users to pay for services they can no longer access. The updated policy affects devices running older iOS versions, with a deadline set for December 18. This change will render devices using iOS 8 or earlier incompatible with iCloud backups. After this date, existing backups on these devices will be deleted, and users will be unable to create new ones.

To access any iCloud service, iPhones must now run iOS 10 or later on an iPhone 5 or newer. Users of iCloud+, Apple’s premium cloud subscription service, face even stricter requirements. iCloud+ necessitates iOS 15 or newer, and older devices incapable of running iOS 15 may result in users paying up to £54.99/$59.99 monthly for features they cannot use. These features include iCloud Private Relay, Hide My Email, Custom Email Domain, and HomeKit Secure Video support.

Devices compatible with iOS 15 include:

• iPhone 13 series
• iPhone 12 series
• iPhone 11 series
• iPhone X, XR, XS, XS Max
• iPhone 8, 8 Plus
• iPhone 7, 7 Plus
• iPhone 6s, 6s Plus
• iPhone SE (1st and 2nd generation)
• iPod touch (7th generation)

Apple advises users to verify their device’s iOS version by navigating to Settings > General > Software Update. Beyond iPhones, these updates also affect iPads, iPod touch devices, and Macs. It is essential for users to ensure their devices meet the required software versions to continue accessing iCloud services.

Apple has highlighted several features and tips to enhance the iPhone user experience:

1. Typing Cursor: Hold the space bar to turn the keyboard into a trackpad for easier navigation.
2. Close All Safari Tabs: Hold the overlapped squares in the bottom-right corner of Safari and select “Close All Tabs.”
3. Delete Photos in Bulk: Drag your finger diagonally across photos to select multiple images and delete them.
4. Currency Conversion: Swipe down from the Home screen and type a currency amount to see its local conversion.
5. Battery Health Check: Go to Settings > Battery > Battery Health to check the maximum capacity. Batteries below 80% capacity may need replacement.
6. Quick App Organization: Long-press an app, then tap additional apps to stack and move them together.

These changes underline the importance of keeping devices updated to leverage Apple’s latest services and features. Users are urged to review their devices’ compatibility promptly to avoid disruptions in iCloud access.