Starting December 18, 2024, Apple will increase its minimum requirements for iCloud backups. From this point on, only iPhones running at least iOS 9 can use the backup function. Apple gives this in a new oneSupport Documentknown.
Anyone who uses an iPhone with iOS 8 or older will no longer have the option of creating backups via iCloud from this point onwards. In addition, existing backups can no longer be accessed.
Apple goes one step further and even deletes the backup data that has already been created if the operating system has not been updated to iOS 9 or newer by the deadline.
These models are affected
The iPhone 4 and older models are specifically affected by the change, as there is simply no update to iOS 9 for them.
So do you still use that?iPhone, (1. Generation), iPhone 3G, iPhone 3GS oder iPhone 4, you have no chance of continuing to use iCloud's backup function.
Aside from the iPhone, support for iCloud backups also ends for other Apple devices. In particular, these are the firstiPad from 2010as well as theFirst through fourth generation iPod Touch models.
Update newer devices by December
If you use an iPhone 4S, iPad 2 or iPod Touch (5th generation) or newer, you should update to a newer operating system as soon as possible.
You can check whether an update is available to you in the device settings"Generally"and then»Software update«.
Alternatively, you can connect your device to the Mac's Windows PC with a cable and check for updates in iTunes.
- If you connect your iPhone, a small device symbol appears in iTunes.
- Click on this and then choose»Check for update«.
Back up older devices locally
Don't you have a way to update your iPhone to iOS 9? Then it is recommended to create a local backup via iTunes. This can be saved on the computer or on an external hard drive.
To create a local backup, open iTunes on your PC or Mac (macOS Mojave and older) and connect the iPhone using a cable. Then click on the small device symbol that appears. Now you can use the button»Create backup now« create a device backup.
It is advisable to keep the hook on»Encrypt local backup« to put. This also secures passwords, health data, HomeKit and other sensitive data. This is not the case with an unencrypted backup.
If you use macOS Catalina or a newer operating system, you create the backup using the Finder. To do this, select your iPhone in the sidebar and click"Generally"and then up“Back up all your iPhone data to this Mac”.
If you would like to restore your iPhone from the backup, you can also do this from iTunes. There is a function for this under the backup option»Restore backup«.
Buy a new iPhone
If you use an iPhone 4 or older, you could of course also consider switching to a newer model. Look out for good offers, especially in the next few weeks as part of Black Friday.
Switching devices doesn't just have advantages for iCloud backup. Current models are significantly more powerful, offer, for example, a better camera and, especially in comparison to very old devices, numerous new functions.
You also have the option of installing all apps from the App Store. Here, too, there are often problems with devices running old iOS. Many applications have a minimum requirement for the operating system.
Last but not least, current iPhones receive regular updates. Among other things, they close security gaps and protect you more effectively from cyber criminals or third-party access than is the case with old devices without update support.
Are you still using an iPhone 4 or an older model that is affected by the change? How do you deal with it? Please let us know your opinion in the comments.
