The terminal iteration of the operating system compatible with a specific Apple smartphone, originally released in 2013, provided users with access to security updates, bug fixes, and certain features available at the time of its final software distribution. This represented the endpoint of software support for the device, encompassing the last authorized version of the mobile operating system it could utilize.
Maintaining the device with the final software version ensured users received the most up-to-date protection against vulnerabilities that were known at the time. Historically, installing software updates provided performance enhancements and access to new features. This extended the usability and longevity of the hardware, even after newer models were introduced to the market. However, eventually the device’s hardware limitations precluded future support and access to the most current software innovations.