Apple has released iOS 12.5.8 for a small group of older iPhones, iPads, and the iPod touch, containing an important update for devices that can’t upgrade to modern versions of iOS. Here are the details.

Today, Apple released multiple beta versions of its operating system for developers, alongside several updates for devices running stable versions of iOS and iPadOS.

Two of these releases, iOS 12.5.8 and iPadOS 12.5.8, include an important certificate extension ahead of its expiration in January 2027. From Apple’s release notes:

This update extends the certificate required by features such as iMessage, FaceTime, and device activation to continue working after January 2027.

Apple says that iOS 12.5.8 and iPadOS 12.5.8 are available for the following devices:

• iPhone 5s
• iPhone 6
• iPhone 6 Plus
• iPad Air
• iPad mini 2
• iPad mini 3
• iPod touch (6th generation)

This means that if you, or someone you know, is still rocking one of these devices, it’s important to install the update to ensure key services like iMessage and FaceTime, as well as device activation, continue working after January 2027.

And while there’s still plenty of time before these certificates expire, it may be worth updating just to shake out any bugs that may have cropped up since the last system update, released on January 23, 2023.

Are you still using any of these devices? Let us know in the comments.

• AirPods Pro 3
• Beats USB-C to USB-C Woven Short Cable
• Wireless CarPlay adapter
• Logitech MX Master 4
• Apple AirTag 4 Pack