Apple has rolled out a wave of urgent software updates… and this time, the warning signs are hard to ignore.
From the newest iPhones to models released more than a decade ago, the company says users should update now to avoid serious issues, including problems with emergency calls and core services.
On Monday, Apple released multiple updates across different versions of iOS, covering devices as old as the iPhone 5s from 2013 and as new as the latest models. According to reports, the updates affect an estimated over 2 billion iPhones worldwide, making this one of Apple’s broadest software pushes in years.
For newer devices, Apple released iOS 26.2.1, while older phones received parallel updates such as iOS 18.7.4, iOS 16.7.13, iOS 15.8.6, and iOS 12.5.8, depending on the model.
Apple has kept most details brief, often stating that the releases include important fixes and are recommended for all users.
One update stands out for owners of Apple’s oldest supported devices. iOS 12.5.8, released for iPhone 5s, iPhone 6, and iPhone 6 Plus, does not add new features but prevents something far more disruptive.
Apple explained the reason in a support document. “This update extends the certificate required by features such as iMessage, FaceTime, and device activation to continue working after January 2027,” Apple said on its support site.
Without this update, key services on those older iPhones would eventually stop working altogether.
Emergency call failures sparked urgency
The updates follow reports of a serious issue that affected emergency calls, particularly in Australia. Some older iPhones were unable to connect to emergency services after a network failure, raising alarms for Apple and regulators alike.
Apple said users should install the updates to ensure emergency calls work properly, especially on older hardware. Apple warned that rare network issues could still occur while carriers continue to improve their systems.
In those cases, the company explained that “some older mobile phones might still encounter the same issue reaching emergency services through an alternate available network,” according to its updated support documentation.
While Apple has not disclosed security vulnerabilities in detail, the company has repeatedly emphasized the importance of installing these updates as soon as possible.
Emergency calls aren’t like regular phone calls; they need to work every single time. Apple emphasized that while network issues causing call failures are rare, the consequences can be life-threatening.
Apple Watch also gets attention
Apple didn’t stop with iPhones. The company also pushed watchOS 26.2.1 to address related issues on cellular Apple Watch models, including Apple Watch Series 6 and later.
To update, head to Settings > General > Software Update on your iPhone or iPad. For Apple Watch, open the Watch app on your paired iPhone and navigate to General > Software Update.
If your Watch has watchOS 6 or later, Apple says, “you can install updates without your iPhone as follows.” Go to the Settings app on your Apple Watch > General > Software Update.
Also read: iOS and iPadOS flaws can leave millions of devices at risk of silent takeover.
