Technology inevitably becomes outdated over time, and even the most powerful devices available today will eventually be overshadowed by future advancements.

The shift from current devices to new ones may take years, or in some cases, even decades. However, with iPhones, users know that it won’t be long before their device’s shelf life expires.

While older Apple devices are officially classified as ‘obsolete’ once the manufacturer stops supplying parts for repairs, there's a phase before that when the device no longer receives software updates.

This doesn’t make the phone useless, but without updates from Apple, it can become vulnerable to cybersecurity risks, making it a good idea to upgrade sooner rather than later.

Unfortunately, three of the most iconic iPhones will lose support by the end of this month, leaving many owners wondering what steps to take when that time arrives.

Which iPhones will no longer receive updates?

According to the Metro, the upcoming iOS 26 update will mark the end of support for the iPhone XR, iPhone XS, and iPhone XS Max. These devices were the oldest models still able to receive the most recent iOS 18 update, which was released last September. Now, after a year, they’ll officially be classified as ‘Unsupported’ and will no longer receive updates.

The iPhone X series was a beloved line in the Apple community due to its design overhaul, replacing the dated bezels with a more modern, seamless look. This design language remains prevalent in current models, and will likely continue with the iPhone 17, which is set to be revealed next week.

What should you do with unsupported iPhones?

Although there’s nothing stopping you from continuing to use your iPhone X, it’s a good idea to consider upgrading if you want access to the latest features.

iPhone X users have probably noticed their devices slowing down over time, and without new updates, the phone will become increasingly vulnerable to security flaws that would otherwise be fixed through software patches. Therefore, while it’s safe to keep using the device, it’s not recommended in the long run.

A commercial waste disposal company, Business Waste, estimates that the iPhone X units sold contain around 1,238,944 kilograms of metals, equivalent to about 103 double-decker buses. If all of these devices were discarded at once, it could create significant disposal challenges.

Apple offers a recycling service for safely disposing of old iPhones, but if you’re not ready to part with your device just yet, there are some creative ideas. One popular suggestion on social media is to repurpose your iPhone X as a dedicated media player. Many Reddit users recommend turning it into a media hub, leaving it connected to a speaker for easy access.

Alternatively, you can use it as a GPS or navigation system, saving battery life on your primary phone. Maps work the same way on any device, and you don’t even need a data plan to use them.

If you have a Mac Mini and want to enhance your online meetings, consider using your iPhone X as a webcam. Its rear camera offers superior image quality compared to most standard webcams, making it a fantastic upgrade for video calls.