The good news is an affordable iPhone is rumored to be released soon. Click here to learn all about what we expect from the discount iPhone model. The bad news is if you’re still using an older model, it could break in just a couple of days. Apple is warning customers their devices need to be updated, and soon.
Is your Apple device about to self destruct?
Do you remember hearing about the GPS time rollover issue that began in April this year? It was hyped as the Y2K of GPS. You can read all about it here if you need a reminder. It appeared we were in the clear since the date of the GPS issue has come and gone, but apparently, we’re not. Apple is warning its customers the GPS problem is back and could break your devices if you don’t update your iOS before November 3. Fortunately, not all Apple gadgets are at risk. Impacted iPhone and iPad models were introduced in 2012 and earlier. That means iPhone 5 models and earlier, as well as the iPad (4th generation) and earlier are the ones in danger. Without the update, your devices will not be able to maintain an accurate GPS location. This may sound like a small issue, but if the GPS location is inaccurate, it could lead to incorrect dates and times on your gadget, which would impact major functions that rely on them, like the ability to sync with iCloud. Needless to say, it’s a big deal. You might also like: Apple may release new AirPods this month — with a much-needed feature Apple stated: “If you don’t update to the newest version of iOS available for your device before November 3, some models might not be able to maintain an accurate GPS position. And functions that rely on the correct date and time — such as syncing with iCloud and fetching email — might not work. In addition, devices that aren’t updated before November 3, 2019, might not be able to receive over-the-air software updates. As a result, the only way to update the device will be to restore iTunes or Finder via a tethered connection.”
Check to see which iOS version your device is running
The iOS you need depends on which device you have. For iPhone 5 and iPad (4th generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular, you need iOS 10.3.4. For iPhone 4s, iPad mini (1st generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular, iPad 2 Wi-Fi + Cellular (CDMA models only) and iPad (3rd generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular, you need iOS 9.3.6. This issue does not affect iPod Touch or any iPad models that have Wi-Fi only. It also doesn’t affect iOS devices newer than those listed above. To find out which iOS your device is running, follow these simple steps:
Open the Settings appTap General, then tap AboutLook for the number next to Software Version
That’s it. If your device isn’t running the suggested iOS versions, you need to update it ASAP. Devices that are not updated before 12:00 a.m. UTC on November 3, 2019, could be broken. Here are the steps to update your iOS:
Open the Settings app on your device and scroll down to General.Next, tap Software Update and you’ll be taken to the landing page for the newer iOS.Here, you can select Download and Install, which will begin the process of loading your new operating system.
While you’re on this landing page, make sure to check Automatic Updates, which will install critical security patches and bug fixes overnight while you sleep. This will help your device stay a step ahead of hackers. Do you use an iPhone, iPad, Mac or Apple Watch? Get the most out of your favorite Apple tech with Kim’s weekly Apple Updates newsletter. It’s packed with news, tips and tricks, and the coolest new apps.
