Apple released iOS 26.2.1 this week, adding support for the second-generation AirTag alongside bug fixes. The update arrived Monday for compatible iPhones, according to Apple's release notes.
The company simultaneously issued updates for older iOS versions, extending support for devices dating back to 2013. iOS 12.5.8 reached iPhone 5s and iPhone 6 models, their first software update in three years.
These legacy updates aimed to extend security certificates for iMessage, FaceTime, and device activation beyond January 2027. Without them, older iPhones would lose core functionality and could become unusable after factory resets.
Apple's support timeline now exceeds its five-year commitment, with iPhone 5s receiving 13 years of updates and iPhone 6 reaching 12 years. The company also released iOS 18.7.4, iOS 16.7.13, and iOS 15.8.6 for intermediate-generation devices.
Australian telecom Telstra reported network connectivity issues affecting iPhone 8, 8 Plus, and X models running iOS 16.7.13. The problem prevented emergency calls to 000, Australia's equivalent of 911.
Apple paused all four legacy updates, iOS 12.5.8, 15.8.6, 16.7.13, and 18.7.4, while investigating the network disruption. The company advised affected device owners to delay installation until resolution.
The pulled updates contained no security patches, according to Apple's release notes showing no published CVE entries. This minimizes immediate risks during the investigation period.
iOS 26.2.1 remains available, providing AirTag 2 compatibility following the tracker's launch on January 26, 2026. The second-generation AirTags feature louder speakers, expanded range, and improved precision tracking.
Users can install iOS 26.2.1 through Settings > General > Software Update. Apple continues offering iOS 26.3 public beta 3 for those seeking more substantial feature updates.
The simultaneous release strategy highlights Apple's balancing act between supporting aging hardware and maintaining network stability across global carriers.
