Apple has issued an important security update to older model iPhones and iPads that are not able to run the latest iOS 15 operating system.
iOS 12.5.6 includes important security patches, and should be installed on any older model device that is eligible to receive the update, and that can not install iOS 15.6.1, which includes the same vulnerability fix.
The iOS 12.5.6 software update should be available for iPhone 6, iPhone 6 Plus, iPhone 5s, iPod touch 6th gen, iPad Air, iPad mini 2, and iPad mini 3.
Many people continue to use these older devices, particularly the older model iPhones, making this a welcome security update for those widely deployed devices.
How to Download & Update to iOS 12.5.6
As always, be sure to backup the iPhone to iCloud, Finder, or iTunes before installing system software updates. This allows you to restore your device if something goes wrong.
- Open the “Settings” app on iPhone, iPod touch or iPad
- Go to “General”
- Choose “Software Update”
- Select to “Download and Install” the iOS 12.5.6 update
Again, this update will only appear on older iPhone models that are not able to run anything past iOS 12, including iPhone 6, iPhone 6 Plus, iPhone 5s, iPod touch 6th gen, iPad Air, iPad mini 2, and iPad mini 3.
Users can also choose to download and install the iOS 12.5.6 update onto an eligible device by using a computer with iTunes or Finder, or by using IPSW firmware files from Apple.
iOS 12.5.6 IPSW Download Links
- Updating…
iOS 12.5.6 Security Release Notes
Release notes on the Apple website for the update are security specific, identifying the same security flaw that was patched in iOS 15.6.1, iPadOS 15.6.1, and macOS 12.5.1.
No new features or changes are otherwise expected.