Apple’s big new iPhone software update is here. iOS 18 was released today with a stacked list of new features. But the age-old question about new software is back: Will the update slow down your iPhone? Here’s what you need to know.
The problem with OS updates on older devices
Whenever I talk to family members or friends about a new iOS update, the question comes up: “Will this slow down my phone?”
The answer, unfortunately, isn’t exactly straightforward.
Apple regularly releases software updates for its devices. Major updates, like iOS 18, arrive once a year.
Each major OS update is designed to support as many iPhone models as possible. This year, iOS 18 is compatible with a long list of models. The oldest supported devices are the 2018 iPhone XS and XR.
But here’s the problem: Older phones can’t continue to get new features without some level of performance pressure.
Some people assume that Apple is intentionally slowing down iPhones with software updates. But consider this: 2018 phones aren’t as powerful as 2024 phones, so it’s unlikely that the modern 2024 features in iOS 18 will work seamlessly on an older device.
Ideally, Apple does its best to minimize the performance impact. But there’s only so much it can do when modern software has to run on older, less powerful hardware.
Apple could choose to provide updates to its operating system only for the newest devices, but that would create a whole new problem. Everyone will argue that the company has been reluctant to offer new features to drive iPhone sales.
Make an Informed Upgrade Decision
So, will iOS 18 make your iPhone run slower? Maybe, maybe not.
If you’ve been using an iPhone for a few years, you probably won’t notice much difference. If your device is older, things get a little more serious.
It’s really your decision: do you want access to the new features in iOS 18, or do you want to make sure your iPhone runs exactly as it does today?
Sure, Apple would love to sell you a new iPhone 16. But the company does a better job than most by providing continued software and security improvements to users with older devices.
It’s even offering iOS 17.7 as a new alternative to iOS 18, with important security fixes.
Have you installed iOS 18? How has it been for you?
