Three of the most iconic iPhones are set to become obsolete this month

iPhones have a long history of innovation, but this month, the iPhone XR, iPhone XS, and iPhone XS Max will officially reach the end of their support.

Apple’s upcoming iOS 26 update means these once-iconic models will no longer receive new features or security patches.

While they won’t suddenly stop working, their days as fully supported devices are now behind them.

For millions of users still holding onto these classics, the question is whether to upgrade or find a new use for their aging phones.

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These iPhones were hugely popular when first released

According to reports, the upcoming iOS 26 update will end support for the iPhone XR, iPhone XS, and iPhone XS Max.

These models were the last in Apple’s lineup still eligible for last year’s iOS 18 update, but they’ll soon join the list of devices considered ‘unsupported.’

Once this happens, Apple will no longer deliver software updates or security patches, leaving them more vulnerable to flaws and bugs.

While the devices themselves may remain functional, the lack of ongoing support is a clear signal to upgrade.

The iPhone X family was hugely popular when it first launched.

It represented a bold design shift for Apple, ditching the thick bezels and embracing a nearly all-screen look, which is a design philosophy still shaping the iPhone lineup today.

For many fans, these devices were more than just phones; they were a leap into the future of Apple’s design and technology.

With Apple recently announcing the iPhone 17, it’s clear how far the brand has come since the X era.

You can turn your old iPhone into a GPS unit

So what should you do if you own one of these devices?

Continuing to use them is still possible, but it’s important to recognize the risks.

Security vulnerabilities are the biggest concern, as unsupported devices won’t receive the patches needed to protect against new threats.

If you’ve noticed your phone slowing down or struggling with demanding apps, upgrading might be the smartest move.

Of course, that doesn’t mean the iPhone XR, iPhone XS, and iPhone XS Max models need to be tossed aside, though.

Apple offers a recycling program, ensuring old devices are disposed of safely, but creative users have found plenty of secondary uses.

Many turn their old iPhones into dedicated media players, GPS units, or even webcams.

Of course, you can always keep your older iPhone, and channel your funds into buying Apple shares instead, which is historically a pretty good move.

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