November 2024 Update: Apple Ends iCloud Backup for iOS 8 and Earlier

Part 1. Why Is Apple Ending iCloud Backup Support for iOS 8

Apple is ending iCloud backup support for devices running iOS 8 and earlier, effective December 18, 2024. Here are the main reasons behind this decision:

• Alignment with Software Requirements: Apple aims to align its services with modern software standards. By requiring iOS 9 or later for iCloud backups, Apple ensures that users are utilizing more secure and efficient systems.
• Transition to CloudKit: The shift to CloudKit, introduced with iOS 9, allows for improved performance and security in managing iCloud backups. This transition necessitates discontinuing support for older iOS versions that cannot utilize this technology.
• Encouragement to Upgrade Devices: Many devices running iOS 8 are outdated. By phasing out support, Apple encourages users to upgrade to newer devices, which enhances user experience and security.
• Operational Efficiency: Maintaining support for older systems can be resource-intensive. Ending this support allows Apple to focus on optimizing its services for current technologies.
• User Experience Improvement: By pushing users to update their devices, Apple aims to provide a better overall experience with access to new features and security updates.

Related read: Official Statement

Part 2. Key Details of the iCloud Backup Change

Effective Date

The end of iCloud backup support will take effect on December 18, 2024. After this date, users will no longer be able to create new backups for devices running iOS 8 or earlier.

Affected Devices

Devices impacted by this change include all iPhones, iPads, and iPod Touch models running iOS 8 or earlier. This includes models like:

• iPhone 4S and earlier
• iPhone 5
• iPhone 5C
• iPhone 5S
• iPad 2 and earlier
• iPad with Retina Display (3rd and 4th generation)
• iPad Air
• iPad Mini and earlier
• iPod Touch (5th generation and earlier)

Backup Functionality

After December 18, users will not be able to create new iCloud backups, and existing backups stored on Apple’s servers will be deleted unless the devices are updated to iOS 9 or later.

Part 3. iOS 8 User Options Moving Forward

With Apple ending iCloud backup support for devices running iOS 8 and earlier, users need to consider their options to ensure their data remains secure. Here are the key options available:

Update to iOS 9 or Later

To continue using iCloud backups, users should update their devices to at least iOS 9. This can be done via:

• Settings Menu: Navigate to Settings > General > Software Update to check for and install available updates.
• Finder or iTunes: Connect the device to a Mac or Windows PC and use Finder (for macOS Catalina and later) or iTunes (for older macOS versions and Windows) to perform the update.

Manual Backup Options:

If updating is not feasible, users can manually back up their devices using

• Finder on macOS: Connect the device via USB, open Finder, select the device from the sidebar, and choose "Back Up Now".
• iTunes on Windows or older macOS: Connect the device, open iTunes, select the device icon, and click "Back Up Now".
• Tenorshare iCareFone for Backup & Transfer: Selectively choose which data types (such as photos, messages, contacts) they want to back up from iPhone to PC/Mac.

Tenorshare iCareFone
Best iOS Backup Tool and File Manager
• Free backup everything you need on iPhone/iPad/iPod
• Transfer music, photos, videos, contacts, SMS without limitation
• Selectively restore files without erasing current data
• 1-Click to transfer photos from iPhone to PC/Mac
• Sopport the latest iOS 18 and iPhone 16
FREE DOWNLOAD FREE DOWNLOAD BUY NOW BUY NOW

Data Preservation:

While users will lose access to iCloud backup functionality, all apps and data currently stored on their devices will remain intact. Users should ensure they have a local backup before the deadline to avoid any potential data loss.

Part 4. Expert Opinions on the End of iOS 8 iCloud Backup

Industry experts view this change as a necessary step for Apple to maintain security and efficiency in its services. The transition reflects a broader trend in technology where companies phase out support for outdated systems to focus resources on current technologies.

While some users may feel inconvenienced, especially those with older devices that cannot upgrade, experts argue that this move encourages users to adopt newer technologies that offer enhanced features and security measures.

Conclusion

Apple's decision to end iCloud backup support for devices running iOS 8 and earlier is a strategic move aimed at enhancing service efficiency and security. As December 18 approaches, users must act promptly—either by updating their devices or opting for manual backup solutions—to ensure their data remains secure.