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What is iOS?

Jasper26 AUGUST 2025
A hand holds an Apple iPhone with a purple display, slim bezels, and a Dynamic Island cut-out. The lock screen shows 9:41 on Monday, September 9.

iOS is Apple’s official operating system for iPhones. Known for its smooth performance, user-friendly design and strong security, it connects seamlessly with other Apple devices. If you use an iPhone, you're using iOS every day... but what exactly does that mean? Here's everything you need to know.

Which iPhones uses iOS?

A hand holds an Apple iPhone, showing 9:41 on Tuesday, April 1. Sleek bezels, notch at the top, glossy orb wallpaper, bright, crisp display.

iOS began as ‘iPhone OS’ in 2007 and was renamed iOS in 2010. The latest iPhones come with iOS pre-installed. Recent models with iOS include:

All about the Apple iPhone 17e

What’s the latest version of iOS?

Five Apple iPhones display iOS 18 features: gaming, Messages, custom widgets, emoji creation, and Maps, arranged across a clean white backdrop.

The current version is iOS 18, released in September 2024. Its biggest new features include:

  • Apple Intelligence: Tools for writing, editing, and generating content. (Not available in Dutch).
  • Passwords App: Securely manage all your logins in one place.
  • Lock Screen Customisation: Change quick-access buttons for a more personal experience.
  • Photo App Redesign: Smarter search and improved layout.

More about iOS 18

Which iPhones still receive security updates?

A hand holds an Apple iPhone showing a vivid home screen with large icons over a fashion photo, slim bezels, and the Dynamic Island at the top.

Apple continues offering security updates to older iPhones even after they stop receiving major software upgrades. These updates protect against malware and vulnerabilities.

Devices still expected to receive security patches in 2025 include:

  • Older versions: iPhone 6s, iPhone 7, iPhone 8, iPhone X, iPhone XR en iPhone XS / XS Max
  • iPhone SE (Gen 1, 2 en 3)
  • iPhone 12 (including the mini, Pro and Pro Max)
  • iPhone 13 (including the mini, Pro and Pro Max)
  • iPhone 14 (including the Plus, Pro and Pro Max)
  • iPhone 15 (including the Plus, Pro and Pro Max)
  • iPhone 16 (including the 16e, Plus, Pro and Pro Max)

What is the best iPhone?

Which iPhones still receive iOS updates?

Software updates typically cover 5 to 6 years. Devices currently receiving iOS updates include:

ModelUpdate support until

iPhone XR

September 2025

iPhone 11 series

September 2025

iPhone SE (Gen 2)

September 2026

iPhone 12 series

September 2026

iPhone 13 series

September 2027

iPhone 14 series

September 2028

iPhone 15 series

September 2029

iPhone 16 series

September 2030

Meer over de iPhone 16e

Our advice on Apple's iOS

Hands using a black smartphone at a warm-lit table; soft focus on the person in a light top. No visible brand or logo can be identified.

iOS offers a secure, polished experience and is constantly evolving through regular updates. iPhones receive years of software and security support, making them a solid long-term choice. The newest version, iOS 18, introduces major improvements, but even older iPhones remain functional and safe to use. If you want the full feature set, we recommend a model from the iPhone 14 series or later.

Transfer your iPhone's data

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