Blockbuster Apple upgrade may prove costly for millions of iPhone users

There’s a shiny new operating system coming to the iPhone later this year but the release of iOS 17 could leave some Apple fans feeling more than a little deflated. This all-new software isn’t being made available to the same list of devices currently able to run iOS 16 and that means some could be forced to splash out on an expensive upgrade if they want access to all the very latest features.

Gadgets that are losing the ability to run the new OS include the iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus and iPhone X. These are old devices (the iPhone 8 was launched in 2018) but it’s likely that millions are still being used by people across the globe.

If your call maker is on that list above you’re going to need to buy something new to get updates that include personalised Contact Posters which let users design a unique look that pops up when calls are incoming.

iOS 17 also comes packed with other features such as Live Voicemail which gives users the ability to see real-time transcription as someone leaves a voicemail, Live Stickers can also now be created from photos to make messages more fun.

Another unmissable change is something called NameDrop. This allows users to easily share contact information by simply bringing their iPhones together.

iOS 17 also introduces StandBy. This gives users a full-screen experience with glanceable information designed to be viewed from a distance when iPhone is on its side and charging.

It’s a bit like a mini smart display with things such as clocks, photos and calendar all displayed on the screen.

Finally, there’s the new Journal app which makes it easy to jot down thoughts and ideas throughout the day.

If you annoyed that your phone won’t get this upgrade you have plenty of time to save up for something new.

iOS 17 will arrive on devices this September.

“With iOS 17, we’ve made iPhone more personal and intuitive by deeply considering the features we all rely on every day,” said Craig Federighi, Apple’s senior vice president of Software Engineering.

“Phone, FaceTime, and Messages are central to how we communicate, and this release is packed with updates we think our users are going to love. We’ve also reimagined AirDrop with new ways to share, autocorrect gets even better, and we’re introducing all-new experiences with Journal and StandBy, plus so much more. We can’t wait for everyone to try it.”