Apple has a reputation for long-term software support, but eventually even iPhones reach the end of the update line. For many users still holding on to an iPhone 6, 6s, or 7, the highest official version you can get is iOS 15 (for iPhone 6s and 7) or iOS 12 (for iPhone 6). This can be frustrating, especially since a lot of apps in 2025 now require iOS 16 or higher.
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| How to Update iOS 12 to 16 | Install iOS 16 on iPhone 6, 6s & 7 |
So, can you really update iOS 12 to iOS 16 on these older models? The short answer is: not officially. Apple ended support, which means you won’t find iOS 16 in your settings update screen. But there are some workarounds and tricks to get the feel of iOS 16 or run apps that normally require it. Let’s break it down.
iPhone Compatibility: What’s Official and What’s Not
Here’s the reality:
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iPhone 6 Stuck at iOS 12.5.7
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iPhone 6s & 6s Plus Last supported is iOS 15.7.x
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iPhone 7 & 7 Plus Last supported is iOS 15.7.x
Apple only made iOS 16 available starting with the iPhone 8 and newer. That means the 6, 6s, and 7 series are left behind.
Option 1: Install the Latest Available Update
First, make sure your phone is on the last iOS version Apple provides for your model. This gives you the most stable and secure experience.
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Go to Settings > General > Software Update.
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Install any pending updates (for example, iPhone 6s and 7 users should be on iOS 15.7.x).
It’s not iOS 16, but it’s the safest choice.
Option 2: Run Apps Requiring iOS 16
A lot of users don’t actually care about the full iOS 16 system — they just want to run modern apps. There are ways around the version check:
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Use App Store’s “Download Last Compatible Version” feature if you already bought the app.
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Use AltStore or Sideloadly to install a patched version of the app that bypasses the iOS version requirement.
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Services like AppleJr DNS or enterprise signing tools can also help with direct installs.
This lets you continue using apps that claim to need iOS 16, even on iOS 12–15.
Option 3: Consider Upgrading Hardware
At some point, even with tweaks, older iPhones struggle with modern apps, battery life, and security updates. If you rely on your phone daily, the best long-term solution might be upgrading to an iPhone 8 or newer, which supports iOS 16 and beyond.
Refurbished iPhones are very affordable today, and moving from an iPhone 6/6s/7 to an iPhone 8/X or newer feels like a massive upgrade in speed and features.
Final Thoughts
You can’t officially install iOS 16 on iPhone 6, 6s, or 7, but that doesn’t mean your device is useless. With jailbreak tweaks, sideloading, and last-compatible app versions, you can extend its life a bit longer.
If you just need the iOS 16 look and feel, jailbreak mods work great. If you need modern apps, sideloading tools are the answer. And if you need full stability, consider upgrading to newer hardware.
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