iPhone users warned they’re missing out on free perks as Apple reveals millions of handsets are STILL using old iOS

IPHONE owners have been warned they are missing out on a raft of free perks because they’re clinging to Apple’s outdated iOS software.

Apple has released figures on the adoption of iOS 17, which is the first time the tech giant has released details of this kind.

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The numbers show that nearly a quarter of all eligible iPhone owners are still relying on iOS 16, Apple’s older system software.

Apple launched iOS 17 in September last year, with a host of new features, including personalised contact posters, custom stickers, better widgets, new camera options, a revamped timer, and a brand new Apple-native app.

But the perks in iOS 17 have failed to lure iPhone owners into installing the new update, Apple’s figures suggest.

The numbers reveal that uptake of iOS 17 is lagging behind that of iOS 16, which was released in September 2022.

It appears iPhone owners have adopted a ‘if it isn’t broken, don’t fix it’-type mindset when it comes to their device’s operating system.

And for some, the features included in iOS 17 simply weren’t good enough to be worth the download.

“Nobody wants wallpapers as a “major” update,” one user wrote on X (formerly Twitter).

“We do prefer wait until a better version to make the jump.”

Another said: “iOS 16 here don’t see a single thing I need from iOS 17 skipping it and waiting for iOS 18.”

While others say their iPhone is too old, and therefore can’t download the update.

“If I could update my iPhone X to iOS 17, I would,” another user tweeted. “Sadly, I cannot.”

Not every iPhone will be compatible with iOS 17, so be sure to check the full list of eligible phones.

How to make your iPhone ready for iOS 17

Back-up

It’s always good practice to back up any smartphone.

But during a major update it’s even more important just in case something goes wrong.

So make sure all your precious photos, videos and other files are backed up with iCloud or any other storage service before setting off.

Clear Space

Next, you need to have some space available for the update to download.

Typically, iOS updates can be up to 10GB in size.

So if you know you’re running low on space, you might want to clear out any disused apps or old files.

Power Up

You need at least 50 per cent of battery to download iOS 17.

And you need at least 20 per cent for it to install.

So juice up – it’s probably best to leave it plugged in throughout the installation.

Connect to Wi-Fi

Given how large iOS updates are, you’ll need to be connected to Wi-Fi.

Otherwise you could use up a load of your data.

Not only that, Wi-Fi is quicker.

This post first appeared on Thesun.co.uk