When it comes to iOS updates, Apple has traditionally been a stickler for its latest and greatest. But this month, with two sophisticated hacking tools targeting iPhones, the company has broken its own rules—backporting patches for older versions of iOS to protect users.

The latest move follows the spread of DarkSword, a tool capable of silently compromising iPhones running iOS 18. Apple will now push out software updates specifically to protect these devices, even as it continues to recommend updating to its newest OS, iOS 26.

Many iPhone users have remained on older versions due to personal preferences or concerns about the new features and interface. Critics argue that Apple's lack of backported patches for these users left them vulnerable. Now, with a growing number of hackers exploiting DarkSword, Apple is facing pressure to act.

The company’s move could set a precedent: if protecting older versions proves necessary in future incidents, it might mean Apple is willing to adapt its approach to security updates. But some users remain unconvinced, arguing that the latest version offers better protection and a more polished user experience.