Apple is changing its iCloud backup system which could affect users who have stored backups from older devices.

Starting December 18, 2024, iCloud will no longer support device backups created on iOS 8 or earlier. Unless saved elsewhere, those backups will be permanently deleted.

What’s Changing?

As of December 18, Apple will require device backups to originate from iOS 9 or newer to remain stored on iCloud. This means any backups created using iOS 8 or earlier devices will no longer be accessible. If users want to preserve this data, they must download it and store it locally before the deadline.


iOS 8, released in 2014, introduced features like Handoff, third-party keyboard support, and improved Message capabilities. However, with nearly a decade of advancements since, Apple has deemed these backups outdated.

How to Check Your Backups

Reviewing their iCloud backups lets Users determine if they’re affected by this update.

  • On an iOS device: Navigate to Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > Manage Storage > Backups.
  • Look for any backups associated with older devices and check their iOS versions.

If a backup was created on iOS 8 or earlier, it must be saved elsewhere to avoid deletion.

How to Save Your Data

For users who wish to retain their old backups, Apple recommends downloading and saving them locally. Here’s how:

  1. Use a computer to create a local backup:
  • On Mac (macOS Catalina or later): Connect your device to your Mac, open Finder, select your device, and click Back Up Now.
  • On Windows or older macOS versions: Open iTunes, connect your device, and click Back Up Now.
  1. Manually transfer important files:
    If creating a full local backup isn’t feasible, users can save critical files like photos, videos, and documents to alternative cloud services or external drives.
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Why Is Apple Doing This?

This change is part of Apple’s broader effort to optimize its cloud infrastructure and improve security. Supporting backups from systems as old as iOS 8 creates inefficiencies and potential vulnerabilities. By establishing iOS 9 as the minimum requirement, Apple ensures that iCloud is better aligned with modern standards.

For most users, this update will have little impact, as devices running iOS 9 or newer are widely used. However, for those who still have old backups stored in iCloud, this change could mean losing access to valuable data if no action is taken.