iOS 27: How the Next Update Will Impact Residual Values of iPhone 12 & 13
With the announcement of iOS 27 at Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) 2026, the industry is eagerly looking ahead to the autumn. As every year, a crucial question arises for the secondary market: which iPhone models will receive the new operating system update, and which will be left behind? This decision is one of the most significant drivers of residual value for used and refurbished devices.
This time, the focus is particularly on the iPhone 12 and iPhone 13. These models represent a significant portion of many resellers' current inventory and are at a critical point in their lifecycle. A well-founded assessment of the situation is now essential to optimally align your own procurement and pricing strategy for the coming months.
By TR Admin · Last updated: 2026-07-10
The iOS Support Cycle as a Value Indicator
Apple's software support is traditionally long and a strong selling point. Typically, iPhones receive the latest iOS updates for six to eight years. While the end of support doesn't render a device useless, it marks a turning point. Without updates, there are no new features, and over time, app incompatibilities and potential security vulnerabilities can significantly reduce its appeal to end-users.
For B2B resellers, this means that an iPhone falling out of the active update cycle typically experiences accelerated depreciation. Demand shifts to newer models that promise several more years of software security.
Forecast: iPhone 12 at a Crossroads, iPhone 13 Likely Safe
The iPhone 12, released in 2020 with the A14 Bionic chip, is facing its sixth major iOS update. Historically, this is the range where older models are often dropped. While the A14 chip remains powerful, new AI-driven features in iOS 27 might require a more advanced Neural Engine found only in newer chips. The market is therefore already pricing in a certain risk that the iPhone 12 might not receive the iOS 27 update.
The iPhone 13 (released in 2021) with the A15 Bionic chip is in a much more comfortable position. It would be highly unusual for Apple to exclude a device that is only five years old and equipped with such a capable processor from the update. We assume that the entire iPhone 13 series will receive iOS 27 without issue, further solidifying its position as an attractive and value-stable option in the refurbished market.
Strategic Recommendations for Your Procurement Practice
Panic is never a good advisor. Even if the iPhone 12 no longer receives official support, it will remain a sought-after device for price-sensitive buyer groups and specific use cases. However, its value will become more volatile. We therefore recommend a strategic diversification of your portfolio:
Focus a larger portion of your investment on models from the iPhone 13 upwards. These offer greater future-proofing in terms of software updates and thus more stable value retention. As your partner in B2B wholesale, we at TR Vertriebs GmbH ensure you have access to a wide range of models, from proven classics like the iPhone 11 to the current iPhone 17 Pro Max. Every device, regardless of model, is checked through our rigorous quality controls and delivered with a guaranteed battery health of over 80%. This allows you to consistently offer your customers certified SecondLife quality and intelligently adapt your inventory to market developments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will an iPhone 12 be worthless without iOS 27?
No, it will not be worthless. It retains functional and monetary value, especially in price-sensitive markets. However, a faster depreciation compared to supported models can be expected.
Which models are currently the safest investment for high resale value?
Generally, newer models like the iPhone 14 and up offer the greatest security due to a long, guaranteed iOS support period. The iPhone 13 represents an excellent compromise between price and future-proofing.
Does TR Vertriebs also offer models that no longer receive updates?
Yes, we carry a wide range starting from the iPhone 11, as there is still stable demand for these devices. Our detailed grading allows you to procure the exact quality that your target audience needs.