Apple Says iPhone 5 Owners Should Update To iOS 10.3.4 By November 3

Apple is now advising iPhone 5 users to update their handsets before Nov. 3 so that key features will continue working on the device.

In an entry on the Apple Support page, the Cupertino tech giant said iPhone 5 users will need to update their handsets to iOS 10.3.4 before Nov. 3, 2019 at 12:00 a.m. UTC. This update will ensure that features relying on accurate time and date settings will continue to work from that time. These include essential apps such as the App Store, email, web browsing, and the iCloud feature.

Apple said this is problem is due to a GPS time rollover issue that started affecting GPS-enabled products from other manufacturers on April 6, 2019. Apple-branded products weren't affected by that issue until before midnight UTC on Nov. 3, 2019.

MacRumors noted that the iPhone 5 and the fourth-generation iPad, with Wi-Fi and Cellular, need to be updated to iOS 10.3.4 so they can continue to use the said functions and maintain accurate GPS location readings.

Those who fail to update their devices by Nov. 3, 2019, however, won't be stuck with a device that can't connect to the internet. Apple says users can still back up and update their devices using a Mac or a PC; only iCloud Backup and over-the-air updates won't work.

Those who use older Apple devices that are also affected by the issue should update to iOS 9.3.6. These devices include the iPhone 4S as well as cellular models of the iPad mini, iPad 2 and iPad 3.

Here's how to update an iPhone 5 to iOS 10.3.4:

• First, open the Settings app on the device.
• Second, tap on General, then tap on About.
• Lastly, look for Software Version, then see if the number is 10.3.4. Update if the device isn't using this version.

Here are a few things to remember before updating the device:

• Free up space

Remember to delete unused apps and files so that there will be enough room for iOS 10.3.4. It's a small upgrade that ensures continued iPhone 5 functionality.

• Back up

Back up all files so none will be lost. Users who back up before midnight UTC on Nov. 3 can use iCloud backup. Those who back up after that time can only do so using a Mac or PC.