Apple Warns of GPS Update

Introduction to the Issue

Apple is warning owners of older iPhones and iPads that they must update their devices to the latest iOS software by Sunday or they will lose access to the internet. This warning is due to a GPS time rollover issue that occurs every 19 years, requiring GPS devices to reset in order to accurately measure time and dates.

Affected Devices

The affected devices include the iPhone 5, iPhone 4, and certain models of the iPad, such as the iPad mini and the third-generation iPad. To check if your device is affected, you can follow these steps: open the Settings app, tap General, then tap About, and look for the number next to Software Version.

Update Details

The updated software version numbers are 10.3.4 for the iPhone 5 and iPad (4th generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular, and 9.3.6 for the iPhone 4s, iPad mini (1st generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular, iPad 2 Wi-Fi + Cellular (CDMA models only), and iPad (3rd generation) Wi-Fi + Cellular. If you are not sure which version your device has, you can follow the above steps to check.

Consequences of Not Updating

If you do not update your device before Sunday, you will not be able to connect to the internet, and over-the-air software updates and iCloud Backup will not work. In this case, you will have to back up and restore your device using a computer.

Technical Background

The GPS time rollover issue is a known problem that occurs every 19 years, when GPS devices need to reset their clocks to maintain accurate time and date measurements. This issue has affected GPS-enabled products from other manufacturers in the past, and Apple is taking steps to ensure that its devices are not affected.

Industry Context

This issue highlights the importance of regular software updates for maintaining the security and functionality of devices. As technology continues to evolve, it is essential for manufacturers to prioritize software updates and ensure that their devices are compatible with the latest technologies. For instance, companies like Stripe are introducing new features like Link, a digital wallet that autonomous AI agents can use. Meanwhile, Microsoft is testing its Automatic Super Resolution (Auto SR) feature on the Xbox Ally X, which improves visual quality and frame rates in select games.

History of GPS Time Rollover

The GPS time rollover issue is not new and has been a concern for GPS device manufacturers for years. In the past, other companies have had to deal with similar issues, and it is essential for Apple to take proactive steps to address the problem. The fact that Apple is warning its users about the issue and providing a solution is a testament to the company’s commitment to maintaining the security and functionality of its devices.

Downstream Implications

The consequences of not updating the devices will be significant, and users will face difficulties in connecting to the internet and using various services. This issue will also have implications for the tech industry, as it highlights the importance of regular software updates and the need for manufacturers to prioritize compatibility with the latest technologies. As companies like TikTok and X continue to grow and introduce new features, it is essential for them to ensure that their devices and services are compatible with the latest technologies and can withstand issues like the GPS time rollover.

Technical Mechanics

The GPS time rollover issue is caused by the way GPS devices store time and date information. GPS devices use a 10-bit counter to store the number of weeks since the GPS epoch, which is the reference point for GPS time. This counter can only store a maximum of 1,024 weeks, which is equivalent to approximately 19.7 years. When the counter reaches its maximum value, it resets to zero, causing the GPS device to lose its accurate time and date measurements.

Broader Implications

The GPS time rollover issue has broader implications for the tech industry. As devices become increasingly reliant on GPS technology, the need for regular software updates and compatibility with the latest technologies becomes more critical. Companies must prioritize software updates and ensure that their devices are compatible with the latest technologies to avoid issues like the GPS time rollover.

Updates

• 2026-05-14 — Tell HN: Dont use Claude Design, lost access to my projects after unsubscribing (source)