More than a decade ago, the iPhone 5 was the sleek, futuristic phone everyone wanted. It was the first to ditch the old 30-pin cable for Apple’s new Lightning connector, and the first iPhone to ride the 4G LTE wave. In 2012, this phone felt fast, light, and modern.
But with almost a dozen new iPhone generations since then, the question now is: is the iPhone 5 still good in 2025?
The short answer: sort of — but not as a full smartphone.
Thanks to Canada’s 3G network shutdown and changes in iOS and app support, the iPhone 5’s role in 2025 is limited.
If you still have one in a drawer—or are thinking of picking one up second-hand – Here’s what you can (and can’t) do with it.
The 3G Network Shutdown and What It Means for the iPhone 5
Canada’s 3G network retirement has changed everything for older phones. The iPhone 5 supports 4G LTE data, but it does not support VoLTE (Voice over LTE), the technology carriers now use for voice calls.
That means if you’re using an iPhone 5 in 2025, you can still go online, send iMessages, and browse the web, but you can’t make standard phone calls or send SMS texts. Some networks, like Rogers, may still offer limited 2G fallback in select areas, but it’s being phased out quickly.
For a full breakdown of how the 3G shutdown affects older iPhones, check out Orchard’s 3G Network Retirement guide.
What Still Works on the iPhone 5 in 2025
Even though calling is off the table, the iPhone 5 isn’t completely obsolete. Over Wi-Fi, it still handles a surprising number of everyday tasks. You can:
- Browse the internet using Safari (with some modern website limitations)
- Use iMessage and FaceTime to chat with other Apple users
- Stream media from YouTube or Spotify (with older app versions)
- Store and play music, podcasts, and audiobooks
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Use basic note-taking or productivity apps that support iOS 10
Essentially, your iPhone 5 can function as a Wi-Fi-only smart device, perfect for travel, media playback, or simple messaging.
iOS Support and App Compatibility
The iPhone 5’s latest software update was iOS 10.3.4, released in 2019. Since then, it’s received no new software or security updates. Most modern apps now require iOS 13 or newer, and many won’t install or may crash after opening.
That said, some apps still offer “last compatible version” downloads. You might be able to install older versions of Netflix, Kindle, or Spotify that still work on iOS 10 — just without the latest features or security patches.
If you’re not sure whether an app you rely on will still work, try Orchard’s App Compatibility Checker. It shows which iOS version you’ll need for over 200 popular apps, helping you find compatible phones and software.
To understand how iOS updates affect app functionality, see Orchard’s iOS Compatibility Explained — a quick guide to how Apple’s software timelines work.
Camera and Performance
The iPhone 5’s 8-megapixel rear camera and 1.2-megapixel front camera were standout features in 2012, but they show their age in 2025. Photos are fine in bright light, but low-light performance and dynamic range lag far behind modern iPhones (for comparison, the iPhone 16 Pro Max has a 48MP main camera and 12MP front camera and offers optical zoom of up to 5x).
Performance-wise, the A6 chip and 1 GB of RAM handle very light tasks like notes, texts, or offline music smoothly. But demanding apps, modern web pages, or streaming content can feel sluggish — especially on newer networks and websites designed for higher performance devices.
Battery Life and Repairability
The real challenge is battery life. After more than ten years, most original batteries don’t hold much charge or shut down unexpectedly.
You can replace the batteries fairly cheaply, but depending on what you want to use the phone for, it might not be worth the cost. If you’re considering buying an iPhone 5, you’re probably better off with something newer yet cost effective —like a refurbished iPhone 7 or SE.
Who the iPhone 5 Is Still Good For
Even though it’s not ideal as a main phone anymore, there are still a few people who might love an iPhone 5 in 2025:
- Kids or teens who only need Wi-Fi access for messaging or games
- Minimalists seeking a distraction-free, simplified device
- Travelers using it as an offline map or music player
- Collectors preserving Apple history
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DIY tinkerers who enjoy restoring or experimenting with vintage tech
If you fall into one of these categories, an iPhone 5 can still be a fun and functional device — just not one to rely on for calls or daily communication.
Sustainability and Value
Reusing older phones keeps them out of landfills and reduces e-waste, which is a small but real win for the planet. (Read more about the environmental impact of the iPhone here)
That said, the iPhone 5’s lack of 3G calling, dated iOS version, and shrinking app support mean it’s best used as a Wi-Fi-only companion, not your daily driver.
If you’re ready for something newer that still feels affordable, browse Orchard’s selection of refurbished iPhones. You’ll find models like the iPhone SE (2nd Gen) or iPhone 11 that still receive iOS updates and run all your favourite apps.
Verdict: A Classic That’s Reached Its Limit
Think of it this way: even in 2025, the iPhone 5 is miles ahead of flip phones from its era. It’s still a solid piece of hardware that can browse, stream, and message over Wi-Fi without a problem.
But because of the 3G network shutdown and the end of iOS support, it’s not a practical everyday phone anymore. It’s better as a backup, travel device, or collectible piece of Apple history.
So, is the iPhone 5 still good in 2025?
Yes—just not in the way it used to be.