Apple admits it deliberately slows down older iPhones

WASHINGTON - Apple has confirmed the long-held suspicion of some users that it is deliberately limiting the iPhones' processing speed as they age.

According to the company, it has released a feature with the iOS to reduce the processing power of older iPhones in a bid to prevent them from unexpectedly shutting down due to the degrading condition of their batteries.

"Lithium-ion batteries become less capable of supplying peak current demands when in cold conditions, have a low battery charge or as they age over time, which can result in the devices unexpectedly shutting down to protect its electronic components," Apple said in the statement released on Wednesday.