Become a MacRumors Supporter for $50/year with no ads, ability to filter front page stories, and private forums.
If the hardware can't handle the newer OS, that's probably why they give up on updates?

The advantage that Apple has over Android is that even though your hardware may be 5 years old (like the iPhone 3GS) you still can take advantage of the newer features the latest iOS has to offer (minus features that really are hardware dependant). With Android they cut you loose of newer features if your phone is a year or more older.
 
Register on MacRumors! This sidebar will go away, and you'll see fewer ads.