Before you proceed, understand that using a 7+ year old app version comes with serious consequences:
Facebook version 1255 refers to an older build of the Facebook iOS app, likely released around late 2017 or early 2018. The version numbering has changed multiple times over the years, but “1255” remains a recognizable milestone for users who remember:
Note: Facebook’s current iOS version (as of 2025) is in the 400+ range after a reset in version numbering. “1255” is from before that reset.
Despite Facebook’s billions of users, many feel the modern app has become bloated, confusing, and privacy-invasive. Specific complaints driving the search for version 1255 include:
| Modern Facebook Problem | Version 1255 Advantage | |---|---| | Too many tabs (Watch, Marketplace, Gaming) | Cleaner, simpler UI | | Heavy ads and suggested content | Fewer ads, more friends’ posts | | Slow on older iPhones | Lightweight, faster performance | | Constant prompts to use Facebook Dating | No such feature | | Difficult to find “Most Recent” feed | Chronological feed available easily |
For users with iPhones stuck on iOS 10, 11, or 12, version 1255 may be one of the last compatible builds before Facebook dropped support for older operating systems.
If you are holding an iPhone 5s, an iPhone 6, or even the original iPad Air, you likely know the specific frustration of the "iOS 12.5.5 Wall."
Your device works perfectly fine. The screen isn't cracked, the battery holds a charge, and it plays music just fine. But when you try to open Facebook, you’re hit with the dreaded prompt: "Update required to use this app." And when you hit "Update," the App Store gives you the final blow: "This application requires iOS 13 or later."
It feels like planned obsolescence at its finest. But before you toss your perfectly good device in a drawer, there is a workaround. If you have a specific version number in mind—like the elusive Facebook v255—or just want the app working again, here is your guide to breathing new life into your older iOS device. facebook old version for ios 1255 install
Published: October 26, 2023
App Version Focus: 125.0 (Build 1255) – circa late 2015 / early 2016
In the current era of the iPhone 15 and iOS 17, the Facebook app has become a monolithic piece of software. It houses not just a social feed, but a marketplace, a gaming hub, a video studio (Reels), a dating service, and a metaverse portal. It is heavy, resource-intensive, and notoriously hard on battery life.
But what if you could strip it all away? What if you could return to a time when Facebook was just Facebook—a chronological news feed of your friends’ vacation photos and baby announcements?
Enter Facebook for iOS version 1255. For a niche community of digital archivists, jailbreakers, and nostalgic users, this specific build represents the "goldilocks" era of the mobile social network. This article explores why version 1255 matters, the technical hurdles of installing it on modern iOS, and a practical guide for those brave enough to attempt the downgrade.
Facebook version 1255 for iOS is not a practical daily driver. It is a digital artifact. Installing it requires either a time machine (an old iPhone on an obsolete OS) or a high tolerance for sideloading troubleshooting.
However, for the 20 minutes you scroll through it, you remember what social media felt like before the algorithm turned into a casino. It was slower, quieter, and arguably, better. As Facebook pushes further into the metaverse and AI-generated content, builds like 1255 serve as a reminder of the product we originally signed up for: a simple, blue rectangle connecting you to your friends.
If you have an old iPhone 6 in a drawer, and an evening to spare, give it a try. Just don't expect to post a Reel.
Disclaimer: Downloading and sideloading modified or old IPAs violates Facebook's Terms of Service. Your account may be flagged for "suspicious activity" or temporarily locked. Use at your own risk and never install untrusted IPAs from unknown sources on a device with banking information. Before you proceed, understand that using a 7+
Installing an older version of Facebook on iOS 12.5.5 is still possible by using the Apple App Store's built-in feature to download the "last compatible version," provided you have previously "purchased" or downloaded the app on your Apple ID. If the app has never been linked to your account, you will need a newer iOS device to first add it to your purchase history. Method 1: The "Purchased History" Trick
If you have downloaded Facebook before using your Apple ID, follow these steps: Open the App Store on your iPhone running iOS 12.5.5. Tap on your Apple ID profile icon at the top right. Select Purchased to view your app history. Search for "Facebook" in this list. Tap the Cloud/Download icon next to it.
A prompt will appear stating the current version requires a newer iOS, but offering to Download an older version of this app. Tap Download. Method 2: Using a Newer Device
If Facebook is not in your purchase history, the App Store may block the download entirely.
Find a newer device (iPhone/iPad) running iOS 13.4 or later.
Sign in to that device's App Store using your same Apple ID.
Search for and download Facebook on that newer device to add it to your account.
Return to your iOS 12.5.5 device and follow the steps in Method 1 above to download it from your history. Alternatives and Limitations Note: Facebook’s current iOS version (as of 2025)
Web Version: If the app fails to install or crashes, you can access Facebook via the Safari browser. You can even add a shortcut to your home screen by tapping the "Share" icon in Safari and selecting Add to Home Screen.
Facebook Lite: In some regions, the Facebook Lite app may be more compatible with older hardware, though support varies by iOS version and country.
Hardware Compatibility: Devices stuck on iOS 12.5.5 (like iPhone 5s, 6, and 6 Plus) have limited RAM, which can lead to slow performance or occasional crashes even with older app versions.
Security Risks: Older versions of the app do not receive the latest security patches or features. How can i install Facebook in ios 12.5.5 - Apple Community
How can i install Facebook in ios 12.5.5. iPhone 6 Plus, iOS 12. Posted on Oct 3, 2022 8:36 AM. (49) Me too (2046) Me too Me too ( Apple Support Community
Instead of chasing a risky, broken old version, consider these safer options:
| Alternative | Why It Works | |---|---| | Facebook Lite (via Safari or third-party IPA) | Lightweight, data-friendly, runs on old iOS | | Use Safari mobile website | Add to Home Screen — feels like an app, no forced updates | | Friendly Social Browser (App Store) | Third-party client with chronological feed and ad blocking | | Frost for Facebook (if you can sideload) | Open-source, clean UI, supports older iOS | | Downgrade to iOS 12 + older Facebook (jailbreak only) | Only for advanced users with device backups |
To understand version 1255, we must rewind the clock to late 2015 / early 2016. The iPhone 6s had just launched with 2GB of RAM. 3D Touch was the new gimmick. And Facebook was racing to become a "video-first" platform.
Version 125.0 (Build 1255) sat at a unique crossroads:
Why version 1255 specifically? For users on jailbroken iPhones (iOS 9, 10, 11), version 1255 was often cited as the last build before Facebook injected the "Canvas" web browser engine (which broke many tweaks) and the last version that ran smoothly on 1GB RAM devices like the iPhone 6.