With WWDC 2025 just around the corner, anticipation is building for Apple’s next big software update—iOS 19. As always, iPhone users are eager to know: Will my device support iOS 19, or is it time to consider an upgrade? Here’s everything we know so far about iOS 19 compatibility, based on the latest leaks and reports.
Apple’s recent compatibility trends
In recent years, Apple has surprised users by extending support to older devices. Both iOS 17 and iOS 18 ran on the same lineup of iPhones, giving older models a longer lease on life. This move was widely welcomed by users, as it broke Apple’s usual pattern of dropping at least one or two older models with each major update.
However, early reports suggest that iOS 19 may mark a return to Apple’s traditional approach, with some older iPhones potentially losing support.
iOS 19 supported iPhones: The full list
According to the French website iPhoneSoft.fr, iOS 19 will not be available on every device that runs iOS 18. Specifically, the iPhone XR, iPhone XS, and iPhone XS Max are rumored to be left out of the update.
Here’s the expected list of iPhones compatible with iOS 19:
- iPhone SE (2nd & 3rd generation)
- iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro, iPhone 11 Pro Max
- iPhone 12, iPhone 12 mini, iPhone 12 Pro, iPhone 12 Pro Max
- iPhone 13, iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 13 Pro, iPhone 13 Pro Max
- iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, iPhone 14 Pro, iPhone 14 Pro Max
- iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max
- iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, iPhone 16 Pro Max, iPhone 16e
It goes without saying that the upcoming iPhone 17 lineup will ship with iOS 19 pre-installed.
Which iPhones lose support?
If the leaks are accurate, iOS 19 will drop support for the iPhone XR, iPhone XS, and iPhone XS Max—all of which feature the A12 Bionic chip and were released in 2018. This shift may be due to hardware limitations or Apple’s strategy to focus new features on more recent devices.
What about upcoming iPhone models?
Apple’s next-generation iPhone 17 models are expected to launch with iOS 19 out of the box. As usual, these devices will likely offer the best experience and receive exclusive new features that take advantage of the latest hardware.
Device-specific features and limitations
It’s important to note that not all iOS 19 features will be available on every supported iPhone. Just as with iOS 18, some advanced capabilities—especially those powered by Apple’s AI system (Apple Intelligence)—may be limited to newer models like the iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 16 series, and beyond.
If you’re using an older supported device, you’ll still get the core iOS 19 experience, but you may miss out on select features that require more powerful hardware.
Technical details: Why some iPhones lose support
- Chipset Requirements: Apple typically supports devices for five to six years, but major updates increasingly require newer chipsets. The iPhone XR, XS, and XS Max all use the A12 Bionic chip, which may not meet the performance or AI requirements of iOS 19.
- AI and Apple Intelligence: iOS 19 is expected to expand Apple Intelligence features, such as on-device AI processing, advanced Siri capabilities, and smarter system integrations. These features demand more powerful hardware (typically A17 or later chips found in iPhone 15 Pro and newer).
- Security and Performance: Apple may also drop support for older devices to maintain a high standard for security, app compatibility, and user experience.
iPadOS 19 and other devices
If you use an iPad, note that iPadOS 19 will likely have its own compatibility list. Early reports suggest iPads with the A10 Fusion chip (such as the 7th-generation iPad) will not be supported. iPads with the A12 Bionic chip and newer are expected to make the cut.
Beta testing and timeline
Apple is expected to unveil iOS 19 at the WWDC 2025 keynote on June 9, 2025. The developer beta will be released immediately after the announcement, with the public rollout likely following in September alongside the new iPhone models.
If you’re interested in early access, consider enrolling your device in Apple’s Beta Software Program. Just keep in mind that beta versions can be unstable and are best suited for secondary devices.
Conclusion
iOS 19 promises exciting new features and improvements, but not every iPhone will make the cut. If your device is on the compatibility list, you can look forward to trying out the latest software this fall. If not, it might be time to consider upgrading to a newer model to stay up to date with Apple’s latest innovations.
Stay tuned for official details during WWDC 2025, and keep an eye on our updates as more information becomes available.
FAQs
No, according to the latest leaks, iPhone XR, iPhone XS, and iPhone XS Max will not receive the iOS 19 update. These models feature the A12 Bionic chip, which Apple is reportedly phasing out for this release.
The iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro, and iPhone 11 Pro Max—released in 2019—are expected to be the oldest models compatible with iOS 19.
No. While your iPhone may receive the iOS 19 update, some advanced features—especially those powered by Apple Intelligence (AI)—may be exclusive to newer models like the iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 16 series, and upcoming iPhone 17.
Go to Settings > General > About and look for the “Model Name.” Compare it with the official compatibility list to see if your device is eligible.
You can continue to use your device as usual, but you won’t receive new iOS features or major security updates. If staying up-to-date is important to you, consider upgrading to a newer iPhone.
You might also like:
