Apple has officially unveiled the next-generation operating system for the iPhone, and as expected, it’s called iOS 26—not iOS 19. This latest update brings in a new design, advanced AI capabilities, and improved app functionalities
Wondering if your iPhone will make the cut for iOS 26? We’ve got the full list
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, iOS 26 marks the return to Apple’s traditional approach, with some older iPhones losing support.
iOS 26 Supported iPhones: The Full List
Here’s the expected list of iPhones compatible with iOS 26:
- 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 26 pre-installed.
Which iPhones Lose Support?
iOS 26 discontinues support for the iPhone XS, XS Max, and SE lineup, which was launched in 2019. As a result, iOS 18 is the final major software update for the said models.
What About Upcoming iPhone Models?
Apple’s next-generation iPhone 17 models will, without a doubt, launch with iOS 26 out of the box. As usual, these devices will likely offer the best experience and receive exclusive new features that leverage the latest hardware.
Device-Specific Features and Limitations
It’s important to note that not all iOS 26 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 26 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 26.
- AI and Apple Intelligence: iOS 26 expands Apple Intelligence features, such as on-device AI processing 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 also drops support for older devices to maintain a high standard for security, app compatibility, and user experience.
iPadOS 26 Supported Devices
If you use an iPad, here’s a complete list of iPad models that support iPadOS 26:
- iPad Pro (M4)
- iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd generation and later)
- iPad Pro 11-inch (1st generation and later)
- Pad Air (M2 and later)
- iPad Air (3rd generation and later)
- iPad (A16)
- iPad (8th generation and later)
- Pad mini (A17 Pro)
- iPad mini (5th generation and later)
Beta Testing and Timeline
The first iOS 26 developer beta will be available be download just after the keynote concludes, 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. Please note that beta versions can be unstable and are best suited for secondary devices.
Conclusion
iOS 26 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 may be time to consider upgrading to a newer model to stay current with Apple’s latest innovations.
FAQs
The iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro, and iPhone 11 Pro Max—released in 2019—are the oldest models compatible with iOS 26.
No. While your iPhone may receive the iOS 26 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:
