Many people wonder whether their devices will be eligible for the latest software update once Apple introduces a major update. During the 2025 WWDC, Apple revealed iOS 26 with impressive updates and a brand-new appearance, but also announced that support for older iPhones would end.
Here’s everything you need to know about iOS 26 compatibility.
iOS 26 Leaves Behind a Few Devices
Nobody expected that Apple would keep its list of compatible iPhones the same when iOS 18 was released after iOS 17. However, this year is different from the previous ones.
The iPhone XR, iPhone XS, and iPhone XS Max will not receive the iOS 26 release. So, they discontinued iOS 25 as their top-level update. The models were presented in 2018, and having sustained support for seven years, Apple is ready to look ahead.
Complete List of iPhones Compatible with iOS 26
Apple says that the following iPhones will be updated to iOS 26:
- iPhone 11, 11 Pro, and 11 Pro Max
- iPhone SE (2nd generation)
- iPhone 12 mini, 12, 12 Pro, and 12 Pro Max
- iPhone 13 mini, 13, 13 Pro, and 13 Pro Max
- iPhone SE (3rd generation)
- iPhone 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, and 14 Pro Max
- iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, and 15 Pro Max
- iPhone 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, and 16 Pro Max
- iPhone 16e
Every iPhone made since 2019 (except the iPhone XR and iPhone XS) should be compatible with iOS 26, even with the developer beta now or the public beta later.
What if your iPhone is not on this list?
Since the iPhone XR, XS, and XS Max do not support iOS 26, Apple almost always provides security updates for older models. It ensures that your phone is still protected from threats, without relying on the latest features.
Therefore, you can continue using one of these models as long as you practice safe procedures. However, for the complete iOS 26 offering, it may be wise to consider an upgrade.
What’s Next: iPhone 17 Series
We are just a few months away from the next iPhone release. Rumors suggest Apple will launch.
- iPhone 17
- iPhone 17 Air
- iPhone 17 Pro
- iPhone 17 Pro Max
And possibly even an iPhone 17e early next year.
All of them will be equipped with iOS 26 straight out of the box and are set to display the young OS’s design and features in full, as well as some particular features designed for new devices from Apple.
Although Apple offers strong software support, its devices still wear out over time, so some people may not be able to benefit from the upgraded features of iOS 26.
