Apple's iOS 26 won't be compatible with many iphones - is yours on the list?
Published On June 10,2025 . By Your GeekyPick
Apple's latest operating system, iOS 26, promises a wide range of new features and enhancements, including a Liquid Glass interface, enhanced apps like Messages and Camera, and improved performance. However, as with most major updates, some older iPhone models will not be able to support the new software. In this blog post, we’ll explore which iPhones are compatible with iOS 26, which ones are being left behind, and what new features Apple is bringing to the table.
What is iOS 26?
iOS 26 is Apple's latest update to the iPhone operating system, bringing significant changes in terms of interface, app performance, and overall user experience. Apple has already hinted at some of the most exciting features that iOS 26 will introduce:
Liquid Glass Interface: A sleek and customizable interface that offers dynamic transitions and smoother animations.
Enhanced Camera Features: New photo filters and AI-driven features to take your pictures to the next level.
Revamped Messages App: More customization options, improved group chat features, and new ways to share multimedia.
Apple Intelligence: Advanced machine learning tools that improve everything from Siri to live translation in Messages and smart Calendar features.
However, not every iPhone will be able to handle the new update. Apple has decided to drop support for some older models that don’t meet the hardware requirements for iOS 26.
iPhones Compatible with iOS 26
If you own any of the following iPhone models, you're in luck! These devices will receive full iOS 26 support, including all the latest features:
iPhone 16 Series (2025)
iPhone 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, 16 Pro Max (2024)
iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max (2023)
iPhone 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max (2022)
iPhone 13, 13 mini, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max (2021)
iPhone 12, 12 mini, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max (2020)
iPhone 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max (2019)
iPhone SE (2nd generation, 2020) and newer
These iPhones will benefit from the improved performance, design changes, and upgraded apps offered by iOS 26. In addition, you'll be able to take advantage of cutting-edge Apple Intelligence features, such as live translation and enhanced photo management.
iPhones Not Compatible with iOS 26
Unfortunately, if you have any of the following iPhones, you will not be able to upgrade to iOS 26. These models have been excluded from the update due to hardware limitations:
iPhone XS (2018)
iPhone XS Max (2018)
iPhone XR (2018)
If you own one of these older models, you’ll be left on iOS 18, which means no access to the latest features and security updates. It may be time to consider upgrading to a newer model to continue receiving support from Apple.
New Features in iOS 26
iOS 26 isn’t just about performance improvements—it also introduces some exciting new features. Here’s what you can expect if your iPhone is compatible with iOS 26:
1. Liquid Glass Interface
One of the most noticeable changes will be the Liquid Glass interface, which transforms how the iPhone looks and feels. The new design brings smoother animations, enhanced multitasking, and dynamic transitions between apps. It’s a visually stunning update that changes the iPhone experience.
2. Apple Intelligence
Apple's new AI-driven features will make your device smarter and more intuitive. You can expect to see live translation in Messages and improved smart suggestions in apps like Calendar and Mail. Siri will also be more powerful, offering advanced voice recognition and context-based responses.
3. Enhanced Camera Features
The Camera app gets some major improvements in iOS 26. Expect new AI-powered photo filters, better portrait modes, and more professional-grade camera settings. If you love taking photos with your iPhone, iOS 26 will provide the tools to make your pictures look even better.
4. Upgraded Messages App
iOS 26 will bring new customization options to the Messages app, allowing users to personalize their chats more than ever. Expect enhanced group chat features and the ability to share media with fewer taps. Emojis, stickers, and multimedia sharing will be easier than before.
When Will iOS 26 Be Released?
iOS 26 is currently available as a developer beta, with a public beta expected to roll out next month. The final version of iOS 26 will likely be released in September 2025, in tandem with the launch of the iPhone 17 series.
Should You Upgrade Your iPhone?
If your iPhone is on the list of supported devices, upgrading to iOS 26 is a no-brainer. However, if you own an iPhone XS, XS Max, or XR, you’ll need to consider upgrading your device if you want to keep up with the latest software updates and features.
While iPhones that are not compatible with iOS 26 will still function well for the time being, they won’t receive important security updates or new features, leaving them vulnerable over time.
Conclusion
With iOS 26, Apple is bringing some exciting new features to iPhone users, but not every model will be able to enjoy these updates. If you own an iPhone 11 or newer, you're set for the latest upgrade. However, if your iPhone is older, such as the iPhone XS or XR, you might want to start planning for a future upgrade to continue receiving the latest enhancements, security updates, and features. Stay tuned for more details about the iOS 26 release as it approaches!