Apple officially unveiled iOS 26 at WWDC 2025, introducing significant changes beyond just new features. As usual, this update means some older iPhone models will no longer receive software updates, leaving them limited to essential security patches.
This article clarifies exactly which iPhones can upgrade to iOS 26, identifies those left behind, and explains the implications for users.
✅ iPhones Compatible with iOS 26
Good news if you own an iPhone released from 2019 onward—your device is ready for iOS 26. Here’s the complete list of compatible models:
- iPhone 16: iPhone 16e, iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, iPhone 16 Pro Max
- iPhone 15: iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max
- iPhone 14: iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, iPhone 14 Pro, iPhone 14 Pro Max
- iPhone 13: iPhone 13, iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 13 Pro, iPhone 13 Pro Max
- iPhone 12: iPhone 12, iPhone 12 mini, iPhone 12 Pro, iPhone 12 Pro Max
- iPhone 11: iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro, iPhone 11 Pro Max
- iPhone SE: 2nd generation (2020), 3rd generation (2022)
Apple continues support for iPhones with the A13 Bionic chip or newer, ensuring these devices fully benefit from the latest software enhancements.
❌ iPhones Not Supported by iOS 26
Unfortunately, some older models lose compatibility this year. Specifically, devices using the A12 Bionic chip will not receive the iOS 26 update:
- iPhone XR
- iPhone XS
- iPhone XS Max
These models will remain on iOS 18.x, receiving only critical security updates going forward. This phase-out was expected given the devices’ age (released in 2018), but it still poses challenges for users relying heavily on these iPhones, which are still widely used in 2025.
📅 When Will iOS 26 be Released?
The first developer beta of iOS 26 is already available, while the public beta typically launches in July. The final release is expected in the fall, likely September, coinciding with the launch of new iPhone models. Compatible devices will receive the update simultaneously on release day.
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