Apple is set to release its iOS 26 software update this fall, bringing new features and enhancements to various iPhone models, while rendering some older devices incompatible.
The iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, and iPhone XR, which are currently compatible with iOS 18, will not support the upcoming iOS 26 update, marking a significant change in compatibility from previous updates.
The iPhones that will support iOS 26 include a range of models, specifically the iPhone 16e, iPhone 16 and 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro and 16 Pro Max, iPhone 15 and 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro and 15 Pro Max, iPhone 14 and 14 Plus, iPhone 14 Pro and 14 Pro Max, iPhone 13 and 13 mini, iPhone 13 Pro and 13 Pro Max, iPhone 12 and 12 mini, iPhone 12 Pro and 12 Pro Max, iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro and 11 Pro Max, and iPhone SE models from the 2nd generation onwards.
While these models will be compatible with iOS 26, not all of them will have access to every feature. For example, AI-powered features will be exclusive to the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max and the iPhone 16 models, indicating a tiered experience across compatible devices.
iOS 26 is currently in beta testing and is expected to be generally available to all users this fall, bringing the latest enhancements and features to supported iPhone models.
