Apple iOS 26 Compatibility Guide Which iPhones and iPads Will Get the Update
Following the upcoming Apple iPhone event, the official releases of iOS 26 and iPadOS 26 are on the horizon. These updates promise significant upgrades, including a major visual overhaul known as Liquid Glass. This design refresh offers a cohesive look across Apple operating systems with updated app icons and a new floating button design.
For those eager to try it early, the second public beta is available for download and installation. While more stable than developer builds, remember that beta software always carries some risk. The developer beta has already progressed further, adding even more features not yet in the public version. Reports also suggest iOS 26 could introduce a new live translation feature for AirPods.
However, not all devices will be eligible for this upgrade. Unlike last year, Apple is cutting support for several older iPhone models. If your device is not on the compatibility list, you will not be able to download iOS 26 when it launches this fall.
Here is a breakdown of which iPhones and iPads will support the new operating systems.
Incompatible iPhones with iOS 26
This year, support is ending for iPhone models first released in 2018. The following three devices will not be compatible with iOS 26.
iPhone XR
iPhone XS
iPhone XS Max
Compatible iPhones with iOS 26
According to Apple, the following iPhones will be eligible for the iOS 26 update. Essentially, if your iPhone was announced in 2019 or later, you will be able to upgrade.
This list includes iPhone SE second generation or later, 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, and the iPhone 16e.
Compatible iPads with iPadOS 26
The following iPad models, along with any new iPads released later this year, will be eligible to download iPadOS 26.
The list includes iPad Pro M4, iPad Pro 12.9‑inch third generation and later, iPad Pro 11‑inch first generation and later, iPad Air third generation and later including M2 and M3 models, iPad eighth generation and later including the A16 model, and iPad mini fifth generation and later including the A17 Pro model.
Using an Older Incompatible iPhone
You can continue using an older iPhone that does not support iOS 26. However, you will miss out on critical security updates, potentially leaving your device vulnerable to malware. Some apps may also stop functioning if they require a newer iOS version, and you will not have access to any of the new features.
iOS 26 Release Date
Apple typically releases its newest iOS version in mid-September, just a few days before new iPhone models go on sale. Based on last years schedule which saw iOS 18 arrive on September 16, a similar timeframe is expected for iOS 26. A confirmed release date will be announced at the iPhone event, anticipated for early September.
Notable iOS 26 Features
The update brings several exciting new features. The Liquid Glass design provides a comprehensive visual refresh for a more unified Apple experience. The Phone app is getting a redesign, consolidating contacts, recent calls, and voicemails onto a single screen and introducing a Hold Assist feature to notify you when a call center agent picks up.
Live Translate will allow for real-time translation during phone calls or text messages with someone speaking another language. Finally, a new polls feature in group messages will help streamline planning and decision-making among chat participants.
