iOS 26 Supported Devices List
1. Introduction
Apple has officially revealed the iOS 26 supported iPhones list, confirming which devices can enjoy the new update.
The list of iPhones that support iOS 26 has been formally released by Apple, offering millions of users exciting new features and enhancements. This update is important because iOS 26 promises improved security, faster performance, and a number of new tools to further improve the iPhone experience. Not all iPhones will be able to receive the update, though, as Apple has discontinued support for some older models in addition to these enhancements. The iOS 26 compatibility list is essential for users who are anxious to find out if their device qualifies.
Check out Apple’s list of all iPhones that support iOS 26 if you’re unsure if yours will receive the update. The list of iPhone models supported by iOS 26 excludes a few older models, so users must confirm that their device is compatible.
Wondering if your phone made it to the iOS 26 supported iPhones list?
2. Key Highlights of iOS 26
The list of iPhones that support iOS 26 offers more than just compatibility; it also unlocks more than 15 fascinating new features that improve the iPhone experience. Apple has packed iOS 26 with significant updates, ranging from better performance and more intelligent AI integration to improved privacy controls and redesigned widgets. We will briefly discuss the key features that make this update essential for eligible iPhone users, even though we are unable to go into detail about every feature here.
The iOS 26 supported iPhones list drops some older models, making it essential for users to verify their device’s compatibility.
Check the official iOS 26 supported iPhones list before updating.
3. List of iPhones Supported by iOS 26
Apple has officially released the iOS 26 supported iPhones list, and the new update brings some important changes to device compatibility. Here’s the complete list of iPhones that can run iOS 26:
- iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max
- iPhone 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max
- iPhone 13 mini, 13, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max
- iPhone 12 mini, 12, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max
- iPhone 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max
- iPhone XS, XS Max, and iPhone XR (new minimum supported models)
- iPhone SE (2nd generation and later)
No longer supported: iPhone 8, 8 Plus, and iPhone X have officially been dropped, meaning they won’t receive the iOS 26 update.
Tech enthusiasts are eagerly exploring the iOS 26 supported iPhones list to see if their iPhone qualifies for the latest features.
The iOS 26 supported iPhones list confirms compatibility for newer models
4. 15 Exciting Updates in iOS 26
Break this into sub-points:
4.1. AI-Powered Siri Enhancements
4.2. Customizable Lock Screen Widgets
4.3. Smarter Notifications & Grouping
4.4. Health App Upgrades with Mood Tracking
4.5. Live Translation in Messages
4.6. Offline Apple Maps
4.7. Advanced App Privacy Reports
4.8. Smarter Battery Optimization
4.9. Improved Photos App with AI Albums
4.10. Dynamic Wallpaper Engine
4.11. Redesigned Control Center
4.12. New Journal App Integration
4.13. Enhanced Face ID in Landscape Mode
4.14. Safari AI Summaries for Articles
4.15. Universal Clipboard Upgrades
Not all old iPhones are on the iOS 26 supported iPhones list
Before planning an upgrade, reviewing the iOS 26 supported iPhones list will help you decide whether it’s time for a new device.
The iOS 26 supported iPhones list drops some older models, making it essential for users to verify their device’s compatibility.
Apple has officially revealed the iOS 26 supported iPhones list, confirming which devices can enjoy the new update.
iPhones That Won’t Get iOS 26
With the release of the iOS 26 supported iPhones list, Apple has also confirmed which older models are losing update support. Unfortunately, the following devices won’t get iOS 26:
- iPhone X
- iPhone 8 and 8 Plus
- iPhone SE (1st generation)
For what reason were they dropped?
The sophisticated features, performance requirements, and security improvements of iOS 26 cannot be fully supported by the outdated hardware these models are running on. When a device no longer satisfies the performance requirements for a seamless experience, Apple usually stops supporting it.
Now, what can users do?
You can safely keep using your current iOS version if you own one of these unsupported iPhones, but upgrading to a newer iPhone from the compatibility list is the best course of action for long-term security and feature access.
iPhone users are eager to see the iOS 26 supported iPhones list.
How to Check If Your iPhone Supports iOS 26
Not sure if your iPhone is on the iOS 26 supported iPhones list? Here’s a simple way to check:
- Open Settings on your iPhone.
- Go to General.
- Tap on Software Update.
- If your device supports iOS 26, you’ll see the update available for download.
Pro Tip: Before updating, always backup your data using iCloud or a computer. This ensures your photos, apps, and files stay safe in case anything goes wrong during the update process.
Should You Upgrade Immediately?
If your device is on the iOS 26 supported iPhones list, you might be wondering whether to update right away.
Pros of Updating Immediately:
- Access to all the 15+ new features and performance improvements.
- Stronger security with Apple’s latest patches.
- Compatibility with upcoming apps optimized for iOS 26.
Cons of Updating Right Away:
- Early versions may have minor bugs or app compatibility issues.
- Some users on older models (like iPhone XS or XR) might notice slight performance drops initially.
Our Advice:
If you own a newer iPhone (12 series or later), upgrading right away is a smart move. But if you’re using an older yet supported model, consider waiting a few weeks for Apple to release stability patches before updating.
Conclusion
The list of iPhones that support iOS 26 demonstrates that Apple is continuing to release innovative new updates while discontinuing some older models. This update, if compatible with your iPhone, offers over 15 robust features that improve the overall user experience, security, and performance of your device.
Before updating, make sure to check your compatibility and back up your data for a smooth transition.
Now we’d love to hear from you — Which iOS 26 feature are you most excited about? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is iOS 26 the release date?
No, iOS 26 is not a release date; it is the version number of Apple’s mobile operating system. The release date will be announced separately, usually during Apple’s annual event in September.
Which iPhones will get iOS 26?
Based on Apple’s usual update policy, iOS 26 is expected to support:
iPhone 15 series
iPhone 14 series
iPhone 13 series
iPhone 12 series
iPhone 11 series (likely)
Older devices such as iPhone X and below may be dropped from support.
Is iOS 26 available now?
No, the stable version of iOS 26 is not available yet. Only developer beta and possibly public beta versions are expected to be available for testing.
Why iOS 26 and not iOS 19?
Apple does not release updates sequentially by year. The numbering reflects their internal roadmap. After iOS 17, Apple skipped directly to higher numbers for future planning and branding purposes (like macOS did in the past).
How to get iOS 26 today?
You can get iOS 26 by enrolling in the Apple Developer Program or joining the Apple Beta Software Program, which gives you early access to beta builds.
Is the iPhone 11 getting iOS 26?
Yes, as of now, the iPhone 11 series is expected to support iOS 26, though this will be confirmed when Apple publishes the official compatibility list.
Who will all get iOS 18?
iOS 18 was released earlier and supports most devices from iPhone XR and newer, ensuring wide coverage.
Why is iOS 18 not available on iPhone?
If iOS 18 is unavailable on a specific iPhone, it’s likely because that model is too old to meet Apple’s performance and security requirements.
How to get iOS 26 beta?
To get the beta:
Go to Apple’s Beta Program page
Sign in with your Apple ID
Download and install the configuration profile
Update via Settings → General → Software Update
Has iOS 26 public beta been released?
As of now, only the developer beta may be out. The public beta usually arrives a few weeks after the developer beta launch.
How to get iOS 26 early?
Public beta launched in mid July 2025 for users enrolled in Apple’s Beta Software Program; full rollout expected September 2025, likely alongside the iPhone 17 launch.
