Apple's WWDC 2025 event has just ended and as usual, the focus is on the new iOS operating system for iPhone. As rumored, Apple has ignored iOS 19-25 versions and jumped to iOS 26.
This update not only has a completely new Liquid Glass design - considered Apple's biggest face change in many years - but also brings a series of improvements in user experience.
However, what most users are concerned about is still: Can their iPhone upgrade to iOS 26?
3 iPhone models will not be updated to iOS 26
Unlike last year when Apple did not remove any models from the support list, this year, three 2018 iPhone models have been officially " removed from the list": iPhone XR; iPhone XS; iPhone XS Max.
This means that devices launched in 2018 or earlier will not be able to install iOS 26 next fall.
List of iPhones compatible with iOS 26
According to confirmation from Apple's official website, the following iPhone models will be supported for upgrading:
iPhone SE (from the 2nd generation onwards).
iPhone 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max.
iPhone 12, 12 mini, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max.
iPhone 13, 13 mini, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max.
iPhone 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max.
iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max.
iPhone 16e, 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, 16 Pro Max.
If users own an iPhone model launched in 2019 or later, they can rest assured to welcome iOS 26.
What about still using the old iPhone?
You can continue to use unsupported devices, but note: Apple will not release security patches for these devices anymore, leaving your device at high risk of being attacked. Some apps may also be disabled if a new iOS version is required.
When will iOS 26 be officially released?
According to tradition, Apple usually launches a new iOS in mid-September, right before the launch of the new iPhone. Last year, iOS 18 was released on September 16. iOS 26 is expected to have a similar schedule, with the official release date announced at the iPhone 17 event in early September this year.
