• Source:JND
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At WWDC 2025, Apple introduced the latest software update, iOS 26, bringing a range of new features and improvements to the iPhone lineup. However, unlike previous years, not every iPhone that supported the last update will be eligible this time.

While iOS 18 supported all iPhones running iOS 17, Apple has decided to exclude three models from the iOS 26 update:

  • iPhone XS
  • iPhone XS Max
  • iPhone XR

These models will no longer receive the newest iOS version, marking a shift in Apple’s update policy.

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iPhones Eligible for iOS 26

The good news is that many recent and some older models will still get the update. Here’s the full list:

  • 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
  • iPhone SE (2nd generation and newer)

AI Features Limited to Newer Models

One important note is that the AI-driven features in iOS 26 will only be supported on the iPhone 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max, and all iPhone 16 models. This includes enhancements like Live Translation and other Apple Intelligence capabilities.

Other models, including the iPhone 15 and all older supported devices, will receive the update but won’t have access to these advanced AI functions.

What to Expect from iOS 26

Beyond compatibility, iOS 26 brings a fresh new design called Liquid Glass, which introduces a sleek, translucent look across navigation, widgets, and app icons, creating a more unified and modern experience.

There are also improvements in communication apps like Phone and Messages, with features such as a unified call interface, call screening for unknown callers, custom backgrounds in messages, and the ability to create polls with friends.

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The update also enhances continuity between iPhone and Mac, allowing the Phone app to be used on Mac and showing Live Activities directly on the Mac screen.

If you’re considering whether your device will support iOS 26 or want to know more about what’s coming, this breakdown covers the essentials. For those with older devices, it might be time to start thinking about an upgrade if you want the latest features Apple has to offer.