iOS 26 Compatibility and Features: What You Need to Know

All the new features iOS 26 has to offer.

Apple’s WWDC 2025 keynote event is already in the rearview mirror, and, as usual, the event was dominated by the changes coming to the iPhone’s operating system later this year. The reports of a numbering scheme change were confirmed — iOS 18 is skipping to iOS 26 — but there was a comprehensive list of usability changes showcased, as well as the new Liquid Glass design, which appears to be Apple’s largest visual update in years. However, the most pressing question remains: Will my iPhone be able to run iOS 26?

Last year, Apple did not remove any iPhones from its eligibility list, but that is not the case for 2025 — a few models are being excluded this time. The iPhone 8 models and the iPhone X were the last to be discontinued in 2023, and this year, the 2018 models are being left behind. If you own an ineligible device, you will not be able to download iOS 26 when it becomes available this fall.

We will clarify which iPhones will support iOS 26 this year. To see what is coming with the latest OS and more, here’s everything announced at Apple’s WWDC event today.

These Three iPhones Won’t Be Compatible with iOS 26

Unlike last year, several iPhone models will not be eligible to download the newest iOS when it debuts this fall. The following trio of models, first released in 2018, will not be part of the iOS 26 rollout:

  • iPhone XR

  • iPhone XS

  • iPhone XS Max

iPhones Compatible with iOS 26

While we do not yet know the new iPhones Apple will be releasing this fall — although there are iPhone 17 rumors — we do know, according to Apple’s site, that the phones listed below will be compatible with iOS 26. Essentially, if you have an iPhone that was announced in 2019 or later, you are in the clear:

  • 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 16e

  • iPhone 16

  • iPhone 16 Plus

  • iPhone 16 Pro

  • iPhone 16 Pro Max

What If I Don’t Want to Buy a New iPhone?

If you prefer to continue using your older iPhone that is not supported by iOS 26, that is acceptable. However, you will miss out on security updates, which could potentially expose your phone to malware and other threats. Additionally, some apps may cease to function if they require a certain version of iOS or later. Furthermore, you will not be able to access the latest features that iOS 26 offers.

When Will iOS 26 Become Available?

Apple typically rolls out its latest iOS in mid-September, just a few days before the new iPhones become available in stores. Last year, iOS 18 was released on Monday, September 16. Expect a confirmation of the release date at the iPhone 17 event, anticipated in early September.

iOS 26 Features We’re Excited About

Liquid Glass design: Your home screen is getting revamped with new app icons, including dark mode and all-clear options. You will also notice buttons with a new floating design. Liquid Glass was designed to create a more cohesive experience across all of Apple’s operating systems.

Phone App Redesign: You will finally be able to scroll through contacts, recent calls, and voicemail messages all on one screen. It also introduces a new feature called Hold Assist, which will notify you when an agent comes to the phone, allowing you to avoid the elevator music.

Live Translate: iOS 26 will enable conversations via phone call or text message with someone who speaks another language. Live Translate will translate your conversation in real time.

Polls Feature: Coming to group messages in the Messages app, chat members will be able to create polls. This feature can help prevent the influx of 30+ messages when deciding which restaurant to meet at this weekend.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/mobile/apple-is-releasing-ios-26-this-fall-will-your-iphone-be-compatible-191854628.html?src=rss

Source: Original Article