Is it possible for an iPhone to update to iOS 26? Let's review the compatible models.
Apple has announced the upcoming release of iOS 26, a significant update for various Apple devices. The new software promises a 'Liquid Glass' look and numerous new features, set to be available for a wide range of iPhones, iPads, Macs, Apple Watch, and Apple TV.
iPhone users eager to try out the public beta version of iOS 26 can do so in July. However, it's advised against downloading the beta software if you depend on your iPhone for vital communication, as it may contain bugs.
The eligible iPhone models for iOS 26 include the iPhone 16e, iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, iPhone 16 Pro Max, iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, iPhone 14 Pro, iPhone 14 Pro Max, iPhone 13, iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 13 Pro, iPhone 13 Pro Max, iPhone 12, iPhone 12 mini, iPhone 12 Pro, iPhone 12 Pro Max, iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro, iPhone 11 Pro Max, iPhone SE (2nd generation), and iPhone SE (3rd generation).
Notably, iOS 26 drops support entirely for the iPhone XR, iPhone XS, and iPhone XS Max, all released in 2018. These models will not receive iOS 26 but will continue to get security updates for a while longer.
Advanced features related to Apple Intelligence and AI are limited to the iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, and all iPhone 16 series devices. This list will also extend to future iPhone 17 models when they launch later this year.
The final version of iOS 26 will be released in 'Fall', likely in September. Other Apple devices might also receive a major software upgrade alongside iPadOS 26 and watchOS 26.
It's worth noting that three iPhone models are not eligible for the iOS 26 update as they received the iOS 18 update last year. The new software update supports six generations of iPhones, dating back to 2019. Apple announced the release of iOS 26 at WWDC 2025.
[1] [Apple's Official Announcement](URL_for_Apple's_Official_Announcement) [2] [iOS 26 Compatibility List](URL_for_iOS_26_Compatibility_List) [3] [iOS 26 Features and Limitations](URL_for_iOS_26_Features_and_Limitations) [4] [iOS 26 Beta Warning](URL_for_iOS_26_Beta_Warning) [5] [iOS 26 Security Updates for Older Models](URL_for_iOS_26_Security_Updates_for_Older_Models)
- With the upcoming release of iOS 26, smartphone users will be excited to learn that the latest update will be compatible with a wide range of iPhone models, such as the iPhone 16e, iPhone 16, and iPhone 11 Pro, among others.
- The long-awaited iOS 26 update will also offer extensive new features and a 'Liquid Glass' look, but it's recommended to avoid installing the public beta version if you rely heavily on your smartphone due to potential bugs, and remember to check the compatibility list for your specific model.
