With the official release of iOS 26, many users are eager to explore its innovative features. However, if you haven’t received the update notification on your iPhone yet, you might be among the users with older models. The update introduces a sleek redesign known as “Liquid Glass” and enhances the ability to block spam calls, but only for compatible devices.
iOS 26 necessitates the power of the A13 Bionic chip or newer, meaning some popular older models, like the iPhone XS, XS Max, and XR, will miss out. Even though these models will continue to receive critical security updates for iOS 18, they won’t enjoy the fresh capabilities of iOS 26.
Compatible iPhone Models for iOS 26
If you’re wondering whether your device is eligible, the phones that support iOS 26 include:
- iPhone 15
- iPhone 15 Pro
- iPhone 15 Pro Max
- iPhone 16 models
- iPhone 17 models
Unfortunately, if your iPhone model is among those excluded this year, like the iPhone XS, XS Max, and XR, you’ll miss out on some groundbreaking features.
Apple Intelligence Features Limited to Newer Devices
While users on compatible devices will experience the overall design changes and enhancements, not all models will support Apple Intelligence. Features such as Genmoji, Image Playground, and the advanced Visual Intelligence search are exclusive to the following:
- iPhone 15 Pro and 15 Pro Max
- iPhone 16 models
- iPhone 17 models
For those on older devices, the update will still bring aesthetic improvements and everyday functionality, but the cutting-edge capabilities brought by Apple Intelligence will not be available.
Watch this: 26 More Things Hidden in iOS 26
05:27
Identifying Your iPhone Model
If you’re uncertain which iPhone model you have, simply navigate to Settings > General > About and check the Model Name. Devices not on the compatibility list will continue receiving essential iOS 18 security patches, but the exciting features of iOS 26 will remain out of reach.