iOS 26 compatibility list: supported iPhones
Apple just dropped iOS 26, and iPhone fans all over the world are SO excited! With every new iOS update comes new features, faster performance, and tons of fun stuff. But wait… will your iPhone actually work with iOS 26? That’s the big question. Don’t worry—we’ve got the answer right here.
This guide will walk you through which iPhones are compatible with iOS 26. We’ll also chat about why some iPhones didn’t make the cut this year. Oh—and we’ll keep it simple, fun, and easy to follow. Let’s jump in!
🚀 What is iOS 26, Anyway?
iOS 26 is the latest version of the iPhone operating system. That’s the software that runs your phone. It’s like the brain of your iPhone.
With iOS 26, Apple has added:
- Smarter Siri: She finally gets what you’re saying!
- A refreshed Control Center: So much cleaner and easier to use.
- Enhanced widgets: Widgets now do more than just look pretty.
- Battery saver mode 2.0: Now that’s what we call staying alive!
Sounds cool, right? Absolutely. But let’s figure out if your phone’s invited to the party.
📱 iPhones That Support iOS 26
Here’s the list you’ve been waiting for. These iPhones are fully compatible with iOS 26. If you have one of these models, you’re all set!
- iPhone 15 Pro Max
- iPhone 15 Pro
- iPhone 15 Plus
- iPhone 15
- iPhone 14 Pro Max
- iPhone 14 Pro
- iPhone 14 Plus
- iPhone 14
- iPhone 13 Pro Max
- iPhone 13 Pro
- iPhone 13
- iPhone 13 Mini
- iPhone 12 Pro Max
- iPhone 12 Pro
- iPhone 12
- iPhone 12 Mini
- iPhone SE (3rd generation)
That’s a pretty solid list. If your iPhone is on it, then congratulations! You can unlock all the fun of iOS 26.
⛔ iPhones That Didn’t Make the Cut
Not all devices were lucky this time. Apple had to say goodbye to some older favorites. Unfortunately, these models do not support iOS 26:
- iPhone 11 Pro Max
- iPhone 11 Pro
- iPhone 11
- iPhone XS
- iPhone XR
- iPhone X
- iPhone 8 Plus
- iPhone 8
- iPhone SE (2nd generation)
If you’re rocking one of those, don’t worry. Your phone still works great with iOS 25—it just won’t get the newest bells and whistles anymore. Maybe it’s time for an upgrade? 😉
🧠 Why These iPhones Got Cut
You might be wondering, “Why can’t my trusty iPhone 11 get iOS 26?” Great question!
iOS 26 has some features that need more powerful hardware to run smoothly. Things like AI image generation, real-time translation, and next-gen Face ID aren’t just software tricks. They demand fast chips and lots of memory.
Older iPhones simply can’t keep up. Apple prefers keeping your experience smooth and fast—so they pick and choose which models can handle each update.
It’s all about performance, baby.
📦 iOS 26 Features You’ll Love
If your iPhone is compatible, here are some things you can look forward to:
- Live voicemail transcription: See what your voicemail says without listening.
- Interactive lock screen widgets: Control things without unlocking.
- Smart auto-replies: Your iPhone can text for you—kind of like magic!
- Floating video mode: Watch shows while scrolling through texts. Multitasking, unlocked.
- Security boost: iOS 26 has top-level privacy features to protect your data.
Apple is going big with artificial intelligence this year. That means the more recent your iPhone, the more powerful these features will feel.
👀 How to Check Your iPhone Model
Not sure which iPhone you have? It happens! Here’s how to find out:
- Open the Settings app.
- Tap General.
- Then tap About.
- Look for the Model Name. That’s your iPhone’s name!
Once you know your model, scroll back up and check the compatibility list. Easy!
🧳 Getting Ready to Update
If your phone supports iOS 26, here’s a quick checklist before you hit Update:
- Back up your iPhone using iCloud or iTunes. Just in case.
- Charge your battery—you’ll need at least 50% or plug it in while updating.
- Have Wi-Fi. Updates can be big, so cellular won’t cut it.
Then go to Settings > General > Software Update, and let iOS 26 do its thing. 🚀
🗓️ When Can You Get iOS 26?
Apple usually rolls out new iOS updates in the fall, just after announcing new iPhones. But developer and public beta versions are available earlier in the year.
So, if you’re eager, you can install the beta and test iOS 26 early. Just be prepared—beta versions can be buggy. It’s like eating the cookie dough before it’s baked. Tasty, but kind of risky.
❤️ Final Thoughts
iOS 26 is packed with exciting stuff. But not every iPhone gets to come along for the ride. If your iPhone made the cut—awesome! You’re all set to enjoy the latest Apple has to offer.
If not, don’t stress too much. Your phone still works fine, and there’s always next year. Or maybe it’s time to treat yourself to a new iPhone?
Thanks for reading and happy updating! 🍏