Apple has officially released iOS 26, bringing new features, performance improvements, and security updates. However, not every iPhone will get the update. With this release, Apple has dropped support for a few older models, meaning only devices with the A13 Bionic chip (iPhone 11 and newer, plus iPhone SE 2nd gen and later) are eligible.
iPhones That Support iOS 26
| iPhone Model | Supported? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone SE (2nd gen, 3rd gen) | ✅ | SE 1st gen not supported |
| iPhone 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max | ✅ | Oldest supported series |
| iPhone 12, 12 Mini, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max | ✅ | Full support |
| iPhone 13, 13 Mini, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max | ✅ | Full support |
| iPhone 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max | ✅ | Full support |
| iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max | ✅ | Full support |
| iPhone 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, 16 Pro Max | ✅ | Full support |
| iPhone 17, 17 Pro, 17 Pro Max, 17 Air | ✅ | Latest 2025 lineup |
| iPhone XS, XS Max, XR | ❌ | Dropped with iOS 26 |
Key Takeaways
- Minimum supported iPhone: iPhone 11 and iPhone SE (2nd gen).
- Dropped models: iPhone XS, XS Max, and XR (all previously supported with iOS 18).
- Latest supported models: iPhone 17 lineup (including the new iPhone 17 Air).
If you’re using an iPhone older than the iPhone 11 or SE (2nd gen), you’ll need to upgrade to enjoy iOS 26.
Biggest New Features in iOS 26
Here are the highlights of what’s new in iOS 26:
1. Apple Intelligence Expansion
- Smarter AI tools integrated across Messages, Mail, and Notes.
- Context-aware suggestions for writing, summarizing, and scheduling.
- On-device processing for privacy, with cloud fallback for heavier tasks.
2. Customizable Lock Screen 2.0
- More widgets, interactive controls, and live activity tracking directly from the lock screen.
- Ability to set different lock screens for Focus modes.
3. Messages Upgrades
- Richer reactions, scheduled messages, and smarter auto-replies.
- AI-powered emoji and sticker generation.
4. Siri Overhaul
- Faster, more conversational Siri with better multitasking.
- Can now handle multi-step requests in one command.
5. Health & Wellness Enhancements
- Sleep coaching, stress monitoring, and expanded mental health tracking.
- Integration with Apple Vision Pro for immersive health insights.
6. Performance & Battery Boosts
- Optimized for A13 Bionic and newer chips.
- More efficient background activity management for better battery life.
Key Takeaways
- Minimum supported iPhone: iPhone 11 and iPhone SE (2nd gen).
- Dropped models: iPhone XS, XS Max, and XR.
- Most exciting features: Apple Intelligence upgrades, customizable lock screens, and a smarter Siri.
If you’re on an older iPhone, this might be the right time to consider upgrading — not just for the new features, but also for continued security support.
Biggest New Features in iOS 26
Here are the highlights of what’s new in iOS 26:
1. Apple Intelligence Expansion
- Smarter AI tools integrated across Messages, Mail, and Notes.
- Context-aware suggestions for writing, summarizing, and scheduling.
- On-device processing for privacy, with cloud fallback for heavier tasks.
2. Customizable Lock Screen 2.0
- More widgets, interactive controls, and live activity tracking directly from the lock screen.
- Ability to set different lock screens for Focus modes.
3. Messages Upgrades
- Richer reactions, scheduled messages, and smarter auto-replies.
- AI-powered emoji and sticker generation.
4. Siri Overhaul
- Faster, more conversational Siri with better multitasking.
- Can now handle multi-step requests in one command.
5. Health & Wellness Enhancements
- Sleep coaching, stress monitoring, and expanded mental health tracking.
- Integration with Apple Vision Pro for immersive health insights.
6. Performance & Battery Boosts
- Optimized for A13 Bionic and newer chips.
- More efficient background activity management for better battery life.
