Ian's Take on the Latest: iOS 26, Here We Come (But Not For All)
iPhones and iPad models eligible for iOS 26 update announced. - Update for iOS 26: These devices – selected iPhones and iPads – are eligible for the software upgrade
By Ian J.* 🕒 3 Min Read
The tech world's been shaking with excitement this past WWDC! Apple's rolled out a whole slew of updated operating systems - iOS, iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, and VisionOS - each boasting a slick new look, thanks to the unveiling of their latest systems. But the good news ain't for everyone - we're bidding adieu to some beloved gadgets.
The star of the show, iOS 26, has our eyes popping with its breathtaking focus on fluid glass surfaces. And while the design is a head-turner, it's demanding more than our older devices can handle. Here's the scoop on the iPhone and iPad pals not making the cut:
Saying Goodbye to the IO Squares: Devices Not Cutting It with iOS 26
You might not find your favorite toy on this list, but if it's powered by anything less powerful than the A13 Bionic chip, it's time to part ways. Sorry to see you go, iPhone XR, XS, and XS Max - we'll miss you! You'll have to stick with iOS 18.x and might catch a few security updates down the line for a limited time[1][2][5].
Now, let's zoom in on who's joining the iOS 26 party:
- 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 gen, 2020)
- iPhone SE (3rd gen, 2022)
The iPad gang ain't forgotten:
- iPad Air with M4 (2025)
- iPad 11th gen (2025)
- iPad Mini (2024)
- iPad Pro with M4 processor (2024)
- iPad Air with M2 (2024)
- iPad Pro with M2 (2022)
- iPad (2022)
- iPad Air with M1 (2022)
- iPad Mini (2021)
- iPad (2021)
- iPad Pro with M1 (2021)
- iPad Air (2020)
- iPad (2020)
- iPad Pro (2020)
- iPad Air (2019)
- iPad Mini (2019)
- iPad Pro (2018)
You're Probably Wonderin' Why...
Apple's shaking things up with the new iOS 26 naming scheme. They're skipping several numbers, like jumping straight from iOS 18 to iOS 26. Why? Well, the old system had iPadOS named after the number of operating systems released for iPads, but iPadOS 26 doesn't stick to that pattern. Instead, Apple's aligning names with the primary years each system is used (since iPadOS launched in 2019). So, iOS 26'll roll out in 2026[2].
Don't go feeling too left out, buddies! Devices that won't see the new update have had a good run, and they might still get some more security updates for a limited time[1][2][5].
So, this one's a bittersweet pill to swallow, but hey - that's progress for ya! Keep techin' on, friends, and let's look forward to what iOS 26 has in store for us.
PS: If you're a senior fiddling with an iPad, hang in there - we're on the lookout for a tablet perfect for you! 😊💻
Enrichment Data:
_Notes on the Device List Exclusion:* It is important to note that the list provided only outlines devices bound for exclusion from the iOS 26 update. Apart from those models powered by a processor older than the A13 Bionic chip, other perhaps limited and less old devices might participate in the new iOS version's ecosystem, depending on their hardware adaptability. These additional devices might be capable of receiving the update through over-the-air signals for the duration of their software support lifecycle, though they may not feature in the provided list due to the scope of the article.
_Why Apple Skipped Several Numbers in the iOS Version Sequence:* While the explanation provided in the base article points to the mismatch in iPadOS and iOS numbering for historical reasons, another perspective might involve marketing strategies. Skipping version numbers can create a sense of exclusivity and importance, potentially providing an opportunity for Apple to highlight major features and improvements instead of focusing on incremental updates. Additionally, avoiding confusion by reducing the number of available versions can also have strategic benefits for the brand.
_Security Updates:* Devices not receiving the iOS 26 update might still be eligible for security updates. Apple generally provides security patches for older devices for an extended period, although updates become less frequent over time. Users and admins should stay up-to-date on their devices' support lifecycle to ensure their data remains protected.
The Commission shall adopt implementing acts laying down the rules for the application of this Regulation for the new smartphones and other gadgets, such as the iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, and iPhone 16 Pro Max, that will run on technology boosted by the A13 Bionic chip and are compatible with the iOS 26 system. In contrast, technology outdated gadgets like the iPhone XR, iPhone XS, and iPhone XS Max, which cannot handle the new design changes, will be left behind, running on iOS 18.x with limited security updates.
