iOS 26: Which iPhones Get the Upgrade?

Apple's iOS 26 is coming this fall, promising a significant upgrade for your iPhone's operating system. The buzz is all about the visual refresh, dubbed "Liquid Glass"—think of it as Windows Vista, but executed much better! We've had the chance to test-drive it for two weeks, and you can check out our detailed hands-on iOS 26 preview. Feeling adventurous? Dive right in by downloading and installing the public beta. This version builds upon the developer beta (which recently hit beta 5) and offers a few extra flashy features not yet available to the public.

Just remember, while the public beta is stable and open to everyone, there's always a bit of risk involved with beta software. Not ready to upgrade your smartphone this year? No worries! We'll help you figure out if your phone will be able to run iOS 26.

📱 Which iPhones Get the Upgrade? 🤔

Apple didn't exclude any iPhones from its compatibility list last year, but that's changing in 2025. A few models are getting left behind this time. Last year, the iPhone 8 series and the iPhone X were the last to get the boot, and this year, it's the turn of the 2018 models. If you have an ineligible device, you won't be able to download iOS 26 when it drops this fall.

Let's dive into the specifics and find out which iPhones will support iOS 26 this year.

⚠️ iPhones Not Compatible with iOS 26

• ✅ iPhone XR
• ✅ iPhone XS
• ✅ iPhone XS Max

🎉 iPhones Compatible with iOS 26

Apple hasn't officially revealed all the details about iOS 26 yet, including which new iPhones they might be releasing this fall (rumors are swirling around iPhone 17!). But based on their current site information, here's a list of iPhones that will likely get iOS 26.

• ✅ iPhone SE (second generation or later)
• ✅ iPhone 11
• ✅ iPhone 11 Pro
• ✅ iPhone 11 Pro Max
• ✅ iPhone 12
• ✅ iPhone 12 mini
• ✅ iPhone 12 Pro
• ✅ iPhone 12 Pro Max
• ✅ iPhone 13
• ✅ iPhone 13 mini
• ✅ iPhone 13 Pro
• ✅ iPhone 13 Pro Max
• ✅ iPhone 14
• ✅ iPhone 14 Plus
• ✅ iPhone 14 Pro
• ✅ iPhone 14 Pro Max
• ✅ iPhone 15
• ✅ iPhone 15 Plus
• ✅ iPhone 15 Pro
• ✅ iPhone 15 Pro Max
• ✅ iPhone 16e
• ✅ iPhone 16
• ✅ iPhone 16 Plus
• ✅ iPhone 16 Pro
• ✅ iPhone 16 Pro Max

🤔 What if I Don't Want to Buy a New iPhone? 🤔

If you prefer to stick with your older iPhone that won't support iOS 26, that's perfectly fine. However, keep in mind that you'll miss out on essential security updates which could leave your phone vulnerable to malware and other threats. Additionally, some apps might stop working if they require a specific version of iOS or higher. Of course, you'll also be missing out on all the cool new features iOS 26 has to offer.

📅 When Will iOS 26 Be Available?

Apple typically releases its latest iOS in mid-September, just a few days before the new iPhones hit store shelves. Last year, iOS 18 was released on Monday, Sept. 16. Expect an official confirmation of the release date at Apple's iPhone 17 event, expected in early September.

🌟 iOS 26 Features We're Excited About 🌟

✨ Liquid Glass Design

Your home screen is getting a makeover with new app icons, including dark mode and all-clear options. You'll also notice buttons with a new floating design. Liquid Glass aims to create a more cohesive look across all Apple operating systems.

📞 Phone App Redesign

Finally, you'll be able to scroll through contacts, recent calls, and voicemail messages all on one screen. A new feature called Hold Assist will notify you when an agent comes on the line, so you can avoid listening to endless elevator music.

💬 Live Translate

iOS 26 brings the ability to have conversations via phone call or text message with someone who speaks a different language. Live Translate will translate your conversation in real time.

💬 Polls Feature

Coming to group messages in the Messages app, chat members will be able to create polls. No more endless back-and-forth debates!