In WWDC 2025, Apple unveiled its new OS recurrence for iPhones-iOS 16. The OS upgrade brings a bundle of fresh visual design and smart features throughout the system. With the expected public beta in the coming weeks, updates are now available for developers. The stable release of iOS 26 is expected to come up with the launch of new iPhones. However, not all iPhones will be compatible to receive iOS 26 updates.

Apple, with the new iOS 26 Apple, has introduced a redigned user interface called Apple calls “liquid glass”, which changes the presence of the system menu, widgets, notifications and lock screens. Apple states with this new UI look, it wants to give more depth and speed to the elements in the OS, although the main layout of the home screen remains the same. Apps such as photos and cameras have also found new layouts focused on ease of use and stability.

This update expands support for Apple Intelligence, the company’s on-device AI framework, with powers such as powers writing equipment, smart messages, image generation and system-wide tips. However, access to these features depends a lot on the iPhone model. Large iOS26 updates will require some system configurations that are not able to host old iPhones.

iPhones who will support iOS 26

According to Apple, the iOS 26 A13 will be available on bayonic chip or new -driven equipment. So here is a list of iPhone models which are eligible for updates:

• iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro, iPhone 11 Pro Max
• iPhone SE (Second generation)
• iPhone 12, 12 Mini, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max
• iPhone 13, 13 Mini, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max
• iPhone SE (Third generation)
• iPhone 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max
• iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max
• iPhone 16e, including iPhone 16E

Old iPhone models including iPhone XR, iPhone XS, and iPhone XS Max will no longer receive major updates including new iOS 26. However, these will continue to work on iPhones iOS 18 and get a safety patches for a limited time.

All supported iPhones will not get iOS 26 features

Meanwhile, although many will run iPhones iOS 26, only a few apple will support the full set of intelligence features. These include characteristics such as generating images, summarizing the material and more advanced personal accessories. According to Apple, iPhones require an A17 Pro chip or later to run the AI ​​feature, which means that only the following iPhones have complete access to Apple Intelligence.

• iPhone 15 Pro and 15 Pro Max
• iPhone 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, 16 Pro Max, and 16e

All other supported iPhones will receive visual and system-wide updates in iOS 26, but without the new AI tool.

iOS 26 release timeline

With the unveiling of iOS 26, Apple also released the developer beta of its new software including iOS 26, iPad 26, Macos 26 and others. The company is expected to release public beta in July. Stable release is expected to come up with the iPhone 17 launch in September 2025.