Apple’s iOS 26 introduces a fresh “Liquid Glass” look and a new naming strategy that aligns software versions with the calendar year. The headline change is cosmetic, but the practical question for most people is simple: will your iPhone run it? Here’s the definitive guide to iOS 26 compatibility, with clear winners and the models that are left behind.
Every iPhone model that supports iOS 26
According to Apple’s compatibility list, iOS 26 is available to a wide range of recent devices. The newest iPhone 17 family ships with iOS 26 out of the box, while the models below are eligible to upgrade.
iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro, iPhone 11 Pro Max
iPhone SE (2nd generation) and iPhone SE (3rd generation)
iPhone 12 mini, iPhone 12, iPhone 12 Pro, iPhone 12 Pro Max
iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 13, 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 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, iPhone 16 Pro Max
Real-world tip: while all of these models can install iOS 26, certain advanced features may be limited to newer chips. Historically, Apple enables the most compute-heavy features (especially those using the Neural Engine for on-device AI) on the latest Pro-class silicon first, then extends capabilities where hardware allows.
Models that do not support the update
iOS 26 drops support for the iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, and iPhone XR. The iPhone X, iPhone 8, and iPhone 8 Plus—and all earlier models, including the first-generation iPhone SE—are also not eligible.
If you’re holding one of these devices, it will remain on its current iOS version. Apple typically provides security patches to older iOS branches for a period after a major release, as documented in its public security updates, but feature updates stop at the cutoff.
Why the cutoff moved to A13 and newer
The dividing line in this cycle is Apple’s A13 Bionic chip, introduced with the iPhone 11 series. That’s not arbitrary. Each annual platform release raises the baseline for graphics, machine learning, and memory bandwidth. Features tied to on-device intelligence, real-time rendering, and advanced camera pipelines lean heavily on newer Neural Engine and GPU architectures.
Analysts who track Apple’s support windows note that the company generally sustains iPhones for five to seven years of major updates, depending on silicon capabilities. With A12-based phones (XS/XR) aging out, the iOS 26 lineup consolidates around hardware that can reliably deliver the new UI effects and system-level ML without compromising performance or battery life.
Beta vs. general release: what to expect
The developer and public betas of iOS 26 are designed to shake out bugs and polish the interface before the general release. Betas can be rough around the edges—expect app crashes, battery quirks, and occasional UI changes as Apple absorbs feedback from testers and accessibility advocates.
A good reminder from recent history: when Apple subtly shifted the in-call End button during the iOS 17 beta, user feedback prompted a rethink before the wide release. The same loop—iterate, test, refine—applies to iOS 26, so most people should wait for the stable build unless they’re comfortable troubleshooting.
What to do if your iPhone misses iOS 26
Not eligible? You still have options. Trade-in programs from Apple, major carriers, and large retailers can offset the cost of a newer device. Independent resale trackers like SellCell and research groups such as CIRP have repeatedly found that iPhones hold more of their value than most Android phones, especially if the screen and cameras are intact and battery health is decent.
If you plan to keep an unsupported model for a while, focus on security basics: enable a strong passcode, use two-factor authentication for your Apple ID, keep critical apps updated, and review app permissions. Even without new features, those steps meaningfully reduce risk.
Bottom line
iOS 26 supports iPhone 11 and newer, plus the second- and third‑generation iPhone SE. The XS/XR generation and everything before it remain on their current software track. If your device makes the cut, you’ll get the Liquid Glass makeover and under-the-hood improvements; if it doesn’t, it’s a sensible moment to weigh trade-in value against the benefits of a modern chip, longer support runway, and the full iOS 26 feature set.