Apple’s new and most exciting iPhone software update, iOS 26, is available now as a free download, and it’s the operating system I recommend for most people. Following several months of both developer and public betas, this final build introduces the new Liquid Glass interface, more consistent cross‑device integration… and a whole bunch of under‑the‑hood security tweaks.
If you’ve been waiting to update until the official release, then of course the big question is straightforward: does your iPhone qualify? Here’s the complete compatibility picture, and how to update safely, and what you can expect once you do.
Which iPhones can run iOS 26
Apple’s iOS 26 roll-out loosens support for previous A12-based products, and thus iPhone X, XS, XS Max, and XR no longer make the cut. The compatibility for A13 Bionic and higher began to bear fruit as well.
Compatible for: iPhone 11, 11 Pro and 11 Pro Max.
iPhone SE (2nd generation, 2020) and iPhone SE (3rd generation, 2022).
iPhone 12 mini, 12, 12 Pro and 12 Pro Max.
iPhone 13 mini, 13, 13 Pro and 13 Pro Max.
iPhone 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro and 14 Pro Max.
iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro and 15 Pro Max.
iPhone 16 series in all models.
iPhone 17 models at the base level and Air, Pro and Pro Max.
Not supported: iPhone X, XS, XS Max, XR, iPhone 8 and 8 Plus and first‑generation iPhone SE.
Apple usually supports its software for five to seven years. This evolution aligns with the track record of the platform, from desktop to laptop to tablet and now to smartphone — which has specific hardware needs (advanced on‑device intelligence, immersive systemwide visuals) that aren’t met when a vendor tries to make a device do double duty as an all-purpose workstation or gaming setup.
How to check and install the update
On your iPhone, navigate to Settings > General > Software Update. If you see iOS 26 as an option, tap Download and Install. If you’re on a beta profile, delete it first: Settings > General > VPN & Device Management.
Prior to updating, use iCloud (Settings > [your name] > iCloud > iCloud Backup) or a Mac with Finder to back up your device. Pick at least 8–10GB of free space; significant iOS upgrades often expect a few gigabytes to download and setup. Keep the battery charge above 50% or plugin your device to the charger while installation.
After rebooting, you may notice a brief period of background activity: photos will reindex, apps may reoptimize and Spotlight will rebuild. It usually settles down to normal performance and battery life after a day of usage.
What’s new, and why the stable build is important
iOS 26 brings Liquid Glass interface system-wide, with even more fluid motion, translucency and dynamic type that extends across iPhone SE and iPod touch to the newest iPhones.
“Expect nuanced, but ubiquitous changes, not big jarring ones.”
Stay on that stable release for a reason. Apple’s developer and public betas are intended to collect feedback and telemetry; the general release merges fixes for the most frequently occurring crashes, UI hiccups, and edge‑case network problems observed during testing. In previous cycles, Apple has made a habit of dialing down contentious UI shifts between beta and release according to what it saw from users—a reminder that patience tends to mean fewer headaches.
Another very good reason to upgrade is security. Platform security documention Apple’s platform security documentation Supporting rapid patching of kernel, WebKit, and memory-safety bugs, many of which become known to the National Vulnerability Database over the life of each iOS version. iOS 26 baseline contains fixes that were integrated during beta cycle and represents Apple RSR cadence.
When you leave your iPhone behind
But owners of unsupported models do have some options left. You are free to continue using your device as it is, but soon without security updates you will become unable to install many apps and further exposed to risk, especially in the browser.
Apple, the major carriers and retailers like Best Buy still have trade‑in programs that keep up demand for preowned iPhones that are in good condition. Consumer electronics resellers like Gazelle often cite higher iPhone retention values compared to many Android competitors, thanks to long support windows and parts availability. Quotes are determined by condition, storage and carrier status; the least-worn devices with original parts are worth the most.
If you are an upgrader, data transfer is easy: employ Quick Start to migrate wirelessly or via a cable between devices and then enter your iCloud credentials to reinstall app data.
After you are settled, make sure any iOS 26 features you care about — let’s say a redesigned widget experience, new camera APIs or updated accessibility tools — are enabled at Settings.
Bottom line
If you have an iPhone 11 or newer — or the 2020/2022 iPhone SE — you can upgrade to iOS 26 today. Back up first, set aside time for post‑update housekeeping and expect a less bumpy, erratic interface with the latest security measures. A trade‑in or resale of an older model can meaningfully offset the price of a supported iPhone while ensuring your data — and your day‑to‑day experience — stays current.