Apple jumped from iOS 18 straight to iOS 26, which was announced this Monday (9th). However, some devices are expected to miss out on the new update.
Apple’s operating system followed a yearly progression since the first iOS was launched with the first iPhone in 2007. Then in 2024, it released iOS 18.
Now, it seems Apple changed the versioning so that the system version corresponds to the last two digits of the year following its release.
That’s why the new iOS is not 19, but 26. However, the new Apple operating system update announced during WWDC 2025 will not reach all iPhones.
According to reports, the iPhones that will not receive iOS 26 are the iPhone XS, XS Max, and XR — all models released in 2018. As for iPadOS 26, it will only leave behind the 7th generation iPad.
Regarding Apple computers, macOS 26 is not expected to be available for 2020 Intel-based MacBook Air, 2018 MacBook Pro, 2018 Mac Mini, and 2017 iMac Pro.
Fortunately, older iPhones like the 2nd generation SE and iPhone 11 appear to be safe and should receive iOS 26 normally.
However, it’s worth noting that this information is just rumors and should be treated as such until official information is released by Apple.
Also, even if older iPhones get the update, they may not receive all the new features available on newer smartphones due to hardware limitations.
Photo and video: Unsplash. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
