iOS 26 compatibility list – Supported iPhones (iPhone 11 & Later)

If you own an iPhone 11 or a newer model, your device is compatible with iOS 26, Apple's latest operating system. iOS 26 brings important new features, performance improvements, and enhanced security to optimize your iPhone experience.

Read more for a clear overview of iOS 26 compatibility, including a complete list of supported iPhone models and the required steps to verify device compatibility.

Key takeaways

• iOS 26 is compatible with iPhone models ranging from iPhone 11 to iPhone 17 Pro Max, while older models will not support this update.

• New features in iOS 26 leverage advanced hardware capabilities, including exclusive enhancements for devices with A16 chips and newer, particularly in camera performance and machine learning.

• Users can check their iPhone model for compatibility within the Settings app, and those with incompatible models will continue to receive security updates for iOS 18.

iOS 26 compatibility overview

iOS 26 is compatible with iPhone models from the iPhone 11 through to the latest iPhone 17 Pro Max. If you own any of these devices, you’ll be able to enjoy all the new features and improvements this update offers.

Older models that previously supported earlier iOS versions are no longer compatible with iOS 26, reflecting Apple’s focus on harnessing the capabilities of newer hardware.

This approach allows Apple to deliver advanced features that require more powerful processors and updated technology, ensuring a smoother and more capable user experience.

If your device is within the supported range, you can look forward to the latest enhancements and improvements that iOS 26 brings.

What happens if your iPhone isn't compatible?

If your iPhone isn’t compatible with iOS 26, here’s what you can expect:

• You will continue to receive important security updates through iOS 18, helping to keep your device protected from emerging threats.

• Your iPhone will maintain stable performance and basic functionality, ensuring reliable operation despite the lack of new features.

• Access to some apps or features that require iOS 26 will be limited or unavailable on your device.

• To enjoy the latest innovations and enhancements, it is recommended to upgrade to an iPhone model that supports iOS 26.

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Full list of iOS 26 supported iPhones

Here’s a list of supported devices to see if your iPhone model is compatible with iOS 26:

• iPhone 11 series: These include the iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro, and iPhone 11 Pro Max, offering users access to iOS 26's core features and improvements.

• iPhone 12 series: Comprising the iPhone 12, iPhone 12 mini, iPhone 12 Pro, and iPhone 12 Pro Max, this series supports enhanced performance and new functionalities in iOS 26.

• iPhone 13 series: Including the iPhone 13, iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 13 Pro, and iPhone 13 Pro Max, these models benefit from advanced hardware capabilities for a smoother iOS 26 experience.

• iPhone 14 series: The iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, iPhone 14 Pro, and iPhone 14 Pro Max support all the latest features and improvements introduced in iOS 26.

• iPhone 15 series: This series, with the iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro, and iPhone 15 Pro Max, fully leverages iOS 26's new features, including exclusive enhancements for newer hardware.

• iPhone 16 series: Including the iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, and iPhone 16 Pro Max, these devices support cutting-edge iOS 26 functionalities.

• iPhone 17 series: The latest iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max models come preloaded with iOS 26, offering the most advanced user experience.

• iPhone SE models: Both the iPhone SE (2nd generation) and iPhone SE (3rd generation) are compatible, allowing users who prefer a smaller device to enjoy iOS 26 features.

Apple’s commitment to supporting a broad spectrum of devices highlights its dedication to providing ongoing updates and security enhancements for many users across different iPhone models.

💡 Did you know? The iPhone 17 features advanced hardware designed to fully leverage iOS 26’s capabilities, including enhanced Apple Intelligence models and the new Liquid Glass design for a stunning visual experience.

How to check your iPhone model in Settings

To check if your iPhone model is compatible with iOS 26, follow these practical step-by-step instructions:

1. Open the Settings app on your iPhone.

2. Scroll down and tap General.

3. Tap About (note: Accessibility settings is not needed here).

4. Look for the Model Name listed at the top of the About page. This will show your iPhone model (e.g., iPhone 11, iPhone 12 Pro).

5. Optionally, find the Model Number listed below the Model Name for further identification.

6. Compare your model name with the list of iPhone models compatible with iOS 26, which includes iPhone 11 and later models.

7. If your iPhone is compatible, you can proceed to update to iOS 26 and enjoy the latest features.

If your iPhone is not listed, it means it is not compatible with iOS 26; however, it will still receive security updates for iOS 18.

Fact: As of end of September 2025, iOS 26 had captured 30.15% share (combined with iOS 19/26 group in TelemetryDeck data) among active devices.Source.

Features exclusive to newer iPhones

iOS 26 introduces features exclusive to newer iPhone models that leverage advanced hardware capabilities.

For example, the Dynamic Island, available on devices with the A16 chip and later, enhances how users interact with notifications and live translations, improving overall app experience.

Camera improvements include better low-light performance and advanced image processing powered by updated chipsets, delivering higher quality photos and videos in various lighting conditions.

Enhanced machine learning and visual intelligence features run more efficiently on newer hardware, providing faster and more accurate results. These camera and AI enhancements require the latest generation devices to deliver optimal performance and image quality.

Tip: To ensure you always have the latest iOS 26 features, enable automatic iOS updates in the Settings app under General > Software Update.

iOS 26 and its impact on your existing app

With the release of iOS 26, many existing apps will experience changes due to the introduction of new system features, design language, and enhanced Apple Intelligence capabilities. The update brings a fresh Liquid Glass design, updated widget APIs, and new frameworks that improve how apps interact with the operating system and users.

For developers and enterprises using webview app development platforms like Median.co, it is essential to update your apps within the Median App Studio to ensure full compatibility with iOS 26.

This includes adapting apps to the new UI elements, integrating Apple Intelligence features where applicable, and optimizing for performance improvements introduced in the latest operating system.

Updating your app in Median's App Studio will help maintain seamless functionality, leverage new iOS 26 features, and provide users with the best possible experience on supported iPhone models. Failure to update may result in reduced app performance or missing out on new capabilities offered by iOS 26.

Summary

In a nutshell: iOS 26 supports iPhone 11 and later models, providing users with access to the latest features, performance improvements, and enhanced security.

Devices older than the iPhone 11 will not be compatible with this update but will continue to receive essential security updates through iOS 18 to maintain safety and stability.

It’s important to verify your device’s compatibility to take full advantage of iOS 26’s innovations or consider upgrading if your current model is no longer supported.

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Frequently asked questions

Which iPhone models are compatible with iOS 26?

iOS 26 is compatible with iPhone 11 and newer models, including the iPhone 17 Pro Max and iPhone SE (2nd and 3rd generations).

How can I check if my iPhone is compatible with iOS 26?

To determine if your iPhone is compatible with iOS 26, navigate to Settings, select General, and then tap About to view your device's model name and number. Ensure that your model is listed among those supported by iOS 26.

What features are exclusive to newer iPhone models with iOS 26?

Newer iPhone models with iOS 26 include exclusive features such as Dynamic Island, improved low-light performance, and enhanced image processing capabilities. These advancements highlight the significant benefits of upgrading to the latest models.

What happens if my iPhone is not compatible with iOS 26?

If your iPhone is not compatible with iOS 26, it will remain secure with ongoing updates for iOS 18, though it will not have access to the new features of iOS 26. This ensures your device can still function safely despite lacking the latest enhancements.

Why are older iPhone models not compatible with iOS 26?

Older iPhone models are not compatible with iOS 26 because the update requires advanced hardware capabilities that these models do not possess. Consequently, users of older devices will miss out on the latest features and improvements.

How do I find my iPhone’s UDID for iOS 26 compatibility or app testing?

You can easily find your iPhone’s UDID (Unique Device Identifier) by using Median.co’s UDID tool. An iPhone UDID is often needed for app testing or verifying device compatibility beyond the usual model checks.