iOS 26 is nearly here.
The most recent version of Apple’s mobile operating system will most likely be released next week to the general public (we’ll get more information about that tomorrow during Apple’s September event) and bring new features like a translucent “Liquid Glass” look, the latest on-device Apple Intelligence perks (real-time translation and a smarter Visual Intelligence search), and phone and text upgrades like built-in call screening and in-chat polls.
Unfortunately, not everyone will get a chance to test out the new software.
iOS 26 requires, at the very least, Apple’s A13 Bionic chip, so some older devices will get left behind. Not sure where your phone stands? Check the full compatibility list below before you try to download iOS 26.
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Every iPhone that will get iOS 26
The phones left off this year’s list are the iPhone XS, XS Max and XR.
Heads-up: Apple Intelligence isn’t for everyone
While all of the models above can install iOS 26, Apple Intelligence requires beefier hardware. Features such as Genmoji, Image Playground and the new Visual Intelligence search only work on:
- iPhone 15 Pro and 15 Pro Max
- iPhone 16 models
- iPhone 17 models
If you’re on an older device, you’ll still get all the design changes and everyday updates, but nothing involving Apple Intelligence.
Not sure which iPhone you own?
On your iPhone, go to Settings > General > About and look at Model Name. If your phone isn’t on the compatibility list, it will keep receiving iOS 18 security patches for a while, but you won’t see any of iOS 26’s new features.
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