A New Era for iPhone with iOS 26
Apple’s iOS 26, set to launch in September 2025, introduces a transformative update for iPhone users, featuring a visually stunning Liquid Glass design and powerful Apple Intelligence enhancements. Unveiled at WWDC 2025, this major software release promises a refreshed user experience with improved privacy features, real-time translation, and a host of quality-of-life improvements. However, not all iPhones will be able to run this cutting-edge update. Here’s a breakdown of which devices are compatible, what the update brings, and what it means for your iPhone’s security.
Compatible iPhone Models for iOS 26
Apple has confirmed that iOS 26 will support iPhones equipped with an A13 Bionic chip or newer, meaning devices released in 2019 and later are eligible. However, three popular 2018 models—the iPhone XR, iPhone XS, and iPhone XS Max—will not support iOS 26, marking the end of major software updates for devices with the A12 Bionic chip. The full list of compatible iPhones includes:
- iPhone 16, 16e, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, 16 Pro Max
- iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max
- iPhone 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max
- iPhone 13, 13 Mini, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max
- iPhone 12, 12 Mini, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max
- iPhone 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max
- iPhone SE (2nd generation, 2020)
- iPhone SE (3rd generation, 2022)
Additionally, the anticipated iPhone 17 series, expected to launch alongside iOS 26 in September 2025, will ship with the new software pre-installed. While older models like the iPhone 11 can run iOS 26, some advanced features—particularly those powered by Apple Intelligence—require an A17 Pro chip or newer, limiting them to the iPhone 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max, and iPhone 16 series.
Key Features of iOS 26
iOS 26 introduces a bold new design language called Liquid Glass, inspired by visionOS, which brings translucent, glass-like elements to the Lock Screen, Home Screen, Control Center, and apps. This design creates a fluid, reflective interface that adapts to movement and content, offering a cohesive and visually engaging experience across Apple devices. Other notable features include:
- Enhanced Apple Intelligence: Visual Intelligence allows users to search, ask questions, and take actions based on on-screen content, with integration for ChatGPT and apps like Google and Etsy. For example, users can identify events in flyers and add them to their Calendar automatically.
- Phone and Messages Upgrades: The Phone app now includes Call Screening, which automatically answers unknown calls to verify the caller’s identity, and Hold Assist, which notifies users when a live agent is ready. Messages supports polls, custom backgrounds, and Live Translation for cross-language communication.
- Privacy and Security: iOS 26 bolsters security with TLS 1.3 using Quantum Security for encrypted connections and advanced fingerprinting protection in Safari. Call Screening also helps reduce spam interruptions.
- New Apps and Features: A dedicated Games app centralizes gaming content, while Maps now tracks visited places and alerts users to commute delays. The Wallet app supports a digital ID using a U.S. passport, usable at TSA checkpoints and select apps.
The public beta for iOS 26 is available through the Apple Beta Software Program at beta.apple.com, but users are cautioned to back up their devices due to potential bugs in early releases. The stable version is expected to roll out in mid-September 2025, likely alongside the iPhone 17 series announcement.
Security Implications for Unsupported Devices
If your iPhone is among the XR, XS, or XS Max, you won’t be able to upgrade to iOS 26, which could impact your device’s security. Apple typically provides security updates for the previous iOS version (iOS 18) for a short period after a new release to support hesitant upgraders. For example, iOS 18.6 is currently receiving updates, and iOS 17 received a security patch (17.7.2) in November 2024. However, older devices may eventually miss critical patches, increasing vulnerability to malware and exploits.
Cybersecurity expert Jake Moore from ESET advises that users with unsupported devices, especially high-risk individuals like journalists or executives, consider upgrading within the next year to maintain security. For others, continuing to use an older iPhone is feasible, but users should apply security updates promptly and be aware that some apps may stop functioning if they require iOS 26 or later. Trading in an older device at retailers like Apple, Best Buy, or Amazon, or waiting for discounts on models like the iPhone 16 after the iPhone 17 launch, could be cost-effective options.
iOS 26 marks a significant leap in design and functionality, but the transition may not be smooth for everyone. Early feedback on the third iOS 26 beta highlights issues like battery drain, signal problems, and Apple Pay glitches, indicating that Apple is still refining the software. Reddit users have called it “one of the buggiest betas” in recent memory, so caution is advised when testing the public beta.
For those with compatible devices, iOS 26 promises a vibrant, AI-enhanced experience. If your iPhone is no longer supported, it may be time to plan an upgrade to ensure continued access to the latest features and security enhancements. Stay tuned for the official release in September 2025, and visit Apple’s Beta Software Program to explore the beta if you’re eager to try the Liquid Glass design early.
Sources: Apple, Forbes, MacRumors, and user feedback from online platforms.
