Apple iOS 26 and iPadOS 26 Device List: Is Your iPhone or iPad Getting the Update?

Apple’s latest software updates, iOS 26 and iPadOS 26, are set to bring exciting new features, enhanced security, and performance improvements. However, not all devices will support these updates. If you’re wondering whether your iPhone or iPad will get iOS 26/iPadOS 26, this guide covers the official compatibility list, expected features, and what to do if your device isn’t supported.

iOS 26 and iPadOS 26: Expected Release Date

While Apple hasn’t officially confirmed the release date, based on past trends:

Developer Beta: June 2026 (WWDC 2026)
Public Beta: July 2026
Final Stable Release: September 2026 (alongside iPhone 18 series)

iOS 26 Supported iPhone List

Apple typically drops support for older iPhones with major updates. Here’s the expected compatibility list for iOS 26:

Confirmed Supported iPhones (Based on iOS 25 Support)

iPhone 15 Series (15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max)
iPhone 14 Series (14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max)
iPhone 13 Series (13, 13 mini, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max)
iPhone 12 Series (12, 12 mini, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max)
iPhone 11 Series (11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max)
iPhone SE (2022 & 2024 models)

iPhones Likely to Lose Support in iOS 26

iPhone XR (A12 chip, last supported in iOS 25)
iPhone XS/XS Max (A12 chip, may not get iOS 26)
iPhone SE (2020, 1st Gen) (A13 chip, but aging hardware)

iPadOS 26 Supported iPad List

iPadOS 26 will likely follow a similar pattern, dropping older A-series chip iPads.

Expected Supported iPads

iPad Pro (2024 & later models – M3/M4 chip)
iPad Pro (2022 models – M2 chip)
iPad Air (2024 & later – M2/M3 chip)
iPad Air (2022 – M1 chip)
iPad mini (2023 & later – A16/A17 chip)
iPad (2024 & later – A16/A17 chip)

iPads That May Not Get iPadOS 26

iPad Pro (2018 & 2020 – A12X/A12Z chips)
iPad (2021 & earlier – A13/A14 chips)
iPad mini (2021 – A15 chip, borderline case)

Why Are Some Devices Not Supported?

Apple drops support for older devices due to:

Hardware Limitations – Older chips (A12 and below) struggle with new AI and AR features.
Battery & Performance – Aging batteries may not handle intensive software efficiently.
Security Updates – Older devices receive fewer security patches, making them vulnerable.

What If Your Device Isn’t Supported?

If your iPhone or iPad doesn’t make the cut, here’s what you can do:
✔ Continue Using iOS 25/iPadOS 25 (still secure for 1-2 more years)
✔ Upgrade to a Newer Model (iPhone 16 or iPad Pro 2026 for full support)
✔ Consider a Refurbished Supported Model (iPhone 13 or iPad Air 2022)

Expected Features in iOS 26 & iPadOS 26

While Apple hasn’t revealed details yet, leaks suggest:
Advanced AI Integration (Apple GPT-powered Siri)
Revamped Control Center & Lock Screen
Better Multitasking for iPadOS (True Windowed Apps)
Enhanced Privacy & Security (New App Permissions)

Final Verdict: Should You Upgrade?

If your device is supported, update for new features & security.
If your device is unsupported, consider upgrading for long-term software support.

Will your iPhone or iPad get iOS 26/iPadOS 26? Let us know in the comments!

(Sources: Apple Insider, Bloomberg Mark Gurman, iOS Beta Tracker)

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