Discover Which iPhone & iPad Models Will Miss Out on iOS 26: Is Yours on the List?

If you own an older iPhone or iPad, you might be feeling a little anxious about what updates are coming. With Apple’s yearly updates, there’s always a risk that your device may not make the cut. This year, iOS 26 leaves behind some popular models, creating a buzz among users.

Apple announced iOS 26 and iPadOS 26 during WWDC 2025. This time, the company surprised everyone by jumping straight from iOS 18 to iOS 26. Unfortunately, this means some beloved devices like the iPhone XR, iPhone XS, and the 7th-generation iPad will no longer receive updates. Although these devices will still get security patches for a few more years, many users may feel left in the dust.

A recent survey found that nearly 30% of iPhone users own devices that will no longer be supported with the latest iOS. This reflects a shift in Apple’s strategy as the tech giant focuses on newer devices. The older devices, once highly praised for their innovative designs, are now considered outdated in the fast-paced tech world.

For longtime Apple fans, this news isn’t entirely shocking. Typically, devices get about six to seven years of major iOS support. Hardware limitations are often the reason for discontinuation. If you own an iPhone 11 or newer, or a 2nd or 3rd generation iPhone SE, you’re safe for this update. These models will enjoy new features like the sleek Apple Liquid Glass interface and live translation in messages.

When it comes to iPads, the situation looks a bit better. Just one device—the 7th-generation iPad—will miss out on iPadOS 26. Released in 2019 and powered by the A10 Fusion chip, it has served users well but now faces the same fate as older iPhones. Most other iPads, including the 8th, 9th, and 10th generations, will still receive the update.

This update to iPadOS feels more like a desktop experience, with new windowing systems that make multitasking easier. However, not all iPads will benefit equally. Advanced features will only be available on newer models with M-series chips or A17 Pro processors. Older devices won’t have the capabilities to support the advanced AI functions that are now becoming standard.

In conclusion, while Apple’s updates bring exciting features, they also highlight the challenges of keeping older devices. As technology evolves, so does the need for users to adapt or upgrade to maintain the best experience.

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