List of iPhones Getting the iOS 26 Update and Its Newest Features

iOS 26 Officially Released: Here's a List of iPhones That Will Get the Update and Its Newest Features

Apple has released iOS 26, a major update that brings performance improvements, security improvements, and the integration of next-generation artificial intelligence. This update aims to provide a smoother, more responsive, and more secure user experience for the iPhone line, which still receives full support from Apple.

The main focuses of iOS 26 include “Apple Intelligence” AI enhancements, battery optimizations, system stability improvements, and visual updates that make navigation feel more modern and faster.

Why Don't All iPhones Get iOS 26?

As technology advances, Apple must adjust to the minimum hardware standards required to run the latest features. Some iPhone models released more than five or six years ago no longer meet the processing requirements for the latest AI, modern graphics, and high-security encryption implemented in iOS 26.

Due to this, older models using the A12 chipset or previous generations are no longer included in the list of compatible devices.

iPhones That Will Get the iOS 26 Update

The latest models like the iPhone 16, 15, and 14 are fully supported. Previous iPhone models like the 13, 12, and 11 are also still included in the compatibility list because they still have powerful enough processor performance to run the new features.

iPhones Compatible with iOS 26

1. iPhone SE (2nd Generation)

• Chipset: A13 Bionic

• Compatibility Comments: The A13 chip is still powerful enough to run the basic features of iOS 26 smoothly, although some features that rely heavily on AI or graphics capabilities may be limited. It's suitable for users who want to upgrade without having to buy a new device.

2. iPhone SE (3rd Generation)

• Chipset: A15 Bionic

• Compatibility Comments: With the A15 Bionic (the same as in the iPhone 13), this device is guaranteed to get the iOS 26 update and is capable of running most of the new features with stable performance.

3. iPhone 11 / 11 Pro / 11 Pro Max

• Chipset: A13 Bionic

• Compatibility Comments: The iPhone 11 series still supports iOS 26 despite its older chipset compared to the latest models. This device still handles many of the latest features well enough for everyday use.

4. iPhone 13 / 13 mini

• Chipset: A15 Bionic

• Compatibility Comments: The iPhone 13 series is confirmed to be compatible with iOS 26. The A15 chip is powerful enough for the new features, and provides a good balance between performance and battery efficiency.

5. iPhone 13 Pro / 13 Pro Max

• Chipset: A15 Bionic

• Compatibility Comments: The Pro version benefits from a 120 Hz ProMotion display and higher hardware configuration, making iOS 26 feel more responsive and stable.

6. iPhone 14 / 14 Plus

• Chipset: A15 Bionic (enhanced variant)

• Compatibility Comments: Despite using the A15 variant, this device has improved efficiency and a better camera, so it still gets full iOS 26 support.

7. iPhone 14 Pro / 14 Pro Max

• Chipset: A16 Bionic

• Compatibility Comments: With the A16, the device is better prepared for the advanced features of iOS 26, including new UI elements and performance improvements for demanding apps.

8. iPhone 15 / 15 Plus

• Chipset: A16 Bionic

• Compatibility Comments: This series is also compatible with iOS 26. The latest chip performance and hardware integration provide a smooth update experience.

9. iPhone 15 Pro / 15 Pro Max

• Chipset: A17 Pro

• Compatibility Comments: The A17 Pro is incredibly powerful in terms of graphics and on-device AI processing. iOS 26 will run optimally and fully support the latest features.

10. iPhone 16 / 16 Plus / 16 Pro / 16 Pro Max / 16e

• Chipset: A18 Bionic/A18 Pro

• Compatibility Comments: The iPhone 16 series is guaranteed to get the iOS 26 update with extended support due to the latest generation chip that supports all operating system features.

11. iPhone 17 / 17 Plus / 17 Pro / 17 Pro Max

• Chipset: A19 Bionic/A19 Pro

• Compatibility Comments: The iPhone 17 series was the most advanced device when iOS 26 was released, so it has the most comprehensive compatibility. All new features, including AI and interface enhancements, will run at their full potential without compromise.

iOS 26 Featured Features

iOS 26 brings a number of modern features that enhance the iPhone experience. Apple Intelligence integration enables smarter auto-compose, notification filtering, and the ability to instantly summarize text. The interface of several apps, such as Messages and Settings, has also been updated to be more intuitive.

Improvements to the camera system allow for more stable and sharp photos, especially in low-light conditions. Furthermore, battery management is now more efficient with a new power management algorithm that adapts to daily usage patterns.

Benefits of Updating

The update to iOS 26 brings enhanced multi-layered security, anti-malware protection, and new, more robust privacy features. Compatible devices will also experience improved system speed, smoother multitasking, and improved responsiveness when opening demanding apps.

Tips Before Updating

Save a backup to iCloud or your computer before updating. Ensure at least 6–8 GB of free storage space is available for a smooth installation. Charge your device to more than 50% capacity and use a stable Wi-Fi connection to speed up the installation file download.

How to Update to iOS 26

Open the Settings menu, select General , then tap Software Update . If your iPhone is compatible, a notification will appear to download iOS 26. Follow the instructions until the process is complete.

Closing

iOS 26 brings many significant improvements that further enhance the iPhone user experience. If your device is compatible, this update is worth considering for its modern features and the latest security protections.

To maintain comfort and extend the life of your device, use quality accessories such as screen protectors, cases, and official chargers to ensure maximum performance after the update.