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Apple is gearing up to unveil its highly anticipated software updates next week, which include iOS 26, iPadOS 26, and macOS 26. However, with these new releases, the company is expected to phase out support for several older devices. While software updates are a yearly tradition, this yearās changes could impact many users who have older iPhones, iPads, and Macs. Letās dive into what devices might be affected and how this will impact your Apple experience.
Upcoming Software Updates and Dropped Support for Older Devices
Appleās annual software update cycle is typically met with excitement, as each new version brings a host of improvements, features, and performance enhancements. But with each release, thereās always the question: which devices will still be supported, and which will be left behind?
In 2023, Appleās iOS 17 update supported all the same devices as iOS 16, which meant that users of older iPhones, iPads, and Macs could still enjoy the new features. However, this year, the rumors indicate that Apple is planning to drop support for some older devices with the release of iOS 26, iPadOS 26, and macOS 26.
Devices Dropping Support for iOS 26:
According to various sources, the following iPhone models are expected to be left behind with iOS 26:
iPhone XS
iPhone XS Max
iPhone XR
Devices Dropping Support for iPadOS 26:
iPadOS 26 will drop support for the 7th generation iPad, a device that has been around for several years and may no longer meet the requirements for the new update.
Devices Dropping Support for macOS 26:
When it comes to macOS, Apple plans to leave behind four Macs:
2020 MacBook Air with Intel
2018 MacBook Pro
2018 Mac mini
2017 iMac Pro
Although these lists are not yet final, they represent the latest expectations from industry sources. However, itās important to note that just because a device is technically supported doesnāt mean it will be able to use all of the latest features. For example, while iOS 18 supports many older iPhones, features like Apple Intelligence are only available on a select number of devices.
What Undercode Says: A Closer Look at the Shift in Apple’s Software Strategy
As Apple continues to innovate with new features, the need for updated hardware becomes increasingly evident. The transition to more demanding software features means older devices, which were once compatible, can no longer handle the performance demands of newer updates.
The decision to drop support for older devices, particularly those that are several years old, is a typical move in the tech industry. While many users are accustomed to receiving support for their devices for several years after release, Appleās strategy has become more focused on pushing the boundaries of technology. This can be seen in the way iPhones and Macs have evolved, with newer models featuring powerful processors, improved cameras, and cutting-edge features that are not feasible on older devices.
From a business standpoint,
Another aspect to consider is the feature fragmentation that occurs with Appleās software updates. As mentioned earlier, some older iPhones may still run iOS 26, but many advanced features, like Apple Intelligence, may not be accessible. This creates a divide between users with newer devices and those with older ones, even though they are technically using the same version of the operating system. This fragmentation could lead to inconsistencies in user experiences, especially when it comes to app compatibility and system performance.
Fact Checker Results ā ā
iOS 26 Dropping Support for iPhone XS, XS Max, and XR: This claim is accurate, as industry rumors suggest that Apple is planning to end support for these models with the release of iOS 26. ā
iPadOS 26 Dropping Support for the 7th Generation iPad: This rumor is consistent with expectations and is highly likely to be true. ā
macOS 26 Dropping Support for Older Macs (2017 iMac Pro and others): This is in line with Apple’s history of phasing out support for older Intel-based Macs. ā
Prediction: What Will Apple Do Next? š®
Looking ahead, itās likely that Apple will continue to phase out support for older devices as their software demands increase. As Appleās ecosystem becomes more advanced, older hardware may simply no longer meet the performance requirements for new updates. This may lead to further fragmentation in the Apple ecosystem, as users with older devices continue to rely on outdated software versions that lack key features.
Appleās push toward more powerful, feature-rich devices like the iPhone 15 Pro and the upcoming M2 Macs suggests that future software updates may be even more demanding. This means that users with devices older than 5 years might have to make a tough decision: upgrade to the latest models or stick with their current devices and miss out on the latest software improvements.
In the near future, we can also expect a shift toward more seamless integration between Apple devices and services. Appleās vision of a connected, fully integrated ecosystem will likely push users toward upgrading to stay fully immersed in the experience, with those holding on to older devices gradually becoming a minority. Ultimately, the decision to upgrade will be a balancing act between user satisfaction, device performance, and the desire for the latest features.
References:
Reported By: 9to5mac.com
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