The much-anticipated release of Apple’s new iOS18 is finally almost here, packed with loads of exciting new features and upgrades. However, some iPhone users will find they are left out in the cold, as compatibility issues are sure to be an issue.
Since the company announced the new version of the operating system, people have been curious about whether their phone will work with it.
As it turns out, perhaps unsurprisingly, while the update promises to enhance your overall experience, some older models won’t be eligible for the upgrade. Let’s break down what you need to know.
What Features Can You Expect from iOS18?
Apple didn’t hold back at its recent Glowtime event, revealing a raft of cool updates that include:
- A more customizable home screen containing more layout options
- Added RCS messaging support, seeing Apple finally getting in line with industry standard
- Lock screen controls and hidden apps
- Fast and better photo organization
- Dedicated password manager
This just in! View
the top business tech deals for 2024 👨💻
For many, the real game changer has been the advent of Apple Intelligence, the new AI feature created in collaboration with Chat GPT. The company says Apple Intelligence is “the personal intelligence system that combines the power of generative models with personal context to deliver intelligence that is incredibly useful and relevant.” With this, Apple hopes to rival Samsung’s Galaxy S24 Ultra and Google’s Pixel 8 Pro’s abilities, showing they can keep up in the AI game.
Users have been getting acquainted with a beta version of iOS18 for a few months, and the reviews have been encouraging. It has been called solid, stable, and full of redesigns and improvements that have improved the user experience.
Is Your Phone Compatible with iOS18?
Not every device is built to handle iOS 18’s cutting-edge features. In fact, only models with the A12 Bionic chip or newer will support the full update. This means some older iPhones are officially out of the running.
Here’s the full list of every iphone that will be compatible with iOS 18:
- iPhone 16
- iPhone 16 Plus
- iPhone 16 Pro
- iPhone 16 Pro Max
- iPhone 15
- iPhone 15 Plus
- iPhone 15 Pro
- iPhone 15 Pro Max
- iPhone 14
- iPhone 14 Plus
- iPhone 14 Pro
- iPhone 14 Pro Max
- iPhone 13
- iPhone 13 mini
- iPhone 13 Pro
- iPhone 13 Pro Max
- iPhone 12
- iPhone 12 mini
- iPhone 12 Pro
- iPhone 12 Pro Max
- iPhone 11
- iPhone 11 Pro
- iPhone 11 Pro Max
- iPhone XS
- iPhone XS Max
- iPhone XR
- iPhone SE (second generation or later)
Though all these models can support the new OS, it must be noted that not all features will be available on all phones. For instance, Apple Intelligence will work only with the new iPhone 16, the 15 Pro and 15 Pro Max and on iPads and Macs with an M1 chip or newer.
How and When to Get Access to iOS18
Apple has given the official release date as September 16, meaning you won’t have to wait long to get the new features.
The upgrade will be downloadable onto compatible devices via the Settings app. Additionally, eligible phones will, as per usual, be prompted to upgrade so even if you lose track of the date, your phone will remind you to stay up to date!
