Every iPhone that will likely be blocked from Apple's iOS 26 update

With WWDC just around the corner, it might be worth knowing which iPhone models likely won't support iOS 26.

According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, iOS 26 could be 'one of the most dramatic software overhauls in [Apple's] history.'

Apple fans were already shocked to discover the tech giant is resetting its iOS naming system by aligning its version with the calendar year. So, what was supposed to roll out as iOS 19 later this year will now be iOS 26.

Most importantly, Apple is set to address rumours surrounding the iPhone 17 series and give fans a first look at what the next-gen smartphone has to offer.

Additionally, reliable leaks on X, as per 9to5Mac, expect a new look for Camera, live translation features for AirPods, an AI-powered health assistant and supposedly, a bunch of Apple Intelligence features that didn’t make it into iOS 18.

Check out the preview for WWDC 2025 below:

But, as with every major software iOS update, some older devices are expected to be dropped.

Based on current reports, these iPhones will likely be left out of the iOS 26 rollout:

• iPhone XS
• iPhone XS Max
• iPhone XR

All three of these models debuted in 2018, which means they’ll be seven years old by the time iOS 26 launches in the fall. This isn't usual, as the corp typically stops software support for devices within the five- to six-year window. And the trio will have been out for seven years by the time the full iOS 26 release arrives in the fall.

iPadOS 26 is expected to drop just the iPad (7th generation), while macOS 26 is set to drop four Macs:

• 2020 MacBook Air with Intel
• 2018 MacBook Pro
• 2018 Mac mini
• 2017 iMac Pro

Of course, this list isn't set in stone but they do come from reputable online leaks that have shown to be very accurate in the past.

While there’s no immediate need to upgrade your phone, it’s worth keeping an eye on since you won't have access to new features or the latest security patches.

Meanwhile, everything from the iPhone SE (2nd generation) and iPhone 11 series through to the upcoming iPhone 16 lineup will still be eligible for the update. That said, not every supported iOS 26 iPhone will get the full experience of the update.

Some features, especially those tied to Apple Intelligence and advanced AI tools, will require iPhone 15 Pro or newer due to hardware limitations.