Apple has finalised its iOS 26 rollout roadmap, and several older iPhones are not included in the list of supported devices. This means these models will not receive the upcoming software update, leaving them without new features and future security improvements.
iPhones not getting iOS 26
A total of 11 iPhones are now excluded from the iOS 26 update cycle. The list includes:
• iPhone X
• iPhone XR
• iPhone XS
• iPhone XS Max
• iPhone 8
• iPhone 8 Plus
• iPhone 7
• iPhone 7 Plus
• iPhone 6s
• iPhone 6s Plus
• iPhone SE (1st generation)
• iPhone SE models older than 2nd generation
These devices will remain on their last available iOS version, with no future major updates or features.
Why this matters
Apple generally provides about five to six years of software updates for each iPhone model, after which support phases out. Without iOS 26, the listed iPhones will stop receiving key improvements and could eventually lose app compatibility as developers optimise for newer versions. Security vulnerabilities will also no longer be patched, which is a concern for users who rely on their phones for sensitive tasks such as banking and online payments.
What you should do
If your iPhone is on the unsupported list, it is advisable to consider upgrading to a newer model. The iPhone 15 series remains available, while the iPhone 16 lineup is expected to launch later this month with longer-term support. For users holding on to older models, taking precautions such as enabling two-factor authentication, keeping apps updated, and backing up data is recommended to maintain usability for as long as possible.
Discover the latest Business News, Sensex, and Nifty updates. Obtain Personal Finance insights, tax queries, and expert opinions on Moneycontrol or download the Moneycontrol App to stay updated!
