The first details and new features of iOS 26, the new version of Apple’s operating system, were announced. This introduces significant design changes that translate to the biggest facelift the interface has undergone in many years. Interestingly, we’ve gone directly from iOS 18 to iOS 26, a strategic decision by the brand to align its update with the current year.
Everyone wants access to the new version as soon as possible, although not everyone will have that pleasure. This is because many iPhones won’t be updating to iOS 26, and the same is true for some Apple Watch and iPad models. Today, we’re reviewing all the Apple devices that won’t be updated.
All iPhones that don’t update to iOS 26
As happens every year, several phones, watches, and tablets are left without an update. iOS 26 is no exception, and older models won’t receive the new features that are coming soon. This is inevitable, as it is caused by the devices’ hardware, which becomes outdated, and the version is no longer compatible.
We know that Apple is a generous brand when it comes to updates, and its phones typically enjoy a support period of between 6 and 7 years. However, every device’s time comes, and this time, all iPhones from the iPhone 11 onward are getting the iOS 26 update, meaning older models won’t.
Here’s the full list of iPhone models that aren’t updating:
- iPhone XR
- iPhone XS Max
- iPhone Xs
- iPhone X
- iPhone 8 Plus
- iPhone 8
- iPhone 7 Plus
- iPhone 7
- iPhone SE
- iPhone 6s Plus
- iPhone 6s
- iPhone 6 Plus
- iPhone 6
The iPhones on this list won’t be getting the iOS 26 update, and the same goes for releases prior to the iPhone 6. It’s unlikely that one of them will be your personal phone, but if it is, we recommend upgrading to a more recent one so you can fully enjoy the new features and the iOS facelift.
iPads that won’t have iPadOS 26
The new version of iOS for iPad is called iPadOS 26, and it also includes many of the major changes to the system’s interface. The number of compatible models is more limited, so many won’t be able to experience the new features that are coming soon.
This is the list of iPads that will not be updated to iOS 26:
- iPad (7th generation)
- iPad (6th generation)
- iPad (5th generation)
- iPad Air (2nd generation)
- iPad mini (4th generation)
- 9.7-inch iPad Pro (1st generation)
- 12.9-inch iPad Pro (1st and 2nd generation)
- 10.5-inch iPad Pro (1st generation)
It’s important to note that all iPad models older than those listed will also not receive the system update.
Apple Watches that are left without updates
Apple Watches use WatchOS as their operating system. This version is tailored for this class of devices and doesn’t share many options and features with iOS 26. Here’s the complete list of Apple Watch models that won’t be getting the new WatchOS 26 update:
- Apple Watch SE (1st generation)
- Apple Watch Series 5
- Apple Watch Series 4
- Apple Watch Series 3
- Apple Watch Series 2
- Apple Watch Series 1
