3 days ago
Three popular iPhones used by millions risk being cut OFF from free upgrades – full list of devices ‘not eligible'
APPLE is just days away from unveiling its next big software update and suite of new features.
But there are three popular iPhone models that may not be eligible for the free upgrade.
2
iOS 26 will reportedly be the first Apple software update to be identified by year.
And according to MacRumors, which cited a trusted leaker, it will be compatible with the iPhone 11 and newer.
If true, it marks the end of software support for the iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, and iPhone XR.
While the trio will continue to receive security updates for the foreseeable future, they won't be able to enjoy any more new features.
The trusted leaker, which shares iOS-related information on a private X account, believes iOS 26 will be available on the following devices:
iPhone 16e
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 SE (2nd generation or later)
The new iPhone 17, forecast to hit shelves this autumn, will also receive iOS 26.
MacRumors noted that the same X account accurately leaked iOS 18 compatibility details last year.
It's worth noting that although some of these older models may be compatible with iOS 26 - they might not receive all the juicy new features.
iPhone 16e review – I've secretly tested Apple's cheapest mobile and I love the new button but that's not the best bit
Some features will be unavailable to older models due to hardware constraints.
For example, Apple Intelligence requires an iPhone 15 Pro or newer - this is because they have more advanced computer chips.
Apple executives are expected to share a first glimpse of the new iPhone update at WWDC 2025 on June 9.
After this date, the tech giant will release the iOS 26 beta - a version of the software that is not yet ready for public release.
Beta software is designed for experts to try, so they can flag any flaws for Apple to iron out before it rolls out more widely.
Once the iOS 26 beta hits iPhones, we should have a clearer idea what perks the iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, and iPhone XR may be missing out on.
CHECK YOUR IPHONE'S BATTERY USAGE
Here's what you need to do...
You can see a quick overview of your battery level and activity by going to Settings > Battery.
Tap a time period to see your Activity graph for the last 24 hours, or a set number of days.
You can also see a list of apps that contributed to your battery usage.
And it'll display the amount of battery that was used by each individual app.
You can see how long each app was in use on the screen, as well as in the background.
Apple explains that you might see the following usage types:
Background Activity means that most of the app's battery usage — such as playing music or tracking location — happened while the app was in the background.
No Cell Coverage and Low Signal means that your device was searching for a signal or being used with a low signal.
Connected to Charger means the app was used only when your device was charging.
If you're worried about battery life and can't get to a charger right away, consider turning Low Power Mode on to preserve it.
You can find this feature in your battery settings.
