iOS 18 will be the next big update for iPhones and it’s going to be a game changer – especially in terms of Ai functionality and Apple Intelligence. If you’re wondering which models will work with the new software, Apple has made announcements that iOS 18 will be compatible with iPhone XR and newer models, including the iPhone 11 series, iPhone 12 series, iPhone 13 series, iPhone 14 series, iPhone 15 series, and soon to be released iPhone 16 series.
The update promises exciting features for supported devices. Apple plans to reveal more details at WWDC 2024. Users with older iPhones may need to upgrade to enjoy the latest iOS benefits.
Apple typically supports iPhones for several years after release. This allows most users to access new features and security fixes. The official release of iOS 18 is expected in September 2024 once the beta testing is concluded and will ship alongside the iPhone 16 line which is expected to be released on September 20, 2024.
When Does iOS 18 Come Out
Apple’s iOS 18 is set to release in September 2024 alongside the release of the iPhone 16 lineup (expected September 20, 2024)
iPhones Ready for iOS 18
The Lineup
Apple continues its tradition of supporting a wide range of devices with each new iOS release. iOS 18 is no different, bringing its latest features and enhancements to a substantial list of iPhones.
| iPhone Model | Compatible with iOS 18? | Ai Compatible |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, 16 Pro Max | Yes | Yes |
| iPhone 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max | Yes | Yes |
| iPhone 15, 15 Plus | Yes | No |
| iPhone 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max | Yes | No |
| iPhone 13, 13 mini, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max | Yes | No |
| iPhone 12, 12 mini, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max | Yes | No |
| iPhone 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max | Yes | No |
| iPhone XS, XS Max | Yes | No |
| iPhone XR | Yes | No |
| iPhone X | No | No |
| iPhone 8, 8 Plus | No | No |
| iPhone 7, 7 Plus | No | No |
| iPhone 6s, 6s Plus | No | No |
| iPhone SE (1st and 2nd generation) | No | No |
Noteworthy Points
- The iPhone XR marks the starting point for iOS 18 compatibility, leaving older models behind.
- While all listed models can run iOS 18, some newer features may be exclusive to the latest iPhones.
- Always ensure you have a recent backup before updating your device to a new iOS version.
Key Takeaways
- iOS 18 will work on iPhone XR and newer models
- Apple will announce more iOS 18 features at WWDC 2024
- The official iOS 18 release is set for fall 2024
Eligible iPhone Models for iOS 18
iOS 18 will work on many iPhone models. Apple plans to support both new and older iPhones with this update.
New Generation iPhones
The iPhone 16 (all models) and iPhone 15 Pro series will be able to run iOS 18 with all Ai features enabled. This includes the iPhone 15 Pro, and iPhone 15 Pro Max, which have the A17 Pro chip and helps them run iOS 18 smoothly. It’s still a debate over whether Apple will open up Ai functionality to the other iPhone 15 models, but it has been speculated that they will.
The iPhone 14 lineup is also set for iOS 18. This covers the iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, iPhone 14 Pro, and iPhone 14 Pro Max. These phones are strong enough to handle the new system well, but aren’t likely to be enabled for Ai functionality.
Previous Generation Compatibility
Older iPhones will get iOS 18 too, but functionality may be limited. The iPhone 13 series (13, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max, 13 Mini) can use it. The iPhone 12 family (12, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max, 12 Mini) is also on the list. Even the iPhone 11 group (11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max) will work with iOS 18.
Some even older models might get the update. This could include the iPhone XS, XS Max, and XR. The iPhone SE (2nd and 3rd gen) should also run iOS 18. But Apple hasn’t said for sure about these older phones yet.
Key Features and Enhancements with iOS 18
iOS 18 brings big changes to iPhones. Users will see new looks, better apps, and smarter tech. The update focuses on making phones easier to use and more secure.
User Interface and Customization
The home screen gets a makeover in iOS 18. Users can now add more widgets and change their size. The lock screen also has new options. You can pick different fonts and colors for the time and date.
Apps now have a fresh look. Menus are easier to read and buttons are bigger. Dark mode works better in all apps.
You can also make your own app icons now. This lets you give your iPhone a truly unique style.
App Updates and New Functionalities
Messages gets cool text effects. You can make words pop or slide across the screen. Mail now sorts emails better. It can put important ones at the top of your inbox.
Safari has a new privacy mode. It hides your web activity even better than before. Maps can now work offline. You can download areas to use when you don’t have internet.
The Photos app is smarter at grouping pictures. It can sort by people, places, and things. Music now has haptic feedback. You feel tiny buzzes as you change songs or adjust volume.
Security, Privacy, and Accessibility Enhancements
iOS 18 makes passwords stronger. It suggests complex codes and warns about weak ones. Face ID is faster and works at more angles.
New privacy controls let you see which apps use your data. You can easily stop apps from tracking you.
For accessibility, there’s now eye tracking. This helps people who can’t use their hands control their iPhone. Voice commands work for more tasks too.
Communication and Connectivity
Messages now works with RCS. This means better texting with Android phones. You can send high-quality photos and see when others are typing.
FaceTime calls look clearer. The app uses AI to enhance video quality. Group calls are easier to manage with new controls.
AirPods connect faster to your iPhone. They also switch between devices more smoothly. Wi-Fi calling is more stable and uses less battery.
Advanced Technologies Integration
Siri gets a big upgrade with AI. It can now understand context better and answer more complex questions. The AI also helps with photo editing and writing text.
AR features are improved. You can place virtual objects in the real world more accurately. The camera app uses AI to suggest better shots and editing options.
Apple Pay gets a “Tap to Cash” feature. This lets you send money to nearby iPhones just by tapping them together.
FAQs
What iPhones will iOS 18 support?
iOS 18 extends its compatibility to a range of iPhones, starting from the iPhone XR and newer models. This includes the iPhone XS, XS Max, iPhone 11 series, iPhone 12 series, iPhone 13 series, iPhone 14 series, and of course, the latest iPhone 15 and iPhone 16 series.
Can you get iOS 18 on iPhone 13?
Absolutely! The iPhone 13, along with its mini, Pro, and Pro Max variants, will be compatible with iOS 18. You can enjoy all the new features (minus Ai) and enhancements that the latest iOS version brings.
What iPhones will not be supported in 2024? / What phones won’t get iOS 18? / Which iPhones will no longer update?
Unfortunately, several older iPhone models will miss out on the iOS 18 update. These include the iPhone X, iPhone 8 and 8 Plus, iPhone 7 and 7 Plus, iPhone 6s and 6s Plus, and the first-generation iPhone SE. If you are still using one of these model phones it may be time to consider an update.
Why is iOS 18 not available on my phone?
If iOS 18 isn’t available on your iPhone, it’s likely because your device is not on the list of compatible models. Apple typically supports iPhones for around 5-6 years with software updates, after which they are phased out to ensure optimal performance and security on newer devices.
