The official release of iOS 18 is just around the corner, set to follow Apple’s “It’s Glowtime” event in two days. During this event, Apple will unveil its new iPhone 16 lineup, which will come pre-installed with iOS 18. But if you’re not planning on upgrading to the latest iPhone, you must check whether your current iPhone is compatible with the new operating system.
Every year, Apple removes some older models from the list of devices eligible for iOS updates. For instance, the iPhone 8, 8 Plus, and X were left off the iOS 17 compatibility list last year. These users could not upgrade to iOS 17 and missed out on essential features and security improvements. This year, with iOS 18, similar changes are expected.
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Which iPhones support iOS 18?
IOS 18 will work with your iPhone if it supports iOS 17. iPhone models supported by Apple include:
iPhone SE (second generation or later)
iPhone XR, iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max
iPhone 11 series (iPhone 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max)
iPhone 12 series (iPhone 12, 12 mini, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max)
iPhone 13 series (iPhone 13, 13 mini, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max)
iPhone 14 series (iPhone 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max)
iPhone 15 series (iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max)
This means that if you own an iPhone from 2017 or earlier, such as the iPhone 8 or iPhone X, you won’t be able to update to iOS 18. Your phone will continue to function, but you’ll miss out on new features and enhancements with the update.
Apple intelligence and compatibility
One of the significant highlights of iOS 18 is Apple Intelligence, a new AI-powered feature. However, not all iPhones will support this feature. Currently, only the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max models will be compatible with Apple Intelligence, meaning older devices won’t have access. The upcoming iPhone 16 models are expected to support Apple Intelligence fully, but official confirmation is expected at Apple’s event.
Key features of iOS 18
Apple Intelligence is a significant component of iOS 18, but all compatible iPhones will get additional new capabilities. Some of the most anticipated features:
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iOS 18 introduces a password-safe app. This tool will centralise credentials and security warnings, making sensitive data more accessible to access and manage.
The new iMessage lets users use bold, italicised, underlined, and strikethrough text. iPhones will implement Rich Communication Services (RCS) to improve compatibility with Android smartphones and allow message animations.
The Photos app is being updated to simplify collection management. Users can pin groupings like “Vacation Photos” or “Family Events,” improving usability.
iOS 18 lets users change app icons or leave vacant spots on the home screen for improved layout control. App icons can be tinted and enlarged for a more personalised experience.