What iPhones Support iOS 26?

iOS 26, iOS 26 focuses on Privacy, iOS 26 focuses on speed, iPhones Support iOS 26
أكتوبر 31, 2025
Shweta Sharma

Introduction

The latest major iPhone software update, iOS 26, has been officially introduced by Apple. For UAE users who are keen to stay current and make the most of their iPhone’s capabilities, it’s crucial to know which devices are supported and what the limitations are. Whether you’re using a model bought in Dubai or Abu Dhabi, or imported to the UAE market, understanding iOS 26 compatibility helps you decide whether to update now or consider upgrading your device. In this article, you’ll learn which iPhones support iOS 26, which don’t, and what it means for UAE users.

Compatibility List – Which iPhones Are Supported?

Apple has confirmed that iOS 26 supports iPhones from the iPhone 11 series onward (i.e., devices with the A13 Bionic chip or newer) and it drops support for a small set of older models.

Here’s the compatible list breakdown for the UAE market:

iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro, iPhone 11 Pro Max
iPhone 12, iPhone 12 mini, iPhone 12 Pro, iPhone 12 Pro Max
iPhone 13, iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 13 Pro, iPhone 13 Pro Max
iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, iPhone 14 Pro, iPhone 14 Pro Max
iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max
iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, iPhone 16 Pro Max, iPhone 16e
iPhone 17 series (including iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone 17 Pro Max) & iPhone Air (new model)
iPhone SE (2nd generation) and later (i.e., SE 3rd gen)

Which iPhones Are Not Supported?

For UAE users who own older iPhones, it’s important to note which models won’t get iOS 26. Apple has dropped support for some older devices: iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, and iPhone XR (all from 2018) are not eligible for iOS 26. This means if you’re using one of these models in the UAE, you will not be able to install iOS 26 and should consider either staying on your current iOS or upgrading your device to benefit from the latest features and security updates.

Why These Support Decisions? (What the Tech Behind It Says)

Why did Apple set the compatibility threshold where they did? Below are key technical reasons relevant to UAE users and globally:

Chipset requirement: iOS 26 requires at least an A13 Bionic processor (which started with iPhone 11) to ensure smooth performance, especially given many of iOS 26’s design and intelligence features.
Feature set limitations: Even among compatible devices, some of the more advanced features (such as those under Apple Intelligence) are reserved for newer hardware (e.g., iPhone 15 Pro and later) because they require stronger processing, neural engines and other hardware support.
Lifecycle and support policy: Dropping three older models (XR, XS, XS Max) is consistent with Apple’s pacing in offering major OS updates while gradually phasing out older hardware.

For UAE consumers, this means the real-world experience of iOS 26 — from smooth animations to new design touches and advanced intelligence features — will be best on the more recent iPhones.

What New Features Does iOS 26 Bring for UAE Users?

As a user in the UAE, installing iOS 26 on a supported iPhone will unlock a range of improvements. Here are some of the headline features:

“Liquid Glass” design revamp: A fresh visual interface with translucent elements, dynamic backgrounds, and a more refined navigation experience.
Enhanced Messages & Phone call features: Features like polls in group chats, custom chat backgrounds, hold-assist for Phone app (so you get notified when a call queue picks up) are part of the update.
Apple Intelligence-powered improvements: Live translation, on-device intelligence, smarter photos, etc. While full features may be limited to newer iPhones, many improvements are available broadly on supported devices.
Improved home screen, navigation, and apps: Redesigned Photos, Safari improvements, better widgets, more customization — all contributing to a richer iPhone experience in the UAE.

These features make the update worthwhile especially if you use your iPhone heavily for messaging, productivity, travel, multi-language communication (relevant in the diverse UAE setting), and want the latest look and feel.

Considerations Before Updating in UAE

Before you hit “Update” on your iPhone in the UAE, here are some practical considerations:

Storage space & backup: Make sure you have enough free storage on your iPhone, back up to iCloud or your Mac, especially if you’re running a device with older storage capacity.
Check carrier & regional support: While Apple’s software update is global, certain local features or carrier-specific settings in the UAE may require that you are on a supported carrier and have latest carrier settings installed.
Battery health & performance: If your iPhone is older and has reduced battery health, installing a major update like iOS 26 might reveal slower performance or may prompt battery replacement.
Feature availability may vary: Some of the advanced features of iOS 26 might not be available in all regions (including some UAE-specific limitations) or on older hardware. So even if your device is compatible, you may not get everything.
Stay current with security updates: Even if you cannot upgrade to iOS 26 (because your device is unsupported), make sure you install any available security updates Apple issues for your version to maintain safety.

What This Means for Buying or Upgrading iPhones in UAE

If you’re shopping for an iPhone in UAE now (either new or refurbished) and want to ensure it receives iOS 26 and beyond, here’s what to keep in mind:

Choose a model from the compatibility list above (iPhone 11 or newer).
If budget permits, aim for iPhone 15 series or later because you'll not only get iOS 26 but also full access to the most advanced features (especially AI-type features) that Apple is rolling out.
Avoid models that are unsupported (iPhone XR, iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max) if you want future OS updates and longevity.
Considering resale value in UAE: models eligible for iOS 26 are more likely to retain value, since the support window is extended.
Plan for at least a few years of updates: Apple’s move to drop some older models shows they are tightening support boundaries, so purchasing a model that is newer gives you a longer software lifespan.

Conclusion

For UAE users eager to install iOS 26, the good news is: if you have an iPhone 11 or any newer iPhone (as listed above), you’re eligible. Apple has dropped support only for a small set of older 2018-era devices (iPhone XR, XS, XS Max). The update brings a bold redesign, boosted intelligence features, and refined app experiences — all of which help keep your iPhone fresh and modern in the UAE market. As always, ensure you backup your device, check compatibility, and be aware that while support is broad, the top-tier features will shine most on newer hardware. With the right model, you’ll be set for the next generation of iPhone software and beyond.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q.1. Can my iPhone 11 running in UAE install iOS 26?

Yes — iPhone 11 is on the supported list for iOS 26.

Q.2. Will iPhone XR in UAE receive iOS 26?

No — iPhone XR is not eligible for iOS 26.

Q.3. Do all features of iOS 26 work on older supported iPhones in UAE?

Not all — some advanced features (especially Apple Intelligence features) require newer models like iPhone 15 Pro or later.

Q.4. If my iPhone is supported for iOS 26 in the UAE, when can I update?

iOS 26 was released broadly around September 2025, and you can update via Settings → General → Software Update.

Q.5. What if I have an iPhone XS Max in the UAE — will it get security updates?

While the iPhone XS Max won’t get iOS 26, Apple may still provide important security updates for a limited time — but you will not receive the major OS update.