Apple is once again ensuring its older devices remain relevant with iOS 19. According to recent reports, the new operating system will be supported on all iPhones capable of running iOS 18.
This marks the second consecutive year Apple has avoided dropping compatibility for any models. This move extends the ability of older devices and solidifies the company's commitment to longevity.
The complete list of iPhones that will support the iOS 19 operating system include:
- iPhone 16 series: iPhone 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, 16 Pro Max
- iPhone 15 series: iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max
- iPhone 14 series: iPhone 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max
- iPhone 13 series: iPhone 13, 13 Mini, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max
- iPhone 12 series: iPhone 12, 12 Mini, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max
- iPhone 11 series: iPhone 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max
- Older models: iPhone XR, iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, and iPhone SE (2nd generation and later)
The oldest supported devices in this list are the iPhone XS, XS Max, and XR, which were launched in September 2018. Despite being old, these iPhone models continue to receive Apple's latest updates; however, due to hardware limitations, not all new features may be available.
Apple's approach with the upcoming iOS 19 reflects a broad strategy to maximize device longevity. iOS 18 also maintains compatibility across the same range of devices as iOS 17, which previously dropped support for iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus, and iPhone X.
By maintaining this trend, Apple encourages users to hold onto their devices longer without sacrificing software updates or security.
While iPhone users celebrate continued software support, iPad users receive negative news. iPadOS 19 will reportedly drop support for the iPad 7, released in 2019. Besides that, all the other models running iPadOS 18 will remain compatible.
The first public beta of iOS 19 is expected to be released at the WWDC in June 2025, with the final release likely in September 2025.
Among the rumored features, a controversial Siri upgrade in iOS 19.4 is the most intriguing, as it promises capabilities similar to ChatGPT by early 2026.
Apple's decision to promote broad compatibility shows its commitment to user experience and device life. It guarantees that even older models remain up to date.