Apple enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting the release of iOS 18, set to introduce groundbreaking AI-powered features. However, not all iPhones will be able to enjoy the new operating system, as it won’t be compatible with devices produced before 2018.
The highly anticipated iOS 18 update is expected to be unveiled at Apple’s World Wide Developers Conference (WWDC), scheduled for June 10 through 14. This update promises to be Apple’s ‘biggest’ yet, with a focus on integrating AI-powered capabilities into Siri and the Messages app.
But for owners of iPhones released before 2018, including the SE series and the 8 Plus model or earlier, the news isn’t as exciting. These older devices won’t support iOS 18 due to outdated hardware chips, which lack the processing power and memory required for the new features.
Among the groundbreaking features anticipated in iOS 18 is the integration of Google’s AI Gemini, enabling the creation of images and essays based on simple prompts directly on the iPhone. However, devices equipped with Apple’s A11 Bionic chip (iPhone X, 8, and 8 Plus) or the A10 Fusion chips (iPhone 7 and 7 Plus) won’t be able to effectively support these advanced capabilities.
Here’s a breakdown of compatible and non-compatible iPhones with the iOS 18 update:
iOS 18 Non-Compatible iPhones:
- iPhone 5s
- iPhone 6
- iPhone 6 Plus
- iPhone 7
- iPhone 7 Plus
- iPhone 8
- iPhone 8 Plus
- iPhone SE 1st Gen
iOS 18 Compatible iPhones:
- iPhone XR
- iPhone XS
- iPhone XS Max
- iPhone SE 2nd and 3rd Gen
- iPhone 11, Pro, Max
- iPhone 12, Mini, Pro, Pro Max
- iPhone 13, Mini, Pro, Pro Max
- iPhone 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, 14 Max
- iPhone 15, Plus, Pro, Pro Max
While Apple typically discontinues older iPhone models with new iOS updates, this year’s decision to retain the seven and eight series may disappoint users of these devices.
Apple’s iOS 18 is poised to revolutionize user experiences with enhanced AI features, including improvements to Siri and the Messages app. However, users with incompatible devices may miss out on these advancements, highlighting the importance of staying up-to-date with device compatibility.
The beta test for iOS 18 is expected to roll out in July, with a general release date slated for September 2024. As Apple continues to push the boundaries of innovation, the tech community eagerly awaits the next evolution in iOS.
