The rumor mill has been buzzing, and now it's official: Apple is shaking things up with its operating system naming convention! Moving forward, we're stepping into the era of iOS 26, iPadOS 26, and so on, aligning the software release with the upcoming calendar year. This means the highly anticipated update launching in September 2025 will be known as iOS 26, and it's bringing a host of exciting new features and a significant design overhaul.

So, what can you expect from iOS 26? Prepare for a sleek, glass-inspired aesthetic across the entire ecosystem, a major redesign since iOS 7. Beyond the visual refresh, Apple is focusing on enhanced Apple Intelligence features, with deeper Siri integration, potential live translation with AirPods, and even AI-powered battery management. You might also see improvements to core apps like Messages (think automatic translations and polls!), Music (full-screen animated album art on the Lock Screen!), and Notes (Markdown export!). CarPlay is also slated for a UI update to match the new iOS 26 design language.

But the big question on everyone's mind is: Will your current iPhone or iPad be able to run iOS 26?

While Apple is known for its strong software support, older devices eventually reach their end-of-life for major updates. Based on the latest whispers and reliable predictions, here's a breakdown of which models are likely to make the cut for iOS 26:

Important Note: Even if your device supports iOS 26, some of the more advanced Apple Intelligence features might require newer hardware, particularly the latest A-series chips, for optimal performance.

Supported iPad Models for iPadOS 26

As with iPhones, certain advanced features within iPadOS 26 may be optimized for newer iPad models with more powerful chipsets.

What to Do If Your Device Isn't Supported

If your iPhone or iPad is listed as "Contested" or "No" in the compatibility table, it means that while you can continue to use your device, you won't receive the latest software updates, including new features, security patches, and performance enhancements. This is typically a good indicator that it might be time to consider upgrading to a newer model to enjoy the full capabilities and ongoing support of Apple's ecosystem.

iOS 26 promises to be a significant leap forward in Apple's software experience. Get ready for a refreshed look, smarter features, and a more integrated experience across your Apple devices! We'll keep you updated as more official details emerge closer to WWDC 2025 and the full release in September.