Highlights
- All iPhones that currently support iOS 17 are set to receive the iOS 18 update.
- iPadOS 18 to discontinue support for certain older iPad models including the 6th Gen iPad and some iPad Pros.
- iPhones ranging from iPhone SE 2nd Generation to the upcoming iPhone 15 series eligible for iOS 18.
- iPad compatibility with iPadOS 18 starts from 2019 models and includes newer versions of iPad mini, iPad Air, and iPad Pro.
Apple is gearing up to introduce iOS 18 at its annual developer conference in June, alongside updates across its product range.
As the launch approaches, speculation is mounting over which iPhone and iPad models will be eligible for the new updates.
Traditionally, Apple phases out support for older devices, and this year is no exception.
Interestingly, while all iPhones currently supporting iOS 17 are expected to receive iOS 18, some older iPads are set to lose compatibility with the upcoming iPadOS 18.
Upcoming iOS and iPadOS Support
According to a reliable source cited by 9to5mac, the list of devices slated to receive iOS 18 and
iPadOS 18 has been outlined, showing once again Apple’s ongoing commitment to supporting devices several years post-launch.
The following iPads are confirmed to retain compatibility with iPadOS 18:
- iPads released in 2019 and later
- iPad mini (2019 and newer models)
- iPad Air (2019 and newer models)
- iPad Pro models starting from 2018 onwards
Certain iPad models are being excluded from the update:
- 6th Generation iPad
- 2nd Generation 12.9-inch iPad Pro
- 5-inch iPad Pro
Conversely, The exclusion of the 10.5-inch and 12.9-inch iPad Pro models, despite being equipped with the powerful A10X Fusion chip, raises questions.
This decision is especially curious given that the 7th generation iPad, running on the A10 Fusion chip, will continue to receive support for iPadOS 18.
iPhones Ready for iOS 18
- iPhone 15 series, including the base model, Plus, Pro, and Pro Max
- iPhone 14 series, from the standard model to the Pro Max
- iPhone 13 series, including the mini, Pro, and Pro Max versions
- iPhone 12 range, covering both the mini and Pro Max
- iPhone 11 along with the Pro and Pro Max variants
- iPhone XR, XS, and XS Max
- iPhone SE 2nd and 3rd Generation
This lineup reaffirms Apple’s policy of supporting iPhones for approximately five years after their release, ensuring users receive the latest features and security updates.
FAQs
Which iPhone models will receive the iOS 18 update?
Every iPhone model that supports iOS 17, from the iPhone SE 2nd Generation up to the latest iPhone 15 series, is expected to be eligible for the iOS 18 update, continuing Apple’s tradition of supporting devices for about five years post-launch.
Are all iPad models compatible with the upcoming iPadOS 18?
No, the iPadOS 18 update will not support some older iPad models, including the 6th Generation iPad and certain iPad Pro versions. Supported iPads include those released in 2019 and later, covering the newer iPad mini, iPad Air, and iPad Pro models.
Why are some iPad models losing support with iPadOS 18?
Apple periodically updates its software support list based on hardware capabilities and the need for more powerful processing for new features. While not specified, the older iPads likely do not meet the hardware requirements for the new iPadOS 18 features.
How can users prepare their device for the iOS 18 or iPadOS 18 update?
Users should ensure their devices are backed up, have sufficient storage space, and are running the latest supported version of iOS or iPadOS. Staying informed about the official release date and compatibility list from Apple is also crucial.
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