Apple is anticipated to extend support for its upcoming iOS 18 update to older iPhone models, including the iPhone XR, iPhone XS Max, and iPhone XS. The leak suggests that iOS 18 will maintain compatibility with the same devices currently running iOS 17, offering users with older iPhones the opportunity to enjoy the latest features and enhancements.
The leak, initially shared by Aaron (@aaronp613) and reported by MacRumors, indicates that iOS 18 will be compatible with models from the iPhone XR onwards. This includes the second-generation iPhone SE, iPhone XS, and iPhone XS Max, alongside newer models such as the iPhone 15 series, iPhone 14 series, iPhone 13 series, and iPhone 12 series.
NEW: A source with a proven track record of leaking build numbers for upcoming iOS updates says that iOS 18 will support the same iPhone models as iOS 17, meaning that the iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, and iPhone XR would live another year!
Story credit: @aaronp613 https://t.co/Bqvc6hJaLa
— Joe Rossignol (@rsgnl) February 27, 2024
If the leak holds true, a wide range of devices spanning multiple iPhone generations will be eligible for the iOS 18 update. This news is likely to be welcomed by users who own older iPhone models, ensuring they can continue to receive software updates and access new features.
Apple is expected to unveil iOS 18 at its annual Worldwide Developer Conference (WWDC) in June, with a potential release to the public in September alongside the rumored iPhone 16 series. The upcoming iOS iteration is anticipated to introduce advancements in artificial intelligence (AI), potentially integrating features such as Rich Communication Services (RCS) for messaging and borrowing UI elements from visionOS.