Apple's New Software Update: What Devices Will Be Left Behind?

Apple's upcoming iOS 26, iPadOS 26, and macOS 26 updates may drop support for several devices, including iPhone XS, XS Max, XR, iPad (7th generation), 2020 MacBook Air with Intel, 2018 MacBook Pro, 2018 Mac mini, and 2017 iMac Pro. These lists are not final and some devices may still support the new software, but not have access to new features.

Apple is preparing to release its next major software updates, iOS 26, iPadOS 26, and macOS 26, which are expected to be announced at the upcoming WWDC'25 developer summit on June 9. According to recent rumors, these updates may drop support for several older devices, potentially impacting a significant portion of Apple's user base.

Potential Device Support Changes

- iPhone XS, XS Max, XR: These models, released in 2018, may not receive the new software updates. They are among the oldest devices still in support, using a 7nm Apple A12 Bionic chip, which is considered outdated by today's standards.
- iPad (7th Generation): The 7th generation iPad, released in 2019, may also be excluded from the update list.
- 2020 MacBook Air with Intel: The 2020 MacBook Air, which uses Intel processors, may not receive the new macOS update.
- 2018 MacBook Pro, 2018 Mac mini, 2017 iMac Pro: These models may also be excluded from the update list.

Impact on Users

The potential exclusion of these devices from the new software updates could have significant implications for users. Older devices may no longer receive critical security updates, bug fixes, and new features, potentially rendering them less secure and less functional over time. This could lead to a decrease in user satisfaction and an increase in the number of users looking to upgrade to newer devices.

Apple's Perspective

Apple has not officially confirmed these changes, and the final list of supported devices may still vary. However, Apple has a history of dropping support for older devices after a certain period, a practice that has been criticized by some users but is a common strategy in the tech industry.

Financial Implications

The potential support changes could have financial implications for Apple. On one hand, they could encourage users to upgrade to newer devices, potentially increasing sales. On the other hand, they could also lead to a decrease in user satisfaction and an increase in customer support costs.

Conclusion

Apple's upcoming iOS 26, iPadOS 26, and macOS 26 updates may drop support for several older devices, including the iPhone XS, XS Max, XR, iPad (7th generation), 2020 MacBook Air with Intel, 2018 MacBook Pro, 2018 Mac mini, and 2017 iMac Pro. While the final list of supported devices may still vary, these potential changes could have significant implications for users and Apple's financial performance. As always, Apple has not officially confirmed these changes, so it is essential to wait for the official announcement at WWDC'25.

References

[1] https://www.phonearena.com/ios-26-release-date-features-news-compatible-iphones