Apple is preparing to showcase iOS 19, the upcoming version of its iPhone operating system, at the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) 2025 scheduled for June. Ahead of this event, a recent report has emerged outlining the anticipated compatibility list for the new update, indicating that the tech giant from Cupertino may discontinue support for the iPhone XR and several other iPhone models. This could imply that these devices will not be eligible for the latest OS release from Apple.
Expected Supported Models for iOS 19
According to a confidential account on X (formerly known as Twitter), recognized for its accuracy in reporting iOS compatibility, 9to5Mac has indicated that the iOS 19 update may drop support for the iPhone XR, iPhone XS, and iPhone XS Max. These models, which debuted at Apple’s September 2018 event, all feature the A12 Bionic chipset. Consequently, it appears likely that Apple will discontinue support for devices utilizing this chipset.
Should this speculation prove to be true, iPhone 11 and subsequent models, along with the iPhone SE (2020) and newer, would be eligible for the iOS 19 upgrade. Nonetheless, it’s important to recognize that not every compatible handset will feature the same functionalities. For example, Apple’s AI suite, known as Apple Intelligence, launched last year remains exclusive to the iPhone 16 series and the iPhone 15 Pro models, which are equipped with the A17 Pro SoC and higher.
In addition, the report suggests that Apple might also drop support for one specific iPad model. The seventh generation iPad, released in 2019 and powered by the A10 Fusion chip, is expected to miss out on the forthcoming iPadOS 19 update.
This development contrasts with earlier reports that indicated all iPhone models currently running iOS 18 would be compatible with iOS 19. It is essential to remember that there is still a significant period before the official rollout of the update, which may allow Apple to alter its plans. Therefore, it is wise to approach this information with some caution.