Apple's upcoming iOS 19 update promises significant changes to the iPhone experience, but not all devices will receive this major software refresh. Meanwhile, security concerns for older models highlight the importance of keeping devices updated regardless of their age.
iOS 19 Will Drop Support for Several iPhone Models
Apple's next major operating system update, iOS 19, is reportedly set to be one of the most substantial updates in iPhone history. According to analyst Mark Gurman, the update will overhaul various aspects of the interface, potentially incorporating design elements inspired by visionOS with transparent, glass-like effects. However, this update will come at a cost for owners of older devices, as Apple is expected to drop support for all iPhones powered by the A12 Bionic chip.
iPhone XR, XS, and XS Max Will Not Receive iOS 19
The compatibility cut-off for iOS 19 will exclude the iPhone XR, iPhone XS, and iPhone XS Max from receiving the update. These devices, all powered by Apple's A12 Bionic chip, will remain on iOS 18 as their final major operating system version. This continues Apple's pattern of gradually phasing out support for older hardware while maintaining a relatively generous support window compared to many Android manufacturers.
iPhones Not Compatible with iOS 19:
- iPhone XR
- iPhone XS
- iPhone XS Max (All powered by A12 Bionic chip)
iPhones Compatible with iOS 19:
- iPhone 16e
- iPhone 16
- iPhone 16 Plus
- iPhone 16 Pro
- iPhone 16 Pro Max
- iPhone 15 series (all models)
- iPhone 14 series (all models)
- iPhone 13 series (all models)
- iPhone 12 series (all models)
- iPhone 11 series (all models)
- iPhone SE (2nd generation and newer)
Compatible iPhone Models for iOS 19
The iOS 19 update will be compatible with a wide range of devices, including the upcoming iPhone 16 series, the current iPhone 15 lineup, iPhone 14 series, iPhone 13 models, iPhone 12 series, iPhone 11 family, and the second-generation iPhone SE or newer. While all these devices will receive the core update, Apple is expected to limit some advanced features—particularly Apple Intelligence capabilities—to more recent models with sufficient processing power.
Security Updates for Older iPhones Are Critical
While newer iPhones will get iOS 19, Apple has emphasized the importance of security updates for older devices as well. The company recently released security patches for devices running iOS 17, iOS 16, and even iOS 15, addressing vulnerabilities that were being actively exploited in real-world attacks. These updates fix critical security flaws, including one in Apple's CoreMedia that could allow malicious applications to elevate privileges, and another in WebKit that could break out of the Web Content sandbox.
Recent Security Updates for Older iPhones:
- iPadOS 17.7.6: Fixes 30+ flaws including CVE-2025-24085 (actively exploited)
- iOS 16.7.11: Fixes CVE-2025-24200 (physical attack vulnerability) and CVE-2025-24201 (WebKit vulnerability)
- iOS 15.8.4: Addresses same WebKit and Accessibility flaws for devices that can't run iOS 16
Important Dates:
- WWDC 2025: June 9, 2025 (iOS 19 announcement)
Apple Prioritizes Security for Newer Devices
An interesting pattern has emerged in Apple's update strategy: security fixes often reach newer devices running iOS 18 significantly earlier than older models. In some cases, vulnerabilities were patched on newer iPhones up to two months before updates were issued for older devices. This timing difference highlights the security advantages of using more recent hardware and software combinations, though Apple continues to provide important security updates for devices that can't run the latest operating systems.
WWDC 2025 Will Reveal Full Details
Apple has announced that its Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) will take place on June 9, 2025, where the company will officially unveil iOS 19 alongside iPadOS 19, macOS 16, watchOS 12, visionOS 3, and tvOS 19. At this event, we'll learn more about the specific features and improvements coming to compatible devices, as well as any last-minute changes to the compatibility list.
Update Recommendations for All iPhone Users
Whether your iPhone will receive iOS 19 or remain on an older version, security experts strongly recommend installing all available updates promptly. For devices that can run iOS 18, upgrading provides the most comprehensive protection. For older devices, installing the latest available security patches is essential to protect against known vulnerabilities that are actively being exploited. To update your device, simply navigate to Settings > General > Software Update and follow the prompts to download and install the latest version available for your iPhone.
