Apple enthusiasts with older devices might soon face a compatibility shift as reports suggest that iOS 26, iPadOS 26, and macOS 26 could discontinue support for a range of past models. This anticipated move aligns with Apple’s typical strategy of phasing out support for older hardware to optimize performance and introduce new features that require more advanced processing capabilities.
According to recent information, a significant number of iPads released before 2018 are likely to be excluded from receiving the iPadOS 26 update. This potential change means that users with these older tablet models may no longer receive new features, security patches, or performance improvements after the next software release.
The Mac lineup is also expected to see some models dropped from the macOS 26 compatibility list. Devices such as the 2018 MacBook Pro, the 2019 iMac, the 2017 iMac Pro, and the Intel-based 2020 MacBook Air are among those that might not be eligible for the next major desktop operating system. This development could prompt users of these machines to consider upgrading to newer hardware to access the latest software innovations and security enhancements.
While the current reports provide clear indications for iPads and Macs, specific iPhone models that may lose support with iOS 26 have not yet been detailed. However, following past patterns, it is reasonable to expect that some older iPhone models will eventually reach the end of their software support cycle.
For users of these older devices, the discontinuation of software updates typically means that while the devices will continue to function, they will not receive new features, performance optimizations, or critical security updates, which could leave them vulnerable to emerging threats over time. This ongoing cycle underscores the technology industry’s rapid pace of innovation and the eventual obsolescence of even popular devices.