Breaking News: Apple Drops iOS Progressive Numbering, iPhone XR, XS, and XS Max Excluded from iOS 26
Apple has announced a significant shift in its mobile operating system strategy. The company is abandoning the historical progressive numbering of iOS, with the next update, iOS 26, aligning with the current calendar year. This change is purely formal and does not affect Apple’s policy on device compatibility.
Device Compatibility and Exclusions
The list of iPhones that can install iOS 26 closely follows that of iOS 17 and iOS 18, with a few notable exceptions. The iPhone XR, XS, and XS Max, all released in 2018 and powered by the A12 Bionic chip, will be excluded from the new update. This decision does not seem to be linked to new artificial intelligence features but rather to a renewal of the user interface known as “Solarium” or “alive glass.”
The new design introduces complex graphic elements such as transparencies, fluid animations, and floating menus, which would be too heavy for older hardware to manage. Devices with the A12 chip, offering just 4 GB of RAM and a less powerful GPU, would struggle to provide a fluid experience with these new features.
Security Updates and App Compatibility
Despite their exclusion from new features, these models will continue to receive security updates to ensure system stability and data protection. Apple has promised to provide security updates for six years, a commitment that remains intact. Additionally, popular apps like WhatsApp and YouTube will maintain compatibility with previous versions of iOS, ensuring users can continue using their devices without limitations.
iOS 26 Presentation
The new iOS 26 update will be officially presented on June 10, 2025, during the opening of the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC). This annual event is a key platform for Apple to unveil its latest software innovations and set the stage for the coming year in technology.
Historical Context and Future Implications
Apple’s decision to align iOS versions with the calendar year is a departure from its previous strategy. Historically, the company has used progressive numbering to indicate incremental updates, but this change signals a new approach to versioning. This shift could influence how other tech giants handle software updates, potentially leading to more intuitive versioning systems for users.
For users of older iPhones, this news may be bittersweet. While they will no longer receive the latest features, they can rest assured that their devices will continue to receive essential security updates. This balance between innovation and support is a hallmark of Apple’s approach to hardware and software lifecycle management.
In the ever-evolving landscape of technology, staying informed about these changes is crucial. archyde.com will continue to bring you the latest updates and insights to help you navigate the world of tech with confidence.
Stay tuned for more breaking news and in-depth analysis as we approach the WWDC 2025 and the official release of iOS 26.
