iOS 18 and iPadOS 18 compatibility explained: which models are supported? axel.metz@futurenet.com (Axel Metz) | usagoldmines.com

Both iOS 18 and iPadOS 18 are now available to download, but which iPhone and iPad models are supported by Apple’s latest updates?

Helpfully, Apple has confirmed the device requirements for iOS 18 and iPadOS 18, so below, we’ve listed every supported iPhone and iPad. If your device supports the software, it will be compatible with all subsequent versions of iOS 18 and iPadOS 18 (e.g. iOS 18.4 and iPadOS 18.4), too.

We also have details on which iOS 18 and iPadOS 18 features aren’t available on every device, since Apple is restricting certain tools to newer Apple chipsets.

iOS 18 compatibility

Apple has confirmed that all iPhone models including and newer than the iPhone XS (i.e. any iPhone with the A12 Bionic chipset or better) are compatible with iOS 18. Incidentally, that’s the same eligibility criteria as iOS 17, so if you’re currently running Apple’s last-generation flagship software, you’ll be able to download iOS 18, too.

The full list of iOS 18-compatible iPhones is as follows:

• iPhone 16e
• iPhone 16
• iPhone 16 Plus
• iPhone 16 Pro
• iPhone 16 Pro Max
• iPhone 15
• iPhone 15 Plus
• iPhone 15 Pro
• iPhone 15 Pro Max
• iPhone 14
• iPhone 14 Plus
• iPhone 14 Pro
• iPhone 14 Pro Max
• iPhone 13
• iPhone 13 mini
• iPhone 13 Pro
• iPhone 13 Pro Max
• iPhone 12
• iPhone 12 mini
• iPhone 12 Pro
• iPhone 12 Pro Max
• iPhone 11
• iPhone 11 Pro
• iPhone 11 Pro Max
• iPhone XS
• iPhone XS Max
• iPhone XR
• iPhone SE (2020)
• iPhone SE (2022)

iPadOS 18 compatibility

Almost all iPad models are available in multiple sizes, as well as Wi-Fi-only and Wi-Fi + Cellular configurations, so in the interest of readability, we’ve grouped the below list of iPadOS 18-compatible models into dated categories:

• iPad Pro models from 2018 and later (3rd generation onwards)
• iPad Air models from 2019 and later (3rd generation onwards)
• iPad models from 2020 and later (8th generation onwards)
• iPad mini models from 2019 and later (5th generation onwards)

Unlike with iOS 17, not every iPad that runs iPadOS 17 is compatible with iPadOS 18. Specifically, Apple has dropped support for the iPad Pro 10.5-inch (2017), the iPad Pro 12.9-inch (2017), and the iPad 9.7-inch (2018). 

Feature compatibility

Not every iOS 18 and iPadOS 18-compatible iPhone and iPad can benefit from every iOS 18 and iPadOS 18 feature.

Apple Intelligence features, for instance, are exclusive to devices running Apple’s M-series, A18, A18 Pro, and A17 Pro chipsets, while the Messages via Satellite tool is limited to the iPhone 14 series and newer.

Below, we’ve detailed a list of exclusive iOS 18 and iPadOS 18 features, alongside their respective device requirements. 

Apple Intelligence features notwithstanding, we’ve only been able to track down information relating to iPhone compatibility, but we’ll be updating the list with iPad compatibility once we’ve been able to confirm that information with Apple.

• Apple Intelligence features – iPhone 16 series, iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max and M1-equipped iPad and Mac models (or newer)
• Messages via Satellite – iPhone 14 or newer
• Audio transcription in Notes – iPhone 12 or newer
• Eye tracking – iPhone 12 or newer
• Music Haptics – iPhone 12 or newer
• Wireless smart lock opening – iPhone 11 or newer
• Enhance Dialogue feature in Apple TV – iPhone 11 or newer

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