Wondering if your phone can run Apple's major software revision? Determining iOS 13 compatible devices matters if you want to keep running current apps and security patches without buying new hardware. Apple dropped support for several older models with this release, leaving millions of users questioning whether their handset made the cut.
The operating system requires an iPhone 6s or newer, meaning phones released in 2014 and 2015 officially reached the end of their primary software upgrade path. Below is the definitive breakdown of which hardware made the list, which models were left behind, and what options you have if your device missed out.
Complete List of Supported iPhones
Apple cut off support for the iPhone 6 generation and older models, but kept devices powered by the A9 chip and newer. If you own one of the following models, you can download and install the software:
- iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro, and iPhone 11 Pro Max
- iPhone XS and iPhone XS Max
- iPhone XR
- iPhone X
- iPhone 8 and iPhone 8 Plus
- iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus
- iPhone 6s and iPhone 6s Plus
- iPhone SE (1st generation)
- iPod touch (7th generation)
Devices Left Behind: Who Missed Out?
When Apple draws the line on software updates, performance limitations hardware-wise dictate the decision. Older processors and lower RAM thresholds cannot handle system-wide features like Dark Mode, advanced photo editing tools, and optimized background app processing.
The most notable legacy models that did not make the compatibility list include:
- iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus
- iPhone 5s
- Older iPod touch generations
If you use one of these legacy handsets, your phone still functions, but it remains locked on iOS 12. Critical security updates continue to roll out for critical bugs, but app developers gradually drop support for older operating systems as APIs evolve. You can review official software guidelines on the Apple Support page.
Transition to iPadOS for Tablets
Apple split the software branding for tablets starting with this generation, moving away from calling tablet software "iOS". Tablets received their own dedicated operating system named iPadOS. The hardware cutoff for tablets dropped the original iPad Air and the iPad mini 2. Compatible tablets include:
- All iPad Pro models
- iPad (5th generation and later)
- iPad Air (2nd generation and later)
- iPad mini (4th generation and later)
What to Do If Your Device Is Incompatible
Finding out your phone didn't make the cut can be frustrating, especially if your hardware still makes phone calls and sends texts just fine. You aren't forced to upgrade immediately, but you should weigh your choices carefully.
- Stay on your current OS: Your phone won't stop working overnight. Apps will continue to function for a while, though developers will eventually require newer software versions.
- Prioritize security backups: Keep your data backed up via iCloud or a computer, as older systems stop receiving standard security patches over time.
- Check trade-in values: If you plan to upgrade, check programs like the Apple Trade In initiative to see if your legacy device holds any residual value toward a newer model.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I force-install this update on an unsupported iPhone like the iPhone 6?
No. Hardware architecture limitations, specifically processor instructions and RAM constraints on the A8 chip, prevent unsupported devices from running the software. Modifying system files to bypass this is unstable and breaks core phone functions.
Will my banking and messaging apps stop working immediately?
Not right away. Most app developers maintain compatibility with older operating systems for one to two years after a new version drops. However, financial and security apps are usually the first to enforce strict minimum OS requirements.
Does updating an older supported phone like the iPhone 6s slow it down?
Performance varies, but Apple optimized memory management in this release to help older devices run smoothly. Features like app launch speeds actually improved on older supported hardware compared to previous software iterations.
Where can I check my exact model number?
Open your Settings app, navigate to General, and tap About. Look for your Model Name and Model Number to confirm your exact hardware generation before downloading any updates.
