Apple just confirmed at WWDC 2025 that iOS drops support for iPhone XR, XS, and XS MAX, officially making the A12 chip obsolete. They ended a 7-year run and left millions of people facing a tough choice to upgrade or risk running outdated devices.
The A13 chip in the iPhone 11 is now the new baseline, and older models won’t get Apple Intelligence features or updates. This guide will break down what survives and what’s dead and how to future-proof your case strategy ahead of the iPhone 17 launch.
iOS 26 Compatibility Exposed
The Technical Truth Behind the Dropped Devices: A12’s Final Chapter
Full List of Surviving Devices: Is Yours Included?
iPhone 17 Rumors: Upgrade Momentum & Case Revolution
Case Buying Guide: For Old, Current, and Future iPhones
User Action Framework: Strategies for 5 User Types
Conclusion: Ecosystem Evolution & User Winners
The Technical Truth Behind the Dropped Devices: A12’s Final Chapter
Before we dive into the list of iOS 26-supported devices, let’s understand why specific models didn't make the cut:
1. Performance Limitations
The A12 Bionic chip falls short, and its neural engine is about 40% weaker than A13, which makes it unsuitable for iOS A26’s AI features. With only 4GB of RAM, it struggles to handle real-time processing and advanced multitasking.
2. Security Concerns
While XR and XS models will still get security patches, they are permanently cut off from feature updates. This means no access to future iOS innovations or Apple Intelligence capabilities.
3. Impact on Cases
With these models officially discontinued, users are rapidly upgrading their phones, which is causing a steep drop in demand for cases. It leads to faster depreciation in the used cases market and leaves many accessories unsellable.
Full List of Surviving Devices: Is Yours Included?
Whether you’re holding on to an older iPhone or planning to upgrade to an iPhone 17, with MagSafe cases, understanding which models support iOS 26 is key. The chart below highlights the main supported devices and their Apple Intelligence compatibility:
|
Model |
Release Year |
Chip |
iOS 26 Support |
|
iPhone 11 |
2019 |
A13 Bionic |
Core Features |
|
iPhone SE (2nd) |
2020 |
A13 Bionic |
Core Features |
|
iPhone 12 |
2020 |
A14 Bionic |
Core Features |
|
iPhone 13 |
2021 |
A15 Bionic |
Core Features |
|
iPhone SE (3rd) |
2022 |
A15 Bionic |
Core Features |
|
iPhone 14 Pro |
2022 |
A16 Bionic |
Partial AI Support |
|
iPhone 15 Pro |
2023 |
A17 Bionic |
Full Support |
|
iPhone 16 |
2024 |
A18 Bionic |
Full Support |
Hidden Limitations & Key Notes
● While iPhone 11 can run iOS 26, all Apple intelligence features are ripped and confirmed by device benchmarks and expert reports.
● Only A17 Pro or newer chips (iPhone 15 Pro, 16 series, and upcoming 17) support the full Apple Intelligence AI suite.
● Devices with A14-A16 chips get full iOS 26, but none of the advanced AI features, which means a sleek new look without Siri’s AI-enhanced powers.
iPhone 17 Rumors: Upgrade Momentum & Case Revolution
With iPhone 17 just around the corner, leaks point to some of the biggest hardware leaps, which sparks a wave of upgrades in the major case design. From fast Qi 2.2 wireless charging to brand new camera layout, here is a breakdown of what’s rumored and how it reshapes the future:
Full Compatibility Breakdown: Which Devices Still Get Support?
|
Feature Category |
Rumored Upgrade / Change |
|
Display Upgrade |
120Hz LTPO across all models smoother UI, reduced eye strain |
|
Performance Boost |
A19 Pro chip + 12GB RAM 70% faster, supports advanced on-device AI |
|
Charging |
50W MagSafe wireless charging Qi2.2 protocol, double the speed |
|
Camera Layout |
New magnetic ring alignment required Redesigned iPhone 17 MagSafe cases |
|
Design Changes |
Horizontal camera matrix First major layout shift since iPhone X |
|
AI Capability |
Ultra-thin body (as slim as 5.5mm) Slimmer cases, heat management optimized |
|
MagSafe Compatibility |
Local model support Full Apple Intelligence features unlocked |
Case Adaptation Needs
The new 17 series model is expected to feature an ultra-slim 5.5mm design, a horizontal camera matrix, and 50W MagSafe charging. These upgrades demand a more brilliant case design that guarantees protection and charging support. Brands like ESR are already stepping up and developing next-gen ultra-slim MagSafe cases built for what’s coming next.
Case Buying Guide: For Old, Current, and Future iPhones
Whether you are holding onto the older iPhone or planning to upgrade soon, choosing the right case has never been more critical. Especially with the upcoming iPhone 17 MagSafe case, here is a table categorized from old to new with recommendations:
|
iPhone Status |
Recommendations |
Tips |
|
Discontinued (XR, XS) |
Go for basic, non-MagSafe cases to save money |
These models won’t get iOS 26 or new features, as resale value is dropping fast, so avoid investing in premium accessories. |
|
iPhone 11–14 |
Use MagSafe-compatible cases with 15W support(Excluding the iPhone 11 series) |
Still supported under iOS 26, but missing Apple Intelligence. Thus, stick with reliable MagSafe cases while waiting for the next upgrade. |
|
Preparing for iPhone 17 |
Pick Qi2.2-ready cases with 50W MagSafe support Choose ultra-slim yet strong materials like aramid fiber or ceramic |
iPhone 17 will feature a thin 5.5mm build and a horizontal camera layout, so your case must match these specs and enable faster charging. |
User Action Framework: Strategies for 5 User Types
With features like Qi2.2 wireless charging and AI-focused performance, shaping the next generation of iPhone, it's time to rethink your upgrades. Here is a breakdown of what each type of user should do next:
1. iPhone XR/XS Owners
Now is the time to sell as resale value is at its peak before iOS 26 phases these models out. If you are eyeing the iPhone 17, consider a compatible MagSafe case to stay ahead of demand and ensure protection from day one.
2. iPhone 11–14 Users
You are still supported on iOS 26 but are missing Apple Intelligence. Delay the upgrade now and invest in an enhanced MagSafe case (15W), which you can get from ESR, to keep your accessories working smoothly.
3. AI-Heavy Users
If you rely on Apple’s Intelligence features, your best move is the iPhone 15 Pro or the upcoming 17 series. Pair it with a rugged case, something like mil-spec grade, with strong MagSafe performance and dissipation support.
Conclusion: Ecosystem Evolution & User Winners
In conclusion, Apple is drawing a line between old and new, pushing users towards faster and smarter devices. If you are still using an A12 chip, an obsolete model that has already died, it's time to move on. For everyone else, now is the moment to look to the future-proof with the right upgrade plan and next-gen case, because in the evolving ecosystem, only preparation will win. Do not forget to buy your favorite phone protector cases from ESR, and do use our coupon code “blog20” for some exclusive discounts!