During WWDC on Monday, June 5, Apple unveiled its latest software updates for iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple Watch. Alongside these announcements, they also introduced the new MacBook Air and Apple Vision Pro, a high-end mixed-reality headset.
While the release of new software is usually exciting, it can also bring disappointment for some Apple device owners. Not all older devices can handle the increased demands of new features, resulting in limited compatibility with the latest operating system. This fall, the iPhone 15 series will be able to run iOS 17, but there are three models that won’t receive the update.
The iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus, and iPhone X, which were initially sold in 2017, will not be able to enjoy the new features of the upcoming software release. While these devices will continue to function as they currently do and receive security updates, they will miss out on the exciting enhancements iOS 17 brings.
Some notable features of iOS 17 include Contact Posters, allowing customization of how you appear on another iPhone’s screen during a call, and StandBy, which provides information while your phone is charging and placed on its side. Another interesting addition is NameDrop, which facilitates contact details transfer by simply bringing two iPhones close together.
On a positive note, it’s worth mentioning that only one year’s worth of iPhones will become incompatible. When Apple transitioned from iOS 15 to iOS 16, devices like the iPhone 6s, iPhone 6s Plus, iPhone 7, and iPhone 7 Plus were no longer supported.
However, if you own an iPhone X, iPhone 8, or iPhone 8 Plus, it’s unfortunate news as they won’t receive the iOS 17 update.
To put your mind at ease, here is the full list of iPhones that will be eligible for the iOS 17 update in the fall.
- 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 (2nd generation or later)
The upcoming software update brings a plethora of exciting features to anticipate. One notable addition is the ability to download maps for offline use in the Maps app. This feature proves particularly useful when you’re traveling abroad and wish to avoid excessive roaming charges. Now, you can access maps without relying on continuous expensive data connections.
Another area receiving significant updates is the Health app, which acknowledges the significance of mental health alongside physical well-being. With a focus on holistic wellness, the Health app will offer enhanced functionality and features to support mental health monitoring and management.
Additionally, an improvement to the virtual personal assistant, Siri, will simplify interaction. Instead of having to say “Hey Siri” to get Siri’s attention, a simple “Siri” will suffice, streamlining the process of engaging with the assistant.
These updates, among others, promise to enhance user experience and provide valuable functionalities to Apple device owners.
