Apple’s iOS 19 is set to follow a user-friendly trend, continuing the pattern of supporting a broad range of older iPhone models that was established with iOS 18. According to a recent report from iPhoneSoft.fr, which cites an unnamed source within Apple, iOS 19 will support every iPhone currently running iOS 18, which means that devices from the iPhone XR, XS, and XS Max (released in September 2018) will be able to run the latest software update. If this holds true, it will mark a second consecutive year where Apple has avoided cutting off older models, a decision that bodes well for users with older devices looking to avoid the need for a costly upgrade.
While some may argue that iPhones from 2018 might soon show their age in terms of performance, this strategy represents Apple’s recognition of the longer life cycles that many customers expect from their devices. Users of iPhones as old as the iPhone XR, which is now over six years old, will continue to have access to the latest iOS features, ensuring that their devices don’t become obsolete as quickly as they might with other smartphone brands. However, as with previous updates, it’s likely that certain new iOS 19 features may not be available to these older models due to hardware limitations, especially when it comes to demanding tasks like advanced processing or augmented reality features.
This move is part of a broader trend in Apple's software updates, which have increasingly sought to prioritize device longevity. The iPhone XS and XS Max models, despite being launched in 2018, are still able to run iOS 18 and will also support iOS 19. It’s a notable departure from older practices, where Apple would often cut off support for devices just a few years old, making users feel the pressure to upgrade regularly. This shift is likely a response to consumer demand for longer-lasting devices, particularly as people have become more cost-conscious and environmentally aware of the waste caused by frequent smartphone replacements.
Moreover, it’s important to note that while iOS 19 will likely support a broad range of iPhones, the newer iPhone models (such as the iPhone 15 and any upcoming 2025 releases) will likely receive exclusive features that older models can’t access. This isn’t unusual for Apple, as new hardware often enables specific features that require higher performance. However, the fact that older iPhones still get access to much of the core functionality is a win for consumers who prefer to hold onto their devices longer.
Additionally, this approach aligns with Apple's recent strategy with iOS 18, which did not drop support for any devices compared to iOS 17, which excluded the iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus, and iPhone X. By maintaining compatibility across several years' worth of models, Apple is fostering a sense of consistency and reliability, which is crucial for user retention and satisfaction. It also helps Apple stand out in an industry where planned obsolescence is a common practice.
For iPad users, however, the situation is somewhat different. According to the same report, iPadOS 19 will be dropping support for the iPad 7, which was first launched in 2019. While the iPad 7 is a relatively recent model, Apple’s policy of supporting only devices that meet the necessary hardware requirements could be a reason for this change. However, most of the other iPads that currently run iPadOS 18 will be able to upgrade to iPadOS 19, meaning that most iPad users won’t be left out of the next update, but the iPad 7 will be an unfortunate exception.
As anticipation builds for iOS 19, the first public beta of the operating system is expected to roll out during Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) in June 2025, where developers and early adopters will be able to test the software before its official release. The final, stable version of iOS 19 is expected to launch in September 2025, alongside Apple’s newest hardware releases, including the next generation of iPhones. This timeline aligns with Apple's established tradition of releasing major iOS updates every fall, offering a fresh set of features and improvements for users around the world.
While Apple has kept tight-lipped about the new features coming with iOS 19, some rumors are already circulating about potential enhancements. One of the most intriguing possibilities is a major update to Siri, Apple’s voice assistant. According to reports, iOS 19.4 could introduce a more conversational Siri, powered by natural language processing algorithms similar to those seen in ChatGPT. This would enable Siri to handle more complex and nuanced requests, making it feel more like a personal assistant than a robotic command responder. If the rumors prove true, this update could arrive around March 2026, and might represent one of the most significant upgrades to Siri in years.
As the software landscape continues to evolve, it’s clear that iOS 19 will play a pivotal role in shaping Apple’s ecosystem moving forward. The company’s decision to continue supporting older iPhones is a move that could boost customer satisfaction and longevity while ensuring that users don’t feel the need to constantly upgrade their devices to enjoy the latest software. The fact that older models are still able to run the most up-to-date software means that Apple is focused on retaining a loyal customer base, while still providing ample incentive for new customers to purchase the latest devices to experience exclusive features.
With the launch of iOS 19 just around the corner, it’s an exciting time for Apple fans, who will be eager to see what the company has in store. Whether it’s improvements to Siri, new features for privacy, or innovations in augmented reality, iOS 19 promises to continue Apple’s legacy of setting the standard for mobile operating systems.
