Apple’s iOS updates are always big news for tech fans and iPhone users. They’re especially important if you’re buying or selling a second-hand iPhone. Each update brings new features to some models, while others get left behind.
In this article, we’ll cover which iPhones will get the iOS 18 update and which won’t. This guide will help you make smart choices when shopping for second-hand iPhones at CompAsia, the leading e-store for second-hand gadgets in the Philippines.
What’s New in iOS 18?
Before we get to the list of supported iPhones, let’s quickly explore what iOS 18 brings. Unveiled at WWDC 2024, it offers AI-powered features and a more customizable interface.
Key features include:
- Apple Intelligence - A suite of AI tools in Siri, Messages, Photos, and more. It adds personalized experiences like smarter photo sorting and custom emojis (Genmojis).
- Customize Your Home Screen - More flexibility in arranging apps, widgets, and controls.
- Improved Siri - Now context-aware and able to handle more natural language requests.
- Enhanced Messaging - Effects for texts and emojis in iMessage.
- Photos App Overhaul - A new design for easier photo organization.
However, not every iPhone will be able to support these new features, and some older models won’t be compatible with iOS 18 at all.
iPhone Models That Will Get iOS 18
If you're looking to buy a second-hand iPhone, it’s helpful to know which models will support iOS 18. Apple supports older devices longer than most manufacturers, typically providing at least five years of iOS updates. This extended support makes second-hand iPhones a smart investment.
Here are the iPhone models that will receive the iOS 18 update:
iPhone 16 Series
- iPhone 16
- iPhone 16 Plus
- iPhone 16 Pro
- iPhone 16 Pro Max
The latest iPhone 16 series comes with iOS 18 pre-installed. These models will also fully support Apple Intelligence for a smooth AI experience.
iPhone 15 Series
- iPhone 15
- iPhone 15 Plus
- iPhone 15 Pro
- iPhone 15 Pro Max
The iPhone 15 series will also support iOS 18 and many of its key features. However, Apple Intelligence is limited to Pro models due to hardware constraints.
iPhone 14 Series
- iPhone 14
- iPhone 14 Plus
- iPhone 14 Pro
- iPhone 14 Pro Max
These models remain powerful in 2024. iOS 18 enhances their software, making the iPhone 14 series a great choice for strong performance without the latest price tag.
iPhone 13 Series
- iPhone 13
- iPhone 13 mini
- iPhone 13 Pro
- iPhone 13 Pro Max
The iPhone 13 series is still a solid option, especially the compact iPhone 13 mini. They will receive iOS 18, but the most advanced AI features may be limited.
iPhone 12 Series
- iPhone 12
- iPhone 12 mini
- iPhone 12 Pro
- iPhone 12 Pro Max
With the A14 Bionic chip, the iPhone 12 series can handle iOS 18’s features well. The iPhone 12 lineup is a reliable choice for second-hand devices.
iPhone 11 Series
- iPhone 11
- iPhone 11 Pro
- iPhone 11 Pro Max
These models are still fast and capable. They have great cameras and battery life. They may not support all AI features, but they will run iOS 18 smoothly.
iPhone XS and XR
- iPhone XS
- iPhone XS Max
- iPhone XR
These models are showing their age but will still receive the iOS 18 update. If you're on a budget, the iPhone XR is one of the most affordable options that will support iOS 18.
iPhone SE (2nd Generation or Later)
- iPhone SE (2nd generation)
- iPhone SE (3rd generation)
Both the 2nd and 3rd generation iPhone SE models will support iOS 18. They are great choices for an affordable entry into the Apple ecosystem without sacrificing software support.
iPhone Models That Won’t Get iOS 18
As usual, some older iPhones won’t be compatible with the latest iOS update. Here are the models that won’t support iOS 18:
iPhone X
The iPhone X was groundbreaking in its time. However, it won’t receive the iOS 18 update. This marks the end of its software support, though it will still function on older iOS versions.
iPhone 8 and 8 Plus
The iPhone 8 and iPhone 8 Plus have also been dropped from the supported list. While they've served users well for years, it may be time to consider an upgrade if you still use one of these models.
iPhone 7 and Earlier
Models like the iPhone 7, iPhone 6S, and older are no longer supported for the iOS 18 update. These phones had long software lifespans but are now outdated.
Why Does Apple Drop Support for Older iPhones?
Every new iOS release introduces features that need more processing power and RAM. iOS 18, for instance, has new AI features like Apple Intelligence that require at least an A12 Bionic chip. Older iPhone models simply lack the hardware for these updates.
For instance, Apple Intelligence in iOS 18, which provides personalized AI assistance across various apps, requires powerful processing capabilities that older models like the iPhone X and iPhone 8 lack. This is why Apple eventually ends support for certain devices as new features exceed older hardware capabilities.
What to Do if Your iPhone Isn’t Getting iOS 18
If your iPhone can't support iOS 18, don’t worry! You have several options to stay updated without spending too much.
Sell Your Old iPhone
Even if your iPhone can’t run iOS 18, it still has resale value. Many buyers are eager to purchase older iPhones at budget-friendly prices. You can use the money from your sale to buy a newer, second-hand iPhone that supports iOS 18.
Trade In for a Newer Model
Another option is to trade in your old iPhone for a newer second-hand model. Some retailers offer competitive trade-in values. This makes it easy to upgrade without spending too much. Whether you're eyeing an iPhone 13 or iPhone 14, a trade-in can help reduce the cost of your new device.
Upgrade to a Newer Second-Hand iPhone
When you buy second-hand iPhones from CompAsia, you can get the latest models at significant savings. All our devices undergo rigorous testing to ensure they’re in excellent condition. If your current iPhone won't get iOS 18, consider upgrading to a second-hand iPhone 12, iPhone 13, or even iPhone 14. You can enjoy all the benefits of iOS 18 at a fraction of the cost of a new device.
Find the Right iPhone for iOS 18 at CompAsia
Even with the latest iPhones available, older second-hand models can still perform well, especially with the iOS 18 update.
If your current iPhone isn’t eligible for the update, don’t worry! You can still enjoy the benefits of a more advanced device by considering a second-hand model. A little research can help you find a reliable iPhone that fits your needs and budget.
At CompAsia, we make buying easy. Each second-hand iPhone goes through a thorough quality check to meet our high standards. Plus, we offer a free 1-month warranty for your peace of mind.
Check out our collection of quality second-hand iPhones that support the iOS 18 update and upgrade today!
