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Every iPhone that won't be able to run the new iOS update as Apple shares list of phones now 'obsolete'

Every iPhone that won't be able to run the new iOS update as Apple shares list of phones now 'obsolete'

A lot of older iPhones won't be able to download iOS 18

If you're getting excited about the new AI-assisted iOS 18 then I've got some bad news for you - your phone may not be able to instal it.

With Apple having just announced their most recent update, iOS 18, users are wondering which models of iPhone will be able to install the new features.

And if you've been holding onto your iPhone for a good few years, you might not be in luck.

"Apple discontinues all hardware service for obsolete products." (Filip Radwanski/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images)
"Apple discontinues all hardware service for obsolete products." (Filip Radwanski/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images)

What's new in iOS 18?

iOS 18 has been branded one of their ‘biggest ever’ updates, with the introduction of new AI technology called Apple Intelligence.

Apple has inked a deal with OpenAI to integrate ChatGPT into Siri, and in future you'll be able to type in queries rather than just talking out loud to Siri.

Siri is reportedly getting a big upgrade in its language skills and the kind of prompts it can respond to.

In a more controversial update, the new iOS includes the ability to lock certain apps and hide them in a hidden apps folder - which some say makes your phone a 'cheaters' paradise'.

And in a more lowkey upgrade, you'll soon have the ability to move your apps freely around the home screen for a more personalised look, rather than having them locked in rows and columns.

The iPhones Apple has labelled 'obsolete'

The new update comes after Apple announced many of its more vintage models were now 'obsolete'.

When an iPhone reaches its tenth birthday, you can no longer order repair parts for it, which can put you in a bit of a pickle if you own one.

(Getty stock)
(Getty stock)

The list of obsolete iPhones is as follows:

  • iPhone
  • iPhone 3G (China mainland) 8GB
  • iPhone 3G 8GB, 16GB
  • iPhone 3GS (China mainland) 16GB, 32GB
  • iPhone 3GS (8GB)
  • iPhone 3GS 16GB, 32G
  • iPhone 4 CDMA
  • iPhone 4 CDMA (8GB)
  • iPhone 4 16GB, 32GB
  • iPhone 4 GSM (8GB), Black
  • iPhone 4S
  • iPhone 4S (8GB)
  • iPhone 5C
  • iPhone 5S
  • iPhone 6 Plus

The iPhones that won't be compatible with iOS 18

If you've got an iPhone model more recent than an iPhone 6 Plus you might think you'll be able to enjoy iOS 18. Wrong.

Is your iPhone compatible? (Getty Stock Image/Westend61)
Is your iPhone compatible? (Getty Stock Image/Westend61)

The new iOS update will only be available for models released after 2018.

So, as well as the above list of obsolete iPhones, if you have any of the models below you won't be able to download iOS 18:

  • iPhone SE (first generation)
  • iPhone 7
  • iPhone 7 Plus
  • iPhone 8
  • iPhone 8 Plus
  • iPhone X

If you're looking to take advantage of Apple Intelligence, Apple's fancy new AI upgrade, then only a very select number of iPhone users will be able to use it.

Apple Intelligence is only compatible with the following iPhone models:

  • iPhone 15 Pro Max
  • iPhone 15 Pro

So there you have it, don't have your heart set on the fancy new iOS 18 features if you're still rocking an iPhone that's a fair few years old.

Featured Image Credit: Filip Radwanski/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images / Getty stock

Topics: iPhone, Apple, Technology, AI