The technological evolution of Apple in 2025 will bring significant changes for iPhone users, especially with the arrival of iOS 19, the next operating system from the brand. Scheduled to be unveiled in June during the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC), the new software promises advanced features like improvements in artificial intelligence and security, but not all devices will keep up with this update. Models launched between 2018 and 2020, such as the iPhone XR, iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, and the 2nd-generation iPhone SE, are expected to be excluded from the compatibility list, marking the end of a support cycle that typically spans five to seven years. This decision will affect millions of users in Brazil and worldwide who still rely on these devices, popularized for their cost-effectiveness and solid performance at launch. With around 83 million active iPhones globally impacted by support cuts in previous years, Apple’s move reflects its strategy to prioritize newer hardware, like those equipped with the A18 Pro chip, to meet the system’s demands.
The discontinuation of updates is not new in Apple’s policy, which traditionally phases out older models to maintain efficiency and innovation. Users of these devices will face challenges such as security vulnerabilities and incompatibility with new apps, forcing a choice between sticking with their current phone or upgrading to a newer model.
For compatible devices, ranging from the iPhone 11 to the upcoming iPhone 17, the update will bring benefits, though with limitations: not all features will be available on older hardware due to processing requirements.
End of support marks era of popular iPhones
The iPhone XR, launched in 2018, was a sales hit for offering a Liquid Retina display and Face ID at an affordable price, while the iPhone XS and XS Max introduced the groundbreaking A12 Bionic chip at the time. The 2nd-generation iPhone SE, from 2020, won fans with its compact design and robust performance. However, these models are set to miss out on iOS 19, closing a chapter for devices still widely used today.
This exclusion stems from the inability of older processors, like the A12 and A13 Bionic, to handle the planned new features, such as advances in artificial intelligence and enhanced graphics. As a result, users will lose access to the improvements Apple aims to roll out.
Direct impacts on users
Ceasing to receive operating system updates brings practical consequences. Without iOS 19, these iPhones will become more vulnerable to cyberattacks, as they will no longer get security patches. Additionally, performance may degrade over time, with increased battery drain and struggles to run updated apps.
Millions of Brazilians still using these models, particularly the iPhone XR, may need to consider switching to newer devices to maintain security and everyday functionality.
List of affected and compatible models
The iPhones expected to lose iOS 19 support include:
- iPhone XR
- iPhone XS
- iPhone XS Max
- iPhone SE (2nd generation)
Conversely, iOS 19 compatibility is projected to cover a broad range of devices, from the iPhone 11, released in 2019, to the future iPhone 17, expected in 2025. The list includes:
- iPhone 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max
- iPhone 12, 12 Mini, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max
- iPhone 13, 13 Mini, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max
- iPhone 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max
- iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max
- iPhone 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, 16 Pro Max
- iPhone SE (3rd generation)
- iPhone SE (4th generation, anticipated)
- iPhone 17 (future release)
This extensive coverage highlights Apple’s commitment to long-term support, though advanced features may be restricted to more powerful chips.
Official iOS 19 timeline
The rollout of iOS 19 will follow Apple’s usual schedule:
- June 2025: Unveiling at WWDC, with beta testing starting for developers.
- July 2025: Public beta available for enrolled users.
- September 2025: Official release, alongside the iPhone 17 lineup.
Official confirmation of the excluded models will come during the June event, though rumors already point to the 2018 and 2020 devices being cut.
Hardware limitations in spotlight
Ending support is tied to the constraints of older processors. The A12 Bionic, featured in the iPhone XR and XS, was a milestone in 2018 but falls short of meeting the demands of technologies like advanced AI, which rely on chips like the A18 Pro in newer models. This drives Apple to prioritize performance and security, phasing out older devices.
For users, this means that features like new camera enhancements or AI-driven services may not work fully, even on compatible older models like the iPhone 11.
Options for those left without updates
Users of iPhones excluded from iOS 19 have a few paths forward:
- Stick with iOS 18, though with growing security risks over time.
- Upgrade to used compatible models, such as the iPhone 12 or 13, available in the second-hand market.
- Invest in a recent release, like the iPhone 16 or the upcoming iPhone 17, to ensure support for years ahead.
The decision hinges on how the device is used and the need to keep apps and security up to date.
Future of Apple’s updates
Apple’s policy of providing five to seven years of support gives it an edge over competitors, but technological progress inevitably leaves older models behind. With iOS 19, the company is expected to focus on innovation, introducing enhancements that demand cutting-edge hardware, such as augmented reality and real-time data processing.
Users of older iPhones will need to weigh upgrading their devices to keep pace with these advancements, particularly in an era where digital security is increasingly critical.