Are you caught up in the hysteria around the latest iOS 17? That’s a party that not everyone is invited to. Some iPhones say goodbye to the chance to run the most recent iOS version every year; this year is no exception. iOS 17 brings some fantastic improvements, and we’re sure you’re excited to see if you’ll be able to get them on your iPhone 11.
Will your iPhone 11 get iOS 17, or will it be left behind? Continue reading to find out which iPhones did not make the cut, why, and what their future holds.
Can my iPhone 11 get iOS 17?
Absolutely! Apple confirmed that the iPhone 11 is one of the devices eligible for the iOS 17 update. This means you can enjoy all the new features and improvements that iOS 17 offers, such as a new lock screen, standby, interactive widgets, and better multitasking.
Some people might be worried about their iPhone 11 being too old to run iOS 17, but that’s not something you need to worry about. Apple has been known for supporting its devices for many years, and the iPhone 11 is no exception. It still has a powerful A13 Bionic chip that can easily handle the demands of iOS 17.
So, if you have an iPhone 11, you can rest assured that you can update to iOS 17.
Which iPhone Models Aren’t Compatible With iOS 17?
The rumour mill strikes again, with claims that some iPhones have been excluded from the iOS 17 update has come true. The notable models that will not be included are the iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus, and iPhone X. All three were introduced in 2017. Needless to say, no older iPhones will receive the iOS 17 update.
IPhone XS, XS Max, and XR users can breathe a sigh of relief (for the time being), as these models were released a year later and will receive the iOS 17 update. The iPhone SE (2020 and 2022 models) and the iPhone 11, 12, 13, and 14 series are also on the list.
Why Did Apple Discontinue Support for These iPhone Models?
Every year, Apple has a well-known tradition of removing a handful of older models from its new software update. Apple has been supporting devices with new software for the past five years.
Given that the iPhone X and iPhone 8 were released in 2017, it’s not surprising that they aren’t receiving the iOS 17 update. iPhones older than the iPhone 8 were not eligible for iOS 16, whereas the iPhone 7 was the cut-off point for iOS 15. The current trend is both obvious and predictable.
Apple does this to ensure peak performance. While these iPhones were once the best, they no longer have the processing power to support iOS 17’s exciting features. The advanced features of iOS 17 necessitate more hardware prowess than these older models can muster, and this time, the A11 Bionic chip is the deciding factor.
Although the iPhone X includes the Neural Engine, it does not appear to be sufficient. Using iOS 17 features on an older iPhone would cause it to lag, slow down, and exhibit performance and battery issues.
Apple’s decision to discontinue iOS 17 support allows it to focus on priming the features to work seamlessly on all compatible devices and provide maximum output. Most importantly, it’s a clever way to encourage users to upgrade from older iPhones to newer models and buy the most recent models to avoid the cut-off.
What Does Apple’s Removal of iOS 17 Support Mean for Older iPhones?
It’s not the end of the world; iPhone 8/8 Plus and iPhone X users can still do a lot with their devices. These models will receive all security updates and bug fixes and will be able to continue to enjoy the fantastic features that iOS 16 has to offer. It’s a bummer that iOS 17 isn’t available, but it will definitely ensure that your device doesn’t develop unexpected battery issues or slowdowns and continues to work smoothly.
Unfortunately, you will be unable to use iOS 17 features, and some apps may become incompatible with older software. There are numerous other reasons to update iOS, beginning with improved performance. However, your device’s security may not be an immediate concern because Apple continues to provide security updates to nearly ten years old devices.
Is Your iPhone Ready for iOS 17?
New software requires more power, and older devices can’t always keep up without sacrificing performance. This is one of the primary reasons Apple excludes models from its annual software update each year, and iOS 17 was no exception.
The iPhone X, 8, and 8 Plus will not receive iOS 17 because they use the old A11 Bionic chip. Yes, you’ll miss out on the iOS 17 exclusives, but keep in mind that they’ll come at the expense of your device’s longevity and performance in the future.
In true Apple fashion, iOS 17 is now available for download on various iPhone models. You must have one of the following iPhone models to download iOS 17:
- 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)
This means the iOS 16-compatible iPhone 8 and iPhone X are no longer included in the update cycle.
It may appear surprising at first, but upon closer inspection, both devices are powered by the same A11 Bionic chipset, and Apple has discontinued support for that processor. The iPhone Xs, iPhone SE 2020, iPhone 11, iPhone 12, iPhone 13, and iPhone 14 series, on the other hand, can run the iOS 17 update.
The iOS 17 update comes preinstalled on the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro series, so if you buy either, you’ll have the most up-to-date software right away.
If you have an older iPhone that needs to be updated, downloading iOS 17 is a breeze.
What is new in iOS 17?
With iOS 17, Apple provides updated experiences across various apps, including Phone, FaceTime, and Messages, while integrating your iPhone into the smart home experience with StandBy and adding new apps, such as the currently delayed Journal.
Contact Posters are now available in the Phone app, allowing you to customise incoming call screens with different typography and font colours. Then there’s Live Voicemail, which displays real-time transcription as a voicemail is left.
The Messages app now includes Live Stickers, which can be made by removing subjects from photos and applying their effects. Check-in is one of the most important new features, as it can notify a family member or friend if and when you arrive safely at your destination. If you do not make any progress, the device’s location, battery level, and cell service status will be temporarily shared with the selected contact.
NameDrop
You can leave audio and video messages when you can’t reach someone on FaceTime. You can add reactions to your FaceTime calls, such as hearts, balloons, fireworks, laser beams, rain, and more.
Also, you can share your contact number with iOS 17 without having to type in the other person’s contact information. Apple’s NameDrop feature allows you to easily share contact information by bringing your iPhone or Apple Watch close to someone else’s.
Finally, Apple will release Journal for iPhones later this year. Through journaling, the app allows you to reflect and practise gratitude. The app generates journal entry suggestions based on your recent activity.
How to Determine the Model of Your iPhone
If you’re unsure which iPad model you have, go to Settings -> General -> About and look for the Model Name.
You can also determine the iOS version on your device by going to Settings -> Software Update. If an update for your iPhone is available, you will be notified here.
- iOS 17 Features: 23+ Top New Enhanced Capabilities
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- How Long Does iOS 17 Take To Download (+ Free Tips)
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