Apple has issued an urgent warning to iPhone users to upgrade to iOS 26 or risk running into tech issues. The company has released a full list of 29 compatible iPhone models that can access the latest features and security enhancements
Sophie Buchan Money and Lifestyle Writer and Rory Gannon Showbiz Journalist
09:29, 04 Jan 2026Updated 09:31, 04 Jan 2026
Apple users are being told to upgrade their iOS in order to avoid technical glitches on their phone (stock)(Image: Tim Robberts via Getty Images)
iPhone users have been issued a warning by tech giant Apple. The company recently posted an alert on its official website, advising device owners that certain changes may be required to prevent technical issues.
For those experiencing problems, an upgrade to their existing iOS software may be necessary to resolve any bugs. Specifically, Apple recommends installing iOS 26.
The firm is urging users to take prompt action, highlighting that this update will provide access to the “latest features and security enhancements”. On its support page, Apple advises: “Before downloading new software, back up your device to make sure that you have a copy of your important information.”
Apple have urged people to upgrade their iOS (stock)(Image: neirfy via Getty Images)
However, not all iPhone users will be able to access this update. Apple explains: “You will only see updates that are compatible with your current software version.
“If you have not downloaded the most current release, you will not see the option to install the latest release.”, according to the Mirror. A total of 29 iPhone models are compatible with iOS 26.
These phones that are affected are:
- iPhone 17
- iPhone 17 Pro
- iPhone 17 Pro Max
- iPhone Air
- iPhone 16e
- iPhone 16
- iPhone 16 Plus
- iPhone 16 Pro
- iPhone 16 Pro Max
- iPhone 15
- iPhone 15 Plus
- iPhone 15 Pro
- iPhone 15 Pro Max
- 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 SE (2nd generation and later)
The iPhone 17 Pro is one of the 29 different models that are affected (Image: Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)
To get the latest version, users can opt for automatic updates, eliminating the need for manual intervention. Alternatively, they can check for updates in the Software Update settings.
To enable automatic updates, follow these steps:.
- Open Settings.
- Tap General.
- Tap Software Update.
- Tap Automatic Updates.
- Choose from the available options.
Apple have shared the simple 4 step method – and it’s easy to follow(Image: Apple)
To manually install software updates:.
- Open Settings.
- Click on General.
- Next, click on Software Update. The screen will display the current version of iOS and whether there’s an update ready for you.
- If an update is available, click on Download and Install, then follow the instructions that appear on your screen.
One of the most anticipated features of the latest iOS is Liquid Glass. Touted as its “broadest design update ever”, this “new design across Apple platforms elevates the content people care about most and it creates a unified design language between platforms – all while maintaining the distinct qualities that make each unique.”
Additional features include Live Translation, enhanced gaming experience, privacy updates and more.
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