Apple is preparing to introduce iOS 27 at its Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) 2026 keynote on June 8, and new reports indicate that several older iPhone models could lose support with the upcoming software update.
According to a leak shared by Weibo tipster Instant Digital, Apple may restrict iOS 27 compatibility to the iPhone 12 lineup and newer devices. If accurate, this would mean the end of major iOS updates for the iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro, iPhone 11 Pro Max, and the second-generation iPhone SE.
These devices, launched between 2019 and 2020, have already received multiple generations of iOS upgrades. While users of these phones are expected to continue receiving security patches through iOS 26 for some time, they may no longer gain access to the newest features and enhancements arriving with iOS 27.
The report suggests that supported devices will include the iPhone 12, iPhone 13, iPhone 14, iPhone 15, and iPhone 16 series, along with the newly introduced iPhone 17 lineup and the third-generation iPhone SE.
Apple has not officially confirmed the compatibility list yet. However, the move would align with the company's long-standing strategy of phasing out older hardware as software requirements become increasingly demanding.
The expected software changes are not limited to iPhones. Reports indicate that some older iPads may also lose support with iPadOS 27. Meanwhile, Apple has already confirmed that macOS 27 will officially end support for Intel-powered Mac computers, marking another major transition in the company's ecosystem.
Beyond device compatibility, iOS 27 is expected to place a strong emphasis on artificial intelligence. Apple is reportedly working on a redesigned Siri experience capable of handling more natural conversations and advanced voice-based tasks, similar to AI chatbots such as ChatGPT.
Several built-in apps are also expected to receive deeper AI integration. Reports suggest Apple is testing intelligent editing tools for the Photos app, including features that can extend image backgrounds, reframe pictures, and edit photos using simple text commands. The Camera app may receive a significant overhaul as well, with rumours pointing to a Siri-powered shooting mode and more advanced controls for professional users.
Other expected additions include natural-language shortcut creation, smarter writing assistance, and AI-powered bill-splitting and pass-management tools inside the Wallet app.
Despite the growing focus on AI, Apple may avoid making dramatic design changes this year. Bloomberg's Mark Gurman has reportedly compared iOS 27 to Mac OS X Snow Leopard, suggesting the company is prioritising system stability, performance improvements, and reliability over a complete visual redesign.
Apple is expected to release the first developer beta of iOS 27 shortly after the WWDC keynote. A public beta will likely follow in July, while the final stable version is expected to launch globally in September alongside the next generation of iPhones.