iOS 26 Exclusive Features: Which Models Will Get Them?

With the introduction of iOS 26, Apple has rolled out several design updates while ensuring compatibility with iPhone 11 models (excluding the older XS and XR models). However, some features will only be available on the more recent versions. Let’s explore the features that won’t be available on all iPhone models.

Visual Intelligence in Screenshots: iPhone 15 Pro or Newer

Visual Intelligence, initially exclusive to iPhone 16 and later with iOS 18.4 expanded to include iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max, will not see its compatibility extended in iOS 26. Both direct photography and screenshot capture with Visual Intelligence will require at least an iPhone 15 Pro.

iPad: iPad mini (A17 Pro), iPad M1 or later

Real-Time Translation in Messages, FaceTime, and Calls: iPhone 15 Pro or Newer

Closely linked to Apple Intelligence, real-time translation demands significant processing power and will remain restricted to at least the iPhone 15 Pro. The supported languages for text messages include English, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese, Spanish, and Simplified Chinese. Voice conversations will be limited to English, French, German, Portuguese, and Spanish.

iPad: iPad mini (A17 Pro), iPad M1 or later

Enhanced Shortcuts by Apple Intelligence: iPhone 15 Pro or Newer

Given that Apple Intelligence is only available on iPhone 15 Pro and newer models, the creation of AI-powered shortcuts will also be restricted to these devices.

iPad: iPad mini (A17 Pro), iPad M1 or later

Reminder Suggestions: iPhone 15 Pro or Newer, English Only

Currently available solely for English speakers on an iPhone 15 Pro or better, reminder suggestions powered by Apple Intelligence are expected to support additional languages in the future. However, the minimum device requirement is likely to remain unchanged. The automatic organization of reminders will also be limited to iPhone 15 Pro and newer models.

iPad: iPad mini (A17 Pro), iPad M1 or later

Order Tracking on Maps: iPhone 15 Pro or Newer

With the support of Apple Intelligence, the feature that automatically adds order tracking to the Maps app from online shopping emails is available only on devices that support Apple Intelligence, hence iPhone 15 Pro or newer.

iPad: iPad mini (A17 Pro), iPad M1 or later

New Genmojis and Enhanced Image Playground: iPhone 15 Pro or Newer

iPad: iPad mini (A17 Pro), iPad M1 or later

AI Customized Backgrounds in Messages and Poll Suggestions: iPhone 15 Pro or Newer

iPad: iPad mini (A17 Pro), iPad M1 or later

3D Effect on Lock Screen: iPhone 12 or Newer

The 3D effect on the lock screen, which adjusts the clock size based on the background image, will require at least an iPhone 12, thereby excluding iPhone 11 models.