Apple is getting ready to unveil iOS 27 at WWDC 2026 on June 8. But ahead of the announcement, a new leak suggests some popular iPhone models could be left behind this year.
If the rumor holds, this could be one of those updates where compatibility matters more than features.
These iPhones may lose support with iOS 27
According to a leak from Instant Digital, iOS 27 may require an iPhone 12 or newer.
That means Apple could drop support for:
- iPhone 11
- iPhone 11 Pro
- iPhone 11 Pro Max
- iPhone SE (2nd generation)
These devices currently run iOS 26, so this would mark a clear cutoff.
What devices are expected to support iOS 27
If the leak is accurate, the update will be available on:
- iPhone 12 and newer
- iPhone SE (3rd generation) and newer
That includes everything from the iPhone 12 series up to the latest models expected this year.
Even supported iPhones may not get everything
Here’s where things get more interesting.
Many of the headline features expected in iOS 27 are tied to Apple Intelligence, and those features will reportedly require an iPhone 15 Pro or newer.
That said, Apple Intelligence so far hasn’t been a huge differentiator. Early features have felt limited, and in many cases, underwhelming compared to expectations.
But that could change with iOS 27. Apple is widely expected to deliver a more meaningful upgrade to its AI features this year, which could finally make hardware requirements like the iPhone 15 Pro feel justified.
RELATED: iOS 27 Siri App Rumor: Apple Testing Standalone Siri with AI Features
So even if your iPhone supports iOS 27, the real question is whether it supports what actually matters.
Should you upgrade if you have an iPhone 11?
If you’re using an iPhone 11 or older, this might be the year you start thinking about an upgrade.
Here’s the reality:
- You likely won’t get iOS 27
- You’ll miss out on future Apple Intelligence features
- Your phone will still get security updates, but no major upgrades
Bottom line:
If your iPhone still runs fine, you’re not forced to upgrade yet. But if you care about new features or long-term support, the writing is on the wall.
Best iPhone upgrades if iOS 27 drops your device
If you do decide to upgrade, here are the smartest options depending on your budget and needs:
Best value upgrade
- iPhone 13
- Still fast for everyday use
- Likely to support iOS updates for a few more years
Best long-term option
- iPhone 15 Pro
- Supports Apple Intelligence features
- More future-proof than older models
Wait if you can
- Upcoming iPhone 18 or iPhone 18 Pro
- Expected to launch alongside iOS 27
A quiet shift in Apple’s strategy
Apple dropping older iPhones from updates isn’t new, but the pattern is evolving. Last year, the iPhone XS lineup lost support. Now the iPhone 11 family could be next.
At the same time, Apple is tying its most important features to newer hardware.
That creates a clear divide:
- Some iPhones won’t get the update
- Others will get it, but not the best features
What happens if your iPhone is dropped?
If your device doesn’t support iOS 27, it doesn’t suddenly stop working. Apple typically continues rolling out security updates for older versions for several years.
That means your phone stays secure, just without new features.
The 404 take
On paper, this is just another compatibility change. In reality, it highlights a bigger shift. Apple isn’t just deciding which iPhones get iOS anymore, it’s deciding which ones get the future of iOS.
And if current rumors are accurate, that future may truly start with the iPhone 15 Pro and newer.
