New iPadOS 18 Rumor Suggests Apple Will Drop Support For Old-Gen Models

Joseph Henry, Tech Times 01 April 2024, 01:04 pm

Fresh rumors are circulating about the upcoming iOS 18 which tells us about the devices expected to support the latest operating system from Apple.

While the iOS 18 is rumored to maintain compatibility with an extensive range of devices, iPadOS 18 might not be as forgiving, as it could drop support for certain older models.

The source gives the list of the affected devices that unfortunately might not receive iPadOS 18 support.

Devices Compatible With Forthcoming iOS 18

Previous speculation hinted at the device compatibility for iOS 18, but doubts arose due to the uncertain nature of the source. However, a recent rumor shared on social media by a reliable source with a proven track record provides a clearer picture of the potential device compatibility for iOS 18.

According to the 9to5Mac, the rumor says that these are expected devices to be compatible with iOS 18:

iPhone 15 series
iPhone 14 series
iPhone 13 series
iPhone 12 series
iPhone 11 series
iPhone XS series
iPhone XR
iPhone SE (2nd and 3rd generation)

These revelations suggest that iOS 18 will extend compatibility to the same devices currently supported by iOS 17.

It is expected that the Cupertino giant might release the rumored software update for the WWDC 2024 event which will be held between June 10 and 14, according to Laptop Mag.

At the same time, the public launch might coincide with the release of the iPhone 16 in September.

What About iPadOS 18 Compatibility

In contrast to iOS 18, the iPadOS 18 is rumored to discontinue support for select older devices. According to the same source, the following devices are likely to lose compatibility with iPadOS 18:

iPad (6th generation)
iPad Pro (12.9-inch) (2nd generation)
iPad Pro (10.5-inch)

However, the majority of iPad models will maintain compatibility with iPadOS 18, including:

iPad (7th generation) and later
iPad mini (5th generation) and later
iPad Air (3rd generation) and later
iPad Pro (2018) and later

Unraveling the iPadOS 18 Compatibility Puzzle

The decision to drop support for specific iPad models in iPadOS 18 raises eyebrows, particularly concerning the iPad Pro (10.5-inch) and iPad Pro (12.9-inch) (2nd generation).

Both powered by the A10X Fusion chip, these models face obsolescence with the impending update. Conversely, the iPad (7th generation), featuring the A10 Fusion chip, is expected to remain compatible with iPadOS 18.

What Lies Ahead for iOS and iPadOS Users

As anticipation mounts for the release of iOS 18 and iPadOS 18, users await official confirmation from Apple regarding device compatibility.

While the iOS 18 promises to maintain support for a wide array of devices, iPadOS 18 may bid farewell to certain older models, signaling a shift in Apple's approach to operating system updates. More updates and announcements from Apple will come as we inch closer to the anticipated launch of iOS 18 and iPadOS 18.

With Apple going big on AI, iOS 18 is foreseen to be focused on introducing new AI-related features that would attract a lot of buyers.