Apple iOS 19 and iPadOS 19 leaks reveal compatibility with older devices and launch timeline

Apple is gearing up for the launch of iOS 19 and iPadOS 19, the next major updates for iPhones and iPads. A recent report from the French website iPhonesoft has revealed a leaked list of devices likely to support the new updates. If correct, this would fit perfectly with Apple’s long-standing tradition-or rather earlier policies-of putting all their energy behind giving support to older devices while building features for the latest hardware.

So, let’s dive deep to explore what users can expect from upcoming iOS 19 and iPadOS 19 and check their compatibility details.

iOS 19 compatibility: Supported iPhone models

According to the report, iOS 19 will support numerous iPhones both from the flagship generation to the older generation. The rumored list includes the following:

Latest models

• iPhone 16 Series: iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, and iPhone 16 Pro Max.
• iPhone 15 Series: iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro, and iPhone 15 Pro Max.
• iPhone 14 Series: iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, iPhone 14 Pro, and iPhone 14 Pro Max.

Older generations

• iPhone 13 Series: iPhone 13, iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 13 Pro, and iPhone 13 Pro Max.
• iPhone 12 Series: iPhone 12, iPhone 12 mini, iPhone 12 Pro, and iPhone 12 Pro Max.
• iPhone 11 Series: iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro, and iPhone 11 Pro Max.
• Other Models: iPhone Xs, iPhone Xs Max, iPhone XR, and iPhone SE (2nd generation or later).

This is an extraordinary compatibility demonstration that captures the mind of Apple to keep older devices, allowing users to access modern features and all other security improvements.

iPadOS 19 compatibility: Supported iPad models

For the iPads, the Apple is speculated to shorten down the list of compatible devices by making the minimum hardware required for an update the A12 Bionic chip. This means that some older models may be left out anymore.

Compatible iPads

• iPad Pro: iPad Pro (M4), iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd generation and later), iPad Pro 11-inch (1st generation and later).
• iPad Air: iPad Air (M2), iPad Air (3rd generation and later).
• Standard iPads: iPad (8th generation and later).
• iPad Mini: iPad mini (5th generation and later).

However, the iPad (7th generation) may have been excluded from this change, bringing down the curtains on the end of updates for it.

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Expected features and launch timeline

Although specific new features to be included within iOS 19 and iPadOS 19 are undisclosed for now, there are signs, hints, and clues coming, courtesy of Apple, which suggest performance, privacy, and experience improvements. Other potential updates can include personalization options, new and smarter widgets, as well as more system integrations in response to Apple’s ecosystem.

In June 2025, Apple will likely unveil iOS 19 and iPadOS 19 at the annual Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC). Subsequently, a public beta should soon follow, with the official release probably in September 2025-alongside the iPhone 16 lineup.

Keep an eye out, as we will be bringing you updates closely as WWDC 2025 draws near. From the current models of the iPhone to the older ones, Apple’s next cycle of software updates is purported to aim at something for everybody.