Apple’s next major software update is already drawing a sharper line between older iPhones and newer models. According to the latest leak, iOS 27 may skip the iPhone 11 lineup and the second-generation iPhone SE, narrowing the range of devices eligible for the new release.
The report points to a shift that goes beyond simple compatibility. Apple is said to be putting more weight on system stability and bug fixes, while newer iPhones continue to receive the most advanced AI-related features.
Older models may stop at iOS 26
MacRumors, citing Apple product leaker Instant Digital on Weibo, says iOS 27 will be available only for iPhone 12 and later models. If that holds, the iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro, iPhone 11 Pro Max, and iPhone SE 2 from 2020 would not make the compatibility list.
Those devices are expected to remain on iOS 26 instead. They may still receive security updates for several years, but they would no longer get the new features introduced with iOS 27.
Which devices are still expected to qualify
The same leak suggests that Apple will continue supporting every model from the iPhone 12 range onward. That list includes iPhone 13, iPhone 14, iPhone 15, iPhone 16, iPhone 17, and the third-generation iPhone SE.
Even so, compatibility with the operating system does not mean feature parity across all devices. Apple is reportedly keeping some functions limited to higher-end models.
Apple Intelligence remains the dividing line
The report also highlights Apple Intelligence as the clearest point of separation. A more personal version of Siri is likely to be available only on the iPhone 15 Pro and newer models.
That would leave iPhone 15 Pro owners and users of later generations with the full set of Apple Intelligence capabilities tied to iOS 27. By contrast, iPhone 12 through non-Pro iPhone 15 models may get the operating system update without access to all of the AI features.
A release still waiting for official confirmation
The timing of the leak comes just ahead of Worldwide Developers Conference, or WWDC 2026, which is scheduled for June 8. Apple is expected to announce iOS 27 and confirm its official device list at the annual event.
Until that announcement arrives, the status of the iPhone 11 series and iPhone SE 2020 remains unconfirmed. For now, the information should still be treated as a leak rather than a final compatibility decision.
No major visual overhaul is expected
Beyond Siri and Apple Intelligence, iOS 27 is not expected to bring a dramatic redesign. The update is instead said to focus on stronger stability and bug fixes.
That approach would keep newer iPhones attractive through AI features, while older devices continue with security support and a more stable operating system. For users of the iPhone 11 series and iPhone SE 2020, the key question now is whether Apple will make the rumored cutoff official at WWDC 2026.