iOS 18: These iPhones are compatible - and these are no longer

Apple has launched an exciting update with iOS 18 that offers many new features and makes the iPhone experience even better. But not all iPhones can install the new operating system. Have you ever wondered whether your iPhone 11 is still included? Or which model you need to be able to use the latest features? We'll explain which models are compatible, which ones are unfortunately out and what you absolutely need to know.

What's new in iOS 18?

iOS 18 brings numerous new features that make your iPhone even more versatile and personal. Here is an overview of the most important features:

• personalization of the home screen: You can freely place app icons and customize their size and colors.

• Revised Control Center: Multi-page controls and customizable button sizes provide more clarity.

• New features in the Photos app: Automatic collections and better HDR support take your images to the next level.

• Improved messaging and mail apps: Scheduled messages, animated effects and automatic email categorization.

• password management: A new app stores and manages passwords securely.

• Lock and hide apps: Increase your security with locked and hidden apps.

When is Apple Intelligence coming to Germany?

Apple has announced that the feature Apple Intelligence away April 2025 will also be available in Germany and other EU countries. Currently, these advanced AI functions are not activated in the EU due to regulatory requirements. Some of these features, such as generative models or personalized recommendations, will be introduced gradually.

Which iPhones support iOS 18?

Here is the list of devices that will receive the new update:

• iPhone SE (2nd and 3rd generation)

• iPhone XR

• iPhone XS and XS Max

• iPhone 11, 11 Pro and 11 Pro Max

• iPhone 12 mini, 12, 12 Pro and 12 Pro Max

• iPhone 13 mini, 13, 13 Pro and 13 Pro Max

• iPhone 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro and 14 Pro Max

• iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro and 15 Pro Max

• iPhone 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro and 16 Pro Max

Which iPhones support Apple Intelligence?

The new Apple Intelligence features are not available for all iPhones. Here are the models that support Apple Intelligence:

• iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max: These models feature the powerful A17 Pro chip, which is specifically optimized for these functions.

• iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max: These devices are also fully compatible with the latest A18 and A18 Pro chips.

Older models like the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus Unfortunately, they do not support Apple Intelligence because they lack the necessary hardware.

Note: Although these models technically support Apple Intelligence, the features are not currently available in the EU. However, Apple plans to make them available from April 2025 in Germany and other EU countries.

Which models no longer support iOS 18?

Unfortunately, the following iPhones are no longer among the lucky ones:

• iPhone 8 and 8 Plus

• iPhone X

If you use one of these models, iOS 17 will be your last update.

Do you still want to enjoy iOS 18 and especially Apple Intelligence upgrading to a newer iPhone is your best option. But don't worry: iOS 17 still offers plenty of features, and these devices will likely receive security updates for years to come.

A good example is the iPhone 6s and 6s Plus. Although these models, now ten years old, no longer received new iOS versions, they continued to receive security updates. For example, iOS 15.8.2 was released in July 2024, which closed security holes and protected the devices from potential threats.

Is it worth upgrading to a new iPhone?

That depends entirely on what you expect from your iPhone. But no matter which scenario suits you, it's worth considering a refurbished iPhone. You'll save money and still get a device that suits your needs. Here are three scenarios to help you make your decision (click on the individual iPhone models to get to the buying guide):

1. You want to save money and only use your iPhone for basics:

• If you use your iPhone primarily for making calls, messaging, or apps like WhatsApp and Instagram, an older model is perfectly sufficient.

• With iOS 17 you are still in good hands. The system offers many modern features and remains secure thanks to important security updates.

• Recommended models: iPhone X, iPhone 8 and iPhone 8 Plus. These devices are affordable and, despite their age, offer solid performance for basics.

2. You want to use the latest iOS features:

• If you don't want to miss out on the new features of iOS 18, you should look for a model that is compatible with iOS 18.

• Models like the iPhone SE (3rd generation) or the iPhone 14 series are a good choice because they support the update and are affordable.

• Recommended models: iPhone XS, iPhone XR, iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro, iPhone 12, iPhone 12 Pro, iPhone 13, iPhone 13 Pro, iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Pro, iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 PlusThese devices support iOS 18 and cover different price ranges.

3. You want Apple Intelligence and a premium experience:

• If you want to use Apple Intelligence features, you need an iPhone 15 Pro or later.

• With a refurbished iPhone 15 Pro you can save money and still get a high-end device with top performance and premium quality.

• Recommended models: iPhone 15 Pro (Max), iPhone 16 (Plus) and iPhone 16 Pro (Max). These devices offer full support for Apple Intelligence.

Whether you stick with your current device or upgrade, there is a solution for every need. The important thing is that you are clear about which features and functions are most important to you.

Conclusion: Should you upgrade?

Apple has released iOS 18, a comprehensive update that includes numerous new features and improvements. If you have an iPhone that supports iOS 18, you should definitely try the update. The improved security features, new customization options, and optimized apps make your iPhone experience even better.

If you're using one of the older models like the iPhone 8 or iPhone X, you won't have access to iOS 18, but there's no need to panic. iOS 17 is still a powerful operating system with many modern features. And thanks to Apple's commitment to security, you'll likely receive important security updates for years to come - as was the case with the iPhone 6s and 6s Plus.

However, if you don't want to miss out on features like Apple Intelligence or the latest innovations, upgrading to a newer iPhone is worth considering. Especially with devices like the iPhone 13 or 14, you can expect significantly better performance and longer battery life.

Whether you decide to buy a new model or keep your current iPhone, with iOS 18 Apple has once again shown how versatile and future-proof the iPhone can be. And if you are looking for a cheap alternative, our refurbished models could be just the right thing for you. Sustainable, well prepared and ready for the future!