Apple's New Software: Which iPhones, iPads, Macs May Lose Support

Apple is expected to unveil its next-generation operating systems—iOS 27, iPadOS 27, and macOS 27—at its Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) next week. However, emerging reports suggest that several older iPhone, iPad, and Mac models might be excluded from the latest software updates. This potential shift marks a point where Apple's commitment to supporting legacy hardware could see significant changes.

Historically, Apple has maintained a strong track record of providing software support for its devices for an extended period. This strategy has often allowed users to keep their existing hardware for longer. Yet, as operating systems become more advanced and demand more processing power, the need to phase out older models becomes inevitable. This year, anticipation is high as several iPhone, iPad, and Mac models are reportedly on the chopping block for iOS 27, iPadOS 27, and macOS 27 compatibility.

Based on an analysis of industry rumors, particularly a detailed list from Weibo leaker Instant Digital concerning iOS 27-compatible iPhones, a specific set of devices is projected to lose support. For iPhones, models such as the iPhone 11 Pro Max, iPhone 11 Pro, iPhone 11, and the iPhone SE (2nd generation) are flagged as potentially incompatible.

While official word on iPad compatibility is still pending, projections for iPadOS 27 suggest that devices like the iPad (8th generation), iPad Air 3, and iPad mini 5 might also be excluded. This forecast is largely extrapolated from the expected iPhone compatibility list; if Apple decides to discontinue support for another generation of its flagship phones, it's plausible that these particular iPad models would follow suit.

macOS 27 to Exclude Intel-Based Macs

The situation for macOS 27 appears to have more concrete information, with Apple itself having made recent announcements regarding Intel-based Macs. Last year, Apple confirmed that macOS 27 would not support machines running on Intel processors. Consequently, the MacBook Pro (16‑inch, 2019), MacBook Pro (13‑inch, 2020, Four Thunderbolt 3 ports), iMac (2020), and Mac Pro (2019)—the last Intel-based models capable of running the current macOS 26—are expected to be excluded from the upcoming macOS 27 update.

This move by Apple signifies a continued transition away from Intel processors, accelerating its adoption of its own Apple Silicon chips. This strategic shift towards in-house silicon has enabled the company to achieve greater performance and efficiency gains across its product lines, but it inevitably creates a hardware cutoff for older machines that lack the necessary architecture or power. The decision impacts users who may still rely on these specific Intel Macs for their daily tasks and professional workflows.

The phasing out of support for older hardware raises questions for consumers and businesses alike. Will these exclusion decisions prompt users of the affected Apple devices to upgrade sooner than anticipated? The company's approach to software support has always been a balancing act between innovation and user base retention. As Apple pushes the boundaries of what its devices can do with new software features, ensuring that the underlying hardware can support these advancements becomes paramount. The compatibility lists for iOS 27, iPadOS 27, and macOS 27 are expected to be officially revealed at WWDC, which begins on June 10, 2026, offering clarity on the future of software support for many iPhone models and other Apple products.