Introduction
Apple’s latest iteration of its mobile operating system, iOS 17 supported devices, is set to bring exciting new features and improvements for iPhone users. However, as with any major iOS update, not all iPhone models will be compatible with iOS 17. This article will provide a comprehensive overview of which iPhone models in the USA, UK, and Canada will support iOS 17.
iOS 17 is expected to be released in September 2023 alongside the rumored iPhone 15 lineup. Apple generally provides software support for iPhone devices for 5-6 years after their release, meaning older models inevitably get left behind on older iOS versions. Knowing which iPhones are compatible with iOS 17 will be helpful for those considering upgrading their OS or buying a new iPhone.
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Supported iPhone Models
Based on Apple’s usual software support timelines and the capabilities of newer versus older iPhones, the following iPhone models are expected to be capable of running iOS 17 in the US, UK, and Canada:
iPhone 15 Series (2023)
The upcoming iPhone 15 lineup, expected to be announced in September 2023, will ship with iOS 17 pre-installed. This includes:
- iPhone 15
- iPhone 15 Plus
- iPhone 15 Pro
- iPhone 15 Pro Max
As Apple’s newest and most advanced iPhones, the iPhone 15 series will fully support all features in iOS 17.
iPhone 14 Series (2022)
Last year’s iPhone 14 models will be compatible with iOS 17. This encompasses:
- iPhone 14
- iPhone 14 Plus
- iPhone 14 Pro
- iPhone 14 Pro Max
The iPhone 14 series still packs plenty of power and capability to handle iOS 17 features and updates.
iPhone 13 Series (2021)
iOS 17 will be compatible with 2021’s iPhone 13 lineup:
- iPhone 13
- iPhone 13 mini
- iPhone 13 Pro
- iPhone 13 Pro Max
Despite being two years old when iOS 17 launches, the iPhone 13 series runs the same A15 Bionic processor as iPhone 14, allowing it to support the latest iOS.
iPhone 12 Series (2020)
Remarkably, 2020’s iPhone 12 series will also be iOS 17 compatible, including:
- iPhone 12 mini
- iPhone 12
- iPhone 12 Pro
- iPhone 12 Pro Max
Thanks to Apple’s custom A14 Bionic chip, the iPhone 12 family will continue to support new iOS versions for years to come.
iPhone SE (3rd Generation, 2022)
The latest iteration of the iPhone SE, released in March 2022, will also support iOS 17. This affordable iPhone packs the A15 Bionic chip just like the iPhone 13 and 14, allowing iOS 17 compatibility.
Not Supported: iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus, iPhone X
Conversely, older iPhone models originally released in 2017/2018 will not be able to upgrade to iOS 17. These models include:
- iPhone 8
- iPhone 8 Plus
- iPhone X
These iPhones all utilize Apple’s A11 Bionic chip. iOS 16 is likely the final supported iOS version for these aging iPhones.
Key Reasons for iOS 17 Compatibility
There are a few key factors that determine whether an iPhone can support new iOS versions:
- Processor: New iOS versions require faster, more capable processors. The A13 chip or newer is needed to handle iOS 17.
- RAM: More RAM allows for better multitasking and performance. At least 4GB RAM is needed for iOS 17.
- Software Optimization: Apple optimizes new iOS for the latest iPhones, and older models inevitably lose support.
Essentially, newer iPhones have the best hardware and get the most software optimization from Apple. This allows them to support major OS updates like iOS 17, while older models get left behind.
Impact on App Support
Apps requiring iOS 17 will only be usable on supported iPhone models. Any apps needing iOS 17 or later will not open on iPhone 8/X or earlier.
This may eventually impact app support for older unsupported models. However, apps tend to support 2-3 years of iOS versions. So iPhone 8/X users will likely maintain decent app compatibility for a while after iOS 17’s release.
Summary of iOS 17 Compatible iPhone Models
To summarize, here are the iPhone models expected to fully support iOS 17 in the USA, UK, and Canada upon its release:
- iPhone 15 Series: iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max
- iPhone 14 Series: iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, iPhone 14 Pro, iPhone 14 Pro Max
- iPhone 13 Series: iPhone 13, iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 13 Pro, iPhone 13 Pro Max
- iPhone 12 Series: iPhone 12 mini, iPhone 12, iPhone 12 Pro, iPhone 12 Pro Max
- iPhone SE (3rd Generation, 2022)
Any iPhone model older than the iPhone 8 or iPhone X will not be compatible with iOS 17. This covers the entire iPhone 6 and earlier generations, as well as the original iPhone SE.
Upgrading to an iOS 17-supported iPhone will ensure you can utilize the latest features and security updates iOS 17 will bring. Or, consider budget options like the latest iPhone SE that will still support iOS 17 despite the lower cost. Avoid buying older, used iPhones if you want iOS 17 compatibility.
With a little planning, you can make sure your current or next iPhone purchase is ready for iOS 17. Apple is likely to announce iOS 17 and the new iPhone 15 lineup in September of 2023, so anticipate an official rollout soon after.
Conclusion
iOS 17 promises to introduce new capabilities that will push what iPhones can do to the next level. With exciting rumors of features like satellite emergency messaging, users are eagerly awaiting this major iOS update. Hopefully this breakdown of which iPhone models will support iOS 17 in the USA, UK, and Canada helps you determine if you’ll be able to upgrade your iPhone when iOS 17 debuts. Considering purchasing a new iPhone model that will fully support iOS 17 to take advantage of the latest innovations Apple provides in their software and devices.