The phrase refers to the potential for a specific Apple smartphone model, the iPhone 13 Pro, to function correctly with a hypothetical future operating system version, iOS 26. It addresses whether all features and functionalities of the newer operating system will be supported and perform as expected on the older hardware. A device having full compatibility indicates that the software and hardware work seamlessly together, providing the intended user experience.
Compatibility between operating systems and devices is crucial for maintaining device usability and extending its lifespan. Historically, Apple has provided software updates for several years after a device’s initial release. However, as newer operating systems introduce more demanding features and technologies, older hardware may eventually become incompatible, leading to performance degradation or feature limitations. A lack of compatibility can force users to upgrade their devices, impacting consumer satisfaction and potentially contributing to e-waste.