The range of devices able to operate with a specific version of Apple’s mobile operating system represents the set of compatible or supported hardware. This signifies which iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch models can install and run a particular iOS release, such as a hypothetical “iOS 26.” For example, certain older iPhone models were not able to upgrade beyond iOS 12 due to hardware limitations, demonstrating the concept in practice.
Compatibility is vital because it determines the lifespan of a device in terms of software updates and access to new features. Continued support provides users with security patches, performance improvements, and access to the latest applications. Historically, a device’s eventual exclusion from the supported list is driven by evolving hardware demands of the operating system, making older processors and memory insufficient.