Rumors and Analysis: iOS 19 May Drop Support for iPhone XS, XS Max, and XR

Rumors and Analysis: iOS 19 May Drop Support for iPhone XS, XS Max, and XRRumors suggest that Apple's upcoming iOS 19 will drop support for three iPhone models: the iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, and iPhone XR. This contradicts earlier rumors stating that the iOS 19 compatibility list would remain unchanged, sparking considerable attention

Rumors and Analysis: iOS 19 May Drop Support for iPhone XS, XS Max, and XR

Rumors suggest that Apple's upcoming iOS 19 will drop support for three iPhone models: the iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, and iPhone XR. This contradicts earlier rumors stating that the iOS 19 compatibility list would remain unchanged, sparking considerable attention. The rumor originated from an anonymous private social media account with a history of accurate leaks, lending it some credibility. However, some inconsistencies exist.

The rumor claims iOS 19 will only support the iPhone 17, iPhone 16, iPhone 15, iPhone 14, iPhone 13, iPhone 12, iPhone 11, iPhone SE (3rd generation), and iPhone SE (2nd generation). The leaker also stated that the 7th generation iPad will not support the upcoming iPadOS 19. This aligns with previously leaked iPadOS 19 compatibility information. Reportedly, iPadOS 19 will support iPad mini 5 and later, iPad (8th generation) and later, iPad Air (3rd generation) and later, all 11-inch iPad Pro models, and 12.9-inch iPad Pro (3rd generation) and later.

It's noteworthy that the iPhone XS, XS Max, and XR, rumored to be dropped, all feature the A12 Bionic chip. However, many entry-level iPads compatible with iPadOS 19 also use the A12 Bionic chip. This discrepancy raises questions. Why would Apple drop support for A12-powered iPhones in the same OS version while continuing to support A12-powered iPads? This seems unusual, especially given the similarities between iOS and iPadOS.

This differential treatment could stem from several reasons. First, Apple may not base compatibility solely on the chipset. Specific hardware specifications, such as RAM, storage, or particular sensors, might play a more significant role. Even if iPhones and iPads use the same chip, differences in other hardware configurations could prevent certain iOS 19 features from running smoothly on A12-powered iPhones.

Another possibility is that iOS 19 introduces features absent in iPadOS 19. These features might demand higher system performance, exceeding the A12 Bionic chip's capabilities, leading Apple to discontinue support. This would explain why the A12 chip works with iPadOS 19 on iPads but not iOS 19 on iPhones. iPadOS typically has slightly different feature sets and performance requirements compared to iOS, resulting in varying performance even with the same chipset.

Of course, these are speculative conclusions based on existing rumors and analysis. Apple hasn't officially announced the iOS 19 and iPadOS 19 compatibility lists. Apple is known for its tight control over hardware and software, and its OS update strategy often sparks speculation. Their final compatibility plan likely depends on R&D progress, technical considerations, and market strategy.

Further details on iOS 19 and iPadOS 19 remain confidential. Apple is expected to officially unveil both operating systems at WWDC (Worldwide Developers Conference) on June 9th, 2025. The official compatibility list will then be revealed, addressing all compatibility questions. After WWDC, both operating systems will undergo summer testing before a public release in September. Until then, all compatibility rumors should be considered speculation; official announcements are the ultimate authority.

While the anonymous social media account has accurately predicted some Apple moves in the past, caution is warranted with unverified rumors. Any definitive conclusion about iOS 19 compatibility must await official confirmation from Apple. We'll continue to monitor Apple's announcements in the coming months and provide updates. Questions surrounding the differential treatment of the A12 chip in iPhones and iPads, and whether iOS 19's new features demand higher performance from the A12 chip, will be answered upon the official release of iOS 19. At that time, we'll provide a more comprehensive analysis and review of this rumor.