At its annual conference on June 6, Apple unveiled iOS 16, iPadOS 16, and macOS Ventura. But as always, the updates won’t support older devices.
iOS 16 Brings New iPhone Capabilities
iOS 16, with major additions like a customizable lock screen and updated Messages, will come standard on the upcoming iPhone 14 line.
It will also be available as a free upgrade for:
- iPhone 13 series
- iPhone 12 series
- iPhone 11 series
- iPhone XS and XR
- iPhone X
- iPhone 8 series
- iPhone SE 2nd and 3rd gen
So models as old as the original iPhone SE will still run iOS 16.
iPadOS 16 Focuses on Workflows
iPadOS 16 emphasizes productivity through new features like Stage Manager windowing. It will support these iPad models:
- iPad Pro all generations
- iPad Air 3rd gen and newer
- iPad 5th gen and newer
- iPad mini 5th gen and newer
With Stage Manager and external display support, iPadOS 16 aims to expand the iPad’s capabilities as a work device.
macOS Ventura Adds Continuity Features
For Macs, macOS Ventura includes new Continuity tools like Handoff for FaceTime and seamless ecosystem integration.
The latest macOS will be compatible with:
- 2017 iMac and later
- 2017 MacBook Air and later
- 2017 MacBook Pro and later
- 2019 Mac Pro and later
- 2018 Mac mini and later
- 2017 iMac Pro
- 2017 MacBook and later
Apple positions macOS Ventura as an upgrade focused on workflow and convenience via deep iOS-MacOS integration.
Key Takeaways
- iOS 16 compatible devices include iPhone models as old as the 2016 iPhone SE.
- iPadOS 16 requires an iPad Air 3rd gen or iPad 5th gen at minimum.
- macOS Ventura supports Macs dating back to 2017 models.
- New software versions focus on productivity and tighter ecosystem integration.
While older devices get left behind, Apple’s latest software updates aim to provide new functionality for compatible iPhones, iPads and Macs. For supported models, the upgrades bring welcome new capabilities.