A new report from a previously reliable source with alleged contacts within Apple suggests that all iPhones capable of running iOS 16 will be compatible with the upcoming iOS 17 operating system, contradicting earlier rumor which suggested that iOS 17 may drop support for certain devices, including the iPhone X.
On Tuesday, a credible source with a proven track record for accurately predicting the general release window of upcoming Apple software updates claimed that iOS 17 is likely to discontinue support for the iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus, and iPhone X. In addition, the source suggested that iPadOS 17 may drop support for the first-generation 9.7-inch and 12.9-inch iPad Pro, as well as the fifth-generation iPad.
The latest reports from two credible leakers have presented conflicting information on which iPhones will be compatible with the upcoming iOS 17. The main point of contention is whether the iPhone 8/Plus and iPhone X will be able to run the next major iOS update set to release later this year.
This uncertainty extends to iPadOS 17 as well, with questions about whether the fifth-generation iPad and the first-generation iPad Pro will be compatible with the new operating system.
In response to the previous rumor that iOS 17 will drop support for certain iPhone models, a credible leaker has provided conflicting information. According to this anonymous tipster, all iPhones capable of running iOS 16 will also support iOS 17, including the iPhone X and iPhone 8/8 Plus powered by A11 chipsets. This source has a proven track record of accurately revealing details about upcoming Apple products, such as the Dynamic Island feature on the iPhone 14 Pro models before their official launch.
Additionally, this leaker also claimed that the iPhone 15 Pro models will use a new ultra-low energy chip to keep the new volume, power, and “Action” solid-state buttons functional even when the phone is powered off or out of battery. They also suggested that iOS 17 will include a new sensitivity setting for these buttons. It is worth noting that this source has a reliable “man inside” Apple’s development team who occasionally provides information about hardware features that require complementary software development.
It’s worth noting that Apple typically provides software support for its devices for at least five years, with some devices receiving updates for even longer. However, as devices age, they may not be able to support certain features or performance improvements introduced in newer versions of iOS. This can result in Apple dropping support for some devices in major iOS releases, as was the case with iOS 16. However, if the latest claim about iOS 17’s device compatibility is true, it suggests that Apple may be sticking with the same list of compatible devices for another year.
At times, major iOS updates may result in the discontinuation of support for one or more older devices. For example, iOS 16 will not be compatible with the iPhone 6s/Plus, iPhone 7/Plus, first-generation iPhone SE, and the 7th-gen iPod Touch.
However, there are also instances where there is no change to the devices that are able to run the new iOS update. iOS 15, for instance, supported the same devices as iOS 14 without any major changes.
While it is still unclear which devices will be compatible with iOS 17, this latest report provides some reassurance for Apple users who were concerned that their device may not be supported. It’s important to note that neither Apple nor the source has officially confirmed which devices will be compatible with iOS 17, so it’s best to wait for official announcements before drawing any conclusions.
Source: MacRumors