Users of these devices will need to decide if they want to continue using their current iPhone or upgrade it to a newer model that is compatible with the latest version of iOS. While older iPhones once reigned, they no longer have the processing capabilities needed to support all the features of iOS 17. For example, the improved autocorrect feature, which uses a new machine learning model and supports online correction and completion of full sentences, requires an iPhone 12 or later. To determine your iPhone model based on physical details, see the Apple Support article Identify your iPhone model. For example, while FaceTime on Apple TV works with any iPhone compatible with iOS 17, a second-generation Apple TV 4K is required.
When the iOS 17 update is released, it won't be possible to install it on iPhone 8 and iPhone X, or on any iPhone older than those iPhones. Other iPhone models that are not compatible with iOS 17 include the iPhone 7, the iPhone 7 Plus, and the iPhone SE (first generation). It's important to note that even if Apple stops offering support for a particular iPhone model, that device will continue to work and you'll be able to download and install apps that are compatible with your latest compatible version of iOS. If you have an iPhone 8 or iPhone X or even something older and you're excited about the new features in iOS 17, you might want to consider upgrading to a new iPhone this fall. Those iPhones will continue to be compatible with iOS 16, which Apple is likely to keep for some time with security updates.
If your iPhone doesn't receive the iOS 17 update, you can continue to use your current version of iOS, consider upgrading to a newer iPhone that's compatible with iOS 17, or explore alternative smartphone platforms if you want the latest software and feature updates. Apple generally supports iPhones up to five years old with their most recent operating systems, and of course, some features require even newer hardware to be compatible.
