How to Get iOS 18 on Older iPhones

Has the thought ever crossed your mind on how to upgrade older iPhones to iOS 18? Every year, Apple releases a new iOS version with great features; however, many of its users have wondered if their iPhone device is ready for the latest operating system update. 

Thankfully, one can upgrade older iPhones to iOS 18. However, you will first need to see whether your phone is compatible and meets the system requirements.

Meanwhile, one must conduct an iOS 18 compatibility check before the update. Apple has just specified models that can smoothly run the new software; thus, not all older iPhones may make it. 

Well, do not be worried. We will walk you through the steps for an older iPhone upgrade and ensure that it meets all the iOS 18 system requirements so that it upgrades seamlessly.

In this article, we will walk through all you need to know about updating older iPhones to iOS 18, from checking the compatibility of your device to guiding you through its system requirements. You will, in turn, learn how to take full advantage of your gadget.

Now, let’s start on how to upgrade your old iPhone and enjoy the great features iOS 18 has in store!

Overview of iOS 18

iOS 18 from Apple introduces new waves of innovation to enrich user experiences and functionality on the iPhone more enriching. Rich in exciting features, the new operating system offers a smoother interface that guarantees great performance.

While many of its users hope to upgrade older iPhones to iOS 18, a leap like this must be pre-planned and ascertained whether your device will be capable of supporting it.

Not every model will support this upgrade; therefore, checking iOS 18 compatibility is essential.

That said, iOS 18 system requirements are high and demanding for older iPhone models. However, Apple did a great job of optimizing the operating system to run on as many devices as possible.

iOS 18 can certainly breathe new life into an older iPhone. Thanks to improved efficiencies and performance tweaks, it’s a way for older iPhones to stay relevant just that little bit longer. 

Checking to see if your phone meets the iOS 18 system requirements will help avoid performance hiccups:.

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What iPhones are Compatible with iOS 18?

iOS 18 provides support for a wide array of iPhone models. In this regard, all the iPhones that support iOS 17 can similarly be upgraded to iOS 18. Here’s the list of all the compatible models.

1. iPhone XR, XS, XS Max
2. iPhone 11 Series
3. iPhone 12 Series: mini and Pro versions
4. iPhone 13 Series
5. iPhone 14 Series
6. iPhone SE (2nd generation, 3rd generation)
7. iPhone 15 Series (the newest models)

If you own any of them, you’re lucky because you can upgrade your older iPhone to iOS 18 and take advantage of fresh features. 

At the same time, though, Apple is issuing more and more new software, which just means that upgrading older iPhones can result in limitations in performance or features. Pay close attention to iOS 18 system requirements for a smooth experience.

How to Check iOS 18 Compatibility?

The following is how you can try to find out if your iPhone is compatible with iOS 18:

1. Go to Apple’s Official List of iOS 18 Devices

Every time a new iOS is released, Apple has announced those iOS devices that the system will have compatibility with.

You can look at their official website or the official announcement of the iOS 18 update and look for your iPhone model in the list. The general information about how to do that follows below:

• Go to [Apple’s iOS support page](https://www.apple.com/ios/)
• Look for the iOS 18 compatibility list, which shows all eligible iPhones.

2. Check on Your iPhone

You can quickly check whether your iPhone is eligible for the iOS 18 update from your device settings:

• Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
• Scroll down and tap General.
• Tap Software Update. If iOS 18 is available for your device, it will appear here.
• You will then see the option to download and install iOS 18 if your iPhone supports it.

3. Check Your iPhone Model

Not all new versions of iOS can be supported by older iPhone models. Usually, Apple has software updates available for devices up to five years old. To check your iPhone model:

• Go to Settings > General > About.
• Under Model Name, you will find the exact model of your iPhone.
• Look for the Apple official compatibility list and compare your model to the ones on the list.

This will all be done in easy steps so that, in the end, you will easily be informed whether your device can run iOS 18 and what features you will have access to.

Also Read – How to Transfer Everything from Your Old Phone to New Phone without Wi-Fi

What are the iOS 18 System Requirements for Upgrade?

To upgrade older iPhones to iOS 18, several iOS 18 system requirements have been set, focusing mainly on hardware specifications. The requirement is that devices should at least run on the A12 Bionic chip.

This only means that any iPhone or iPad running on an A11 Bionic chip or older cannot run a download and installation of iOS 18/iPadOS 18.

System Requirements Overview

• Minimum Chip Requirement: It requires an A12 Bionic chip or later. 
• Storage Space: Users must have between 5GB and 10GB in free storage space for the update.

While a greater number of devices that can support iOS 17 can also support the new operating system, iOS 18, advanced features like Apple Intelligence require the A17 Pro chip, available with new device models such as the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max. 

Therefore, even though a device may be able to run a new operating system, it may not always be able to support all its new features.

In other words, any iPhone older than an iPhone with at least an A12 Bionic chip with adequate storage must upgrade to iOS 18/iPadOS 18.

How to Upgrade Older iPhone to iOS 18?

Upgrading older iPhones to iOS 18 involves a few easy steps. Ensuring a seamless upgrade means getting you up and running on the latest features and enhancements. Here is how you upgrade:

1. Backup Your Data

First, back up your device before upgrading: back up directly with iCloud or connect your device to a computer using iTunes or Finder.

It is important to back up so that, in case something goes wrong during an upgrade, important information such as contacts, photos, and applications is safe.

To back up using iCloud, go to Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > iCloud Backup and tap BackUp Now. If you use a computer, connect your iPhone, open iTunes or Finder on your computer, select your device, and then select Backup Now.

2. Check for Updates

Check if iOS 18 is available for your device. Go into your iPhone’s Settings, tap General, and select Software Update.

Immediately, the device will automatically check for available updates. If your device is compatible with iOS 18, you will see an option to download the new software.

Also Read – New iPhone 16 Series: Everything You Need to Know

3. Download and Install

At this point, if iOS 18 is available for your device, tap Download and Install. Note: The iPhone should be on a Wi-Fi network to avoid data charges, have at least 30% battery life or be connected with a charger.

Wi-Fi is recommended since downloading large updates on cellular data can result in huge bills. Your iPhone will ask you to accept the terms and conditions; carefully read them and proceed.

4. Enter Passcode

If asked to do so, enter a passcode to authorize the installation. This is a security measure so that authorized users can make changes to the device.

If you have forgotten your passcode, which may be required before you can proceed further with the upgrade, you will have to reset it.

5. Follow the Prompts

Then, after you enter the passcode, follow the on-screen instructions that will wrap up the installation process.

It will start updating your iPhone, which may take some time and depends on your internet speed and the update size.

When the update is complete, your iPhone will restart automatically. When it starts up again, you may be asked to enter your Apple ID password to finish the setup.

6. Automatic Updates (Optional)

You can turn on the automatic update for future upgrades, saving you the headache of searching for updates later. 

How to enable: Go to Settings, then General, then Software Update, and then Automatic Updates. Tap both options to ensure that your iPhone receives constant updates on features and security patches with minimal fuss.

These steps will help you easily upgrade an older iPhone to iOS 18 and ensure that it is compatible with the minimum iOS 18 system requirements.

You are always advised to check on Apple’s official website for compatibility and features available in your region.

Read Also – iPhone 16 to be Released this September

What Should You Do If You Can’t Find the Update Option?

If your old iPhone is not showing up for iOS 18, it’s about time to troubleshoot. Here is how you may do that in simple steps:

1. Checking for Compatibility: First, ensure your iPhone is compatible with iOS 18. The update is available on the iPhone XS, XR, 11, 12, 13, and 14, as well as on all iPhone 15 and 16 models. If your device is older than these models, upgrading to iOS 18 is impossible.

2. Check Your System Requirements: Your device needs enough storage space and battery life for an upgrade. You want to be at least on 50% or keep it plugged in while it upgrades. Support: Ensure you have at least 5GB or more of free space on your device.

3. Check Your Internet Connection: You need a stable Wi-Fi connection. If you are using data, go to Settings and turn on downloading updates over cellular networks.

4. Restart Your Device: Sometimes, software issues mean it just needs a restart. After your device has restarted, open again from Settings >> General >> Software Update.

5. Reset Network Settings: If you still can’t find the update option, you might want to try resetting your network settings. To do so, go to Settings, tap on General, then Reset, and select Reset Network Settings. It doesn’t delete your data, but it will reset Wi-Fi networks and passwords, cellular settings, and VPN/APN settings you have ever used.

6. Contact Apple Support: When these steps do not work, that is probably a good time to contact Apple Support for further assistance. They will be better positioned to provide tailored guidance specific to your device and situation.

By systematically going through the steps in the order listed above, you should be able to find the update option for upgrading an older phone or an older iPhone to iOS 18.

Final Thoughts

Upgrade your old iPhone to iOS 18 to give it a brand new life. First, perform the iOS 18 compatibility check; if it is compatible, then follow the steps above to upgrade seamlessly.

With this update, your device will perform better and operate with improved security while limiting access to newer features. Therefore, do not hesitate to give your device this update! If you liked this article, let us know in the comments below.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Reference

• Zdnet.com – iOS 18 is officially available for iPhone. Here’s how to download it (and which models support it)
• Cnet.com – Download iOS 18 for Your iPhone. How to Get It Right Now

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