Apple has unveiled a plethora of new features and updates for its devices during the highly anticipated WWDC 2025 event. Among these, iOS 26 stands out with a host of enhancements, but it’s important to note that some features are exclusive to newer iPhone models. While a variety of iPhones are capable of upgrading to iOS 26, not every device will have access to the full range of functionalities.

A significant number of features leverage Apple Intelligence, the tech giant’s suite of generative AI enhancements. Unfortunately, this intelligent support is restricted to the iPhone 15 Pro and later models, which include the iPhone 15 Pro Max, as well as the iPhone 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, and 16 Pro Max. Users owning any of the preceding models will miss out on both existing functionalities introduced since the iOS 18 era and new features rolled out in iOS 26. This distinction can create some confusion, considering numerous iPhones from the iPhone 11 onward can run iOS 26, yet lack access to these advanced tools.

Key Features You Might Be Missing Without a Newer Device

Real-Time Translation

One of the standout features in iOS 26, iPadOS 26, and macOS Tahoe is the Live Translation functionality. This tool employs AI to provide instantaneous translation of both text and audio across multiple applications. Imagine receiving messages in unfamiliar languages, with translations appearing seamlessly alongside them, or enjoying conversations over phone calls without the language barrier thanks to real-time translations.

Visual Intelligence Enhancements

While Visual Intelligence made its debut with iOS 18.2, significant upgrades have come with the release of iOS 26. Initially exclusive to the iPhone 16, the feature now extends its capabilities to include the analysis of screenshots, allowing users to capture images and have the AI process the content. This enhancement makes it easier to leverage Visual Intelligence beyond merely pointing the camera at live subjects.

Lens Cleaning Notifications

There’s nothing more disappointing than realizing your photos are blurry due to a dirty lens. To combat this, iOS 26 introduces an AI-assisted notification system that alerts users when the camera lens may require cleaning. Although this feature wasn’t highlighted during the launch, beta testers have confirmed its existence in the new Camera app.

Genmoji and Image Playground Updates

iOS 26 also brings exciting improvements to Genmoji and Image Playground, which were introduced last year. These AI features now allow users to combine different Genmoji and emojis to create entirely new icons, adding a fun twist reminiscent of the “Emoji Kitchen” concept. Additionally, the Image Playground allows for the incorporation of various artistic styles, including anime and painting styles like oil and watercolor, enhancing creative possibilities.

AI-Enhanced Shortcuts

Shortcuts has been a familiar tool for iPhone users since iOS 12, yet with the latest iOS 26 release, it integrates cutting-edge AI capabilities. This update will enable users to summarize text, generate images, and harness Apple Intelligence models to enrich their automated tasks.

Additional Noteworthy Features in Messages and Reminders

Messages Features

The Messages app is undergoing revamps this year, introducing helpful additions such as the ability to create polls and choose from a selection of backgrounds. Although similar functionalities exist in other messaging platforms, their arrival in Messages is a welcome enhancement. All iPhones compatible with iOS 26 will have access to these features; however, AI functionalities within polls will only be available for iPhone 15 Pro and newer users, providing AI-generated poll suggestions.

Intelligent Reminders

For users with iPhones that support Apple Intelligence, iOS 26 will offer smart reminder suggestions based on conversations in messages and emails. For instance, if a discussion about grocery shopping arises, an automatic suggestion to purchase coffee may pop up. The new “Auto-Categorize” feature utilizes AI to organize task lists efficiently, simplifying user organization.

Updates to Apple Wallet

On compatible models, iOS 26 will enhance Apple Wallet’s functionality by fetching data from emails to provide real-time order tracking. While basic tracking exists, this AI-integration aims to improve the experience significantly.

Lock Screen Improvements

One unique non-AI feature in iOS 26 is the new dynamic 3D effect on the Lock Screen. This feature, however, is limited to devices from iPhone 12 onward, which adjusts the time display based on the selected photo to emphasize the subject matter. Unfortunately, users with iPhone 11 models will not benefit from this feature.