Some iOS 26 Features Won’t Work on Older iPhones

Apple is rolling out iOS 26 to iPhone 11 and newer models, but as usual, not all features are available on older devices.

iOS 26 introduces a new “Liquid Glass” design and AI-powered Apple Intelligence tools. While all compatible iPhones get the new look, some features require newer hardware.

Visual Intelligence in Screenshots: iPhone 15 Pro and up only

With new iOS 26, Apple’s Visual Intelligence can analyze screenshots to detect objects or brands. This feature only works on iPhone 15 Pro and newer.

Live Translation in Messages, FaceTime & Phone Calls

Apple adds Live Translation to iOS 26. Messages get automatic translations, FaceTime converts speech to text, and voice calls are translated in real-time. Turkish is not supported yet, and the feature is limited to iPhone 15 Pro and above.

3D Lock Screen Effects: iPhone 12 and newer

iOS 26 allows any photo on your lock screen to display a 3D motion effect. It’s like a refined version of the old Parallax effect, available on iPhone 12 and up.

AI-powered Shortcuts: iPhone 15 Pro and newer only

Apple Intelligence brings new shortcut actions like image generation or text summarization, but only available on iPhone 15 Pro and later.

Smart Reminders and Auto-Organizing Lists

Reminders app can now analyze messages or emails to suggest to-dos or grocery items, and even auto-organize them — if you're using iPhone 15 Pro or newer.

Custom Backgrounds & Polls in Messages: New iPhones only

The Messages app now supports poll creation and custom backgrounds. While polls can be created on any iPhone, only newer models offer AI-generated poll suggestions and Image Playground backgrounds.

At WWDC25, Apple promised Turkish support for Apple Intelligence, but key features like Live Translation, Call Screening, and Hold Assist do not support Turkish yet. Also, Apple Cash and Wallet tracking are unavailable in Turkey.