The Decline of Apple Device Software Support

Apple has announced the upcoming release of the next versions of its operating systems at WWDC 2026, set to launch in mid-September. This year, there are significant changes to the compatibility list, especially for Apple Watches and iPads.

Good news for iPhone users, as devices running iOS 26 will still be compatible with iOS 27. However, some restrictions may apply to certain features, particularly related to Apple Intelligence enhancements.

Intel Macs are being phased out

All Intel Macs will no longer receive macOS 27 Golden Gate, including the 16-inch MacBook Pro from 2019. This marks a turning point for Mac users, with older Intel Macs already excluded from receiving macOS 26 Tahoe last year.

iPad users will also be affected, as iPadOS 27 raises the system requirements to the A14 or M1 chip, excluding models such as the 2018 iPad Pro and various other iPad variants.

The grass isn’t necessarily greener on the other side of the fence – Your Android phone has an expiry date. Here’s how to find it.

Apple Watches & more

This year sees a significant cut in Apple Watch compatibility, with models like the Apple Watch Series 6, 7, 8, SE 2, and Ultra 1 not receiving watchOS 27. Additionally, two Apple TV models, including the 2015 Apple TV HD and 2017 Apple TV 4K 1, will not support tvOS 27.

Here’s the complete list of Apple devices losing software support from September 2026:

macOS 27 Golden Gate

• ‌MacBook Pro‌ 16-inch (2019)
• Mac Pro (2019)
• ‌MacBook Pro‌ 13-inch (2020)
• ‌iMac‌ (2020)

iPadOS 27

• ‌iPad Air‌ 3 (2019)
• ‌iPad Pro‌ 3 12.9-inch (2018)
• ‌iPad Pro‌ 1 (2018)
• ‌iPad‌ 8 (2020)
• ‌iPad Mini‌ 5 (2019)

watchOS 27

• Apple Watch Series 6 (2020)
• Apple Watch Series 7 (2021)
• Apple Watch Series 8 (2022)
• Apple Watch Ultra 1 (2022)
• Apple Watch SE 2 (2022)

tvOS 27

• ‌Apple TV‌ HD (2015)
• ‌Apple TV‌ 4K (2017)

This article originally appeared on our sister publication Macwelt and was translated and adapted from German.