These Are the iPhones That Can Upgrade to iOS 14

The latest iOS version hit iPhones in September 2020, but which models work with iOS 14. There's good news on that front since all iPhone models that could run iOS 13 can also run iOS 14. That means all of the following iPhone models are compatible with iOS 14 and all of its features. And as you can see below, the iPhones that came out in the fall of 2020 have iOS 14 preinstalled.

While it may seem unprecedented for all iPhone models on the previous iOS version to support iOS 14, it's not the first time it's happened. Apple's iOS 13 did kick a few phones to the curb (the iPhone 5S, 6, and 6 Plus), but iOS 12 supported all iPhone models that ran on the previous iOS version.

It also happened when iOS 10 worked with all iOS 9 models. Going even further back, iOS 6 supported the three iPhones running iOS 5, and iPhone OS 2 and 3 both worked with all of the previous year's models.

However, iOS 14 is the first time in Apple's history that 19 different iPhone models work on the same iOS version. Previously, iOS 13 held the record with 15 compatible iPhone models.

These Are the iPhones That Can Upgrade to iOS 14 — *Image by Justin Meyers/Gadget Hacks*

As of right now, the iPhone 5S still holds the record for the longest amount of support by Apple. It was viable for 5 years, 10 months, from its initial release with iOS 7 until its end of lifespan with iOS 12.4.1. However, it saw a few unsuspected security updates even after that, all the way up to iOS 12.4.7, making it 6 years, 8 months total.

The iOS 14 update is suspected to be the last major version for the iPhone 6S, 6S Plus, and original SE, all of which use 2015's A9 chip. The only way for the 6S and 6S Plus to break the 5S's record is if security updates get issued after iOS 15 comes out in the fall of 2021. So the iPhone 5S will retain its title for the iPhone supported the longest by Apple until at least the end of next year.

So, what about the iPod touch and iPad? Well, since the iPod touch (7th generation) worked with iOS 13, it'll work with iOS 14 too. And for iPadOS 14, all iPad models that supported iPadOS 13 also work with the newest update.

Just updated your iPhone? You'll find new emoji, enhanced security, podcast transcripts, Apple Cash virtual numbers, and other useful features. There are even new additions hidden within Safari. Find out what's new and changed on your iPhone with the iOS 17.4 update.

Cover photo by Justin Meyers/Gadget Hacks