At the highly anticipated Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) 2023, Apple took the stage to introduce a range of new operating systems, including iOS 17, iPadOS 17, watchOS 10, and macOS Sonoma. Excitement filled the air as attendees and Apple enthusiasts eagerly awaited details about the features and devices that would be supported by these latest OS updates.
Starting with iOS 17, some Apple devices found themselves left out of the loop. The iPhone 8, 8 Plus, and X will not receive iOS 17. However, a silver lining emerged for owners of newer iPhone models. Compatible devices include the iPhone XR, XS, XS Max, the second-generation iPhone SE, and all subsequent iPhone releases.
Shifting the focus to iPadOS 17, there are a few notable exceptions regarding device compatibility. The 5th-generation iPad and 1st-generation 12.9-inch iPad Pro will not be able to run iPadOS 17. However, a wide range of iPad models will support the new OS, including the 6th generation iPad and later, iPad mini 5th generation and later, iPad Air 3rd generation and later, 12.9-inch iPad Pro 2nd generation and later, 10.5-inch iPad Pro, and 11-inch iPad Pro 1st generation and later.
For Apple Watch users, the compatibility landscape remains straightforward. All devices that support watchOS 9 starting with the Apple Watch Series 4, will be compatible with the upcoming watchOS 10, ensuring a seamless transition for Apple Watch enthusiasts.
Finally, Apple revealed the compatible devices for macOS Sonoma, the latest version of its desktop operating system. While some older models did not cut, numerous Mac devices are ready to embrace the new OS. Compatible devices include iMac models from 2019 and later, Mac Pro models from 2019 and later, iMac Pro (2017), Mac Studio since 2022, MacBook Air models from 2018 and later, Mac mini models from 2018 and later, and MacBook Pro models from 2018 and later.
As Apple pushes forward with its operating system updates, device compatibility plays a crucial role in ensuring a smooth and optimized user experience. While some users may find themselves unable to upgrade their older devices to the latest OS versions, the focus on supporting newer models guarantees that users can take full advantage of the advanced features and functionalities offered by iOS 17, iPadOS 17, watchOS 10, and macOS Sonoma.
