iOS jumps to OS26, but leaves a handful of devices behind….
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Apple has surprised many with its bold move, skipping directly from iOS 18 to iOS 26. This unprecedented jump is part of a new strategy to align operating system version numbers with their release year, aiming for a more streamlined and intuitive approach to software updates. While this brings exciting new features and a “Liquid Glass” design, it also signifies the end of the road for several beloved devices. If you’re holding onto an iPhone 10 (or any of the X series, including the XR and XS) or an iPad 7 series, you’ll unfortunately not be receiving the iOS 26 update. This means no new feature updates, though thankfully, security patches are expected to continue for a few years, offering a brief reprieve.
This accelerated loss of devices each year does cause financial anxiety, and does hit some user groups harder than others. As operating systems evolve and become more sophisticated, older devices can become vulnerable due to lack of compatibility and diminishing performance. This poses a significant challenge for less fortunate iPhone users and blind individuals on fixed incomes who rely heavily on their devices for daily tasks. For these users, an upgrade isn’t just about having the latest tech; it’s about maintaining access to critical “accessible Apps” that are essential for navigating the world, making it a tough choice between needing the technology and risking a heavy bill.
However, amidst these challenges, Apple is also pushing forward with innovations that promise to enhance accessibility. The advent of “Apple Intelligence” is rapidly becoming a new standard for tech-savvy blind individuals, offering groundbreaking AI technology integrated deeply into the user experience. Features like enhanced object and scene recognition, advanced voice commands, improved app integration, and personalized assistance are transforming how blind users interact with their devices, making everyday tasks more intuitive and efficient. This balance of “needing the technology and risking a heavy bill” is a constant tightrope walk, but the continuous evolution of accessible AI offers hope for an even more inclusive digital future.
