iOS 26 adaptive power mode not for all iPhones: Check if your device is compatible

Apple is set to introduce a new AI-powered battery-saving feature called adaptive power mode with the upcoming iOS 26 update.

Designed to intelligently manage performance and extend battery life, the feature has caught the attention of many iPhone users. However, not every iPhone will support it.

While iOS 26 will be available for iPhone 11 and newer models, adaptive power mode will only be available on select devices that are compatible with Apple Intelligence features.

How adaptive power mode works

Unlike the existing low power mode, which reduces background activity, the new adaptive power mode will use artificial intelligence to manage power-hungry processes more dynamically. According to Apple, the system will:

“Make small performance adjustments to extend your battery life, including slightly lowering the display brightness or allowing some activities to take a little longer.”

The feature is not enabled by default. Users will need to activate it manually via the Settings app once iOS 26 is installed.

Compatible iPhones for adaptive power mode

The following models will support the adaptive power mode in iOS 26:

iPhone 15 Pro
iPhone 15 Pro Max
iPhone 16
iPhone 16 Plus
iPhone 16 Pro
iPhone 16 Pro Max
iPhone 16e

These are devices that also support Apple Intelligence, which underpins the adaptive capabilities of this feature.

What it means for future iPhones

Apple is expected to launch the ultra-slim iPhone 17 Air in September. With reports suggesting a smaller battery due to the slim design, adaptive power mode could play a crucial role in optimising battery life on that model.

The iOS 26 update is currently in beta testing and is expected to roll out officially alongside the iPhone 17 series later this year.