iOS 26 on iPhone X/XR: Problems & Fixes [2025 Guide]

Since the iOS 26 Beta was released, most users were keen to experience its features on their devices, including the old ones, such as the iPhone X/XR. Others have installed iOS 26 on iPhone X/XR, only to realize that it does not function at all. 

Due to this, users now want to turn to the older version of iOS they were using before the upgrade. In the post, we’ll go through the frequent issues that iPhone X/XR users face when they upgrade to iOS 26 and possible solutions to fix them!

Part 1: Is iOS 26 Compatible With iPhone X/XR?

No. iOS 26 on iPhone X/XR doesn’t function. The iPhone X/XR, released in 2017 with an A11 chip, can only update up to iOS 16.7.1. Apple stopped supporting it with iOS 17, and newer updates like iOS 26 need at least an iPhone 11 or newer.

Part 2: Common iOS 26 Issues on iPhone X/XR

Since the iPhone X/XR can’t run iOS 26 because its hardware doesn’t support it, trying to install iOS 26 forcefully causes issues on iPhone X/XR, such as:

• The phone might stop working (bricked).

• When upgraded to iOS 26, the battery on iPhone X/XR may display charging problems.

• It might not boot up properly.

• iPhone X/XR overheating after iOS 26 upgrade.

Part 3: How to Fix iOS 26 Problems on iPhone X/XR?

Now you know, the iOS 26 performance on iPhone X/XR may degrade, or iOS 26 may not function at all on iPhone X/XR. So, there are 3 ways you can fix this problem. Here’s how:

Way 1: Downgrade iOS 26 to 18 Using Tenorshare ReiBoot in 5 Minutes

The best way is to downgrade your iPhone X/XRR from iOS 26 to the latest stable version of iOS 18 in just 5 minutes. You can use the Tenorshare ReiBoot tool for that purpose. It doesn’t allow you to follow manual or complicated steps to downgrade, and will automatically perform this task in a few clicks. ReiBoot can also repair iOS issues and upgrade to the latest iOS version, including Betas. Here’s more about this tool:

• Fix 150+ iOS issues, including iOS device stuck on update screen/Apple logo/blue, black, or white screen/Recovery Mode/boot loop, etc.

• Fix iOS issues without iTunes, jailbreaking, and data loss.

• Fix iTunes errors and reset iOS devices without iTunes/passcode/Apple ID.

• Remove passcode without Apple ID.

• Permanently erase data without iTunes/Apple ID/passcode.

• Supports the latest iOS 19 Beta, iOS 26, and iOS 18 versions.

Here’s how to downgrade iOS 26 on iPhone X/XR with Tenorshare ReiBoot:

Step 1: Download ReiBoot on your computer. Then, connect your iPhone X/XR to the same PC. Trust your computer when asked on your phone.

Step 2: Click “iOS Upgrade/Downgrade.” Next, tap “Downgrade.” After this, choose “Download” to get the current iOS 18 firmware package. 

Step 3: Select “Initiating Downgrade” once the firmware is downloaded. Tap “Continue.” Your iPhone X/XR will be downgraded to the latest iOS 18 version from iOS 26.

Way 2: Restore iOS 18 with iTunes/Finder

You can also downgrade from iOS 26 to 18 on iPhone X/XR through iTunes/Finder. But you’ll have to place your iDevice into Recovery Mode, which requires a bit of technical knowledge. This is because you must press the right combo of buttons to put your iPhone X/XR into Recovery Mode so as not to brick it. Afterward, use iTunes/Finder to restore your iDevice. However, this method will erase all data from your phone. But if you have a backup, here are the steps to follow:

Step 1: Connect your iPhone X/XR to a computer. Then, open Finder (on newer Macs) or iTunes (on older Macs or Windows). Next, place your phone into Recovery Mode:

• iPhone X/XR: Press “Volume Up,” then “Volume Down” quickly. Then, hold the “Side” button until Recovery Mode appears.

Step 2: When iTunes/Finder detects your iPhone X/XR in Recovery Mode, click “OK.” Next, choose “Update” or “Restore.”

Way 3: If iTunes/Finder Doesn’t Recognize the iPhone: DFU Mode

In case if iTunes/Finder is unable to detect your iPhone X/XR in Recovery Mode, you can place it in DFU Mode. It will go on a deeper level, skipping a normal boot to restore your iDevice. However, this method has a complex button combo that, if used incorrectly, can brick your iPhone X/XR. It will also erase all data from your iDevice. But if you have a backup, here’s how to use this method:

Step 1: Connect your iPhone X/XR to a computer and open iTunes. Then, open Finder (on newer Macs) or iTunes (on older Macs or Windows). Next, place your phone into DFU Mode:

• iPhone X/XR: Press the “Volume Up” then “Volume Down” buttons. Hold “Power” until the screen goes black. Keep holding “Power” and press “Volume Down” for 5 seconds. Then, release the “Power” button. But keep holding “Volume Down” until iTunes detects DFU Mode.

Step 2: When iTunes/Finder detects your iPhone X/XR in DFU Mode, follow the on-screen prompts to restore your iDevice.

Part 4: List of iPhones Compatible With iOS 26

iOS 26 supports iPhones with an A13 chip or newer. This includes:

• iPhone 11 series.

• iPhone 12, 13, 14, 15, and 16  series.

• Upcoming iPhone 17 version.

• Supports the iPhone SE (2nd and 3rd gen). 

Note: Older models like the iPhone X/XRS, XS Max, and XR won’t be able to run iOS 26.

Part 5: Conclusion

iOS 26 on iPhone X/XR doesn’t function at all due to incompatibility, and forcing the update can cause issues like boot failure, charging problems, or your phone becoming unresponsive. But if you’ve already installed iOS 26 somehow, the best fix is to downgrade to a stable version like iOS 18. 

While iTunes or Finder can also help restore to an older iOS, they’re complicated to use and may erase your data. A safer, easier option is Tenorshare ReiBoot, as it manages the downgrade process in a few clicks and can also fix many iOS problems without data loss.