Apple is all set to roll out its next major software upgrade — iOS 26. The update brings a fresh design, smarter AI features, improved security, and better battery performance. If you are an iPhone user, here’s everything you need to know about the iOS 26 release date, compatible devices, features, and more.
iOS 26 Expected Release Date
Apple announced iOS 26 at WWDC 2025 in June. Following tradition, the stable version is expected to launch shortly after the iPhone 17 series launch event on September 9, 2025. Reports suggest the public rollout will begin around September 16, 2025, for supported iPhones worldwide.
List of iPhones Supported by iOS 26
Apple has confirmed that iOS 26 will be available on iPhones powered by the A13 Bionic chip and newer. This means models like iPhone XR, iPhone XS, and XS Max (with A12 chip) will no longer receive updates.
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Here is the full list of compatible devices
- iPhone 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Maxi
- Phone SE (2nd & 3rd Gen)
- iPhone 12 series
- iPhone 13 series
- iPhone 14 series
- iPhone 15 series (including Pro and Pro Max)
- iPhone 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, 16 Pro Max, and 16e
Apple Intelligence Features like Genmoji, Image Playground, and advanced AI tools will only be available on iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, and iPhone 16 series.
iOS 26 Top Features
1. New “Liquid Glass” Design
iOS 26 introduces a completely refreshed Liquid Glass interface, inspired by visionOS. Expect translucent icons, dynamic widgets, and a futuristic lock screen experience.
2. Apple Intelligence (AI) Enhancements
- Smarter Siri with contextual awareness.
- Visual Intelligence to extract details from photos and screenshots.
- Genmoji for personalized emojis.
- Intelligent Shortcuts to automate tasks seamlessly.
3. Phone & Messages Upgrades
- Call Screening to block spam calls.
- Hold Assist to manage waiting time during calls.
- Messages app now supports polls, custom themes, and interactive backgrounds.
4. Apple Games App
A new Apple Games app replaces Game Center, making it easier to track achievements, find friends, and explore new titles.
5. CarPlay, Maps, and Music Improvements
- CarPlay gains Live Activities and reactions.
- Apple Music introduces lyric translation.
- Maps now recommend “Visited Places” for easier navigation.
6. Privacy and Security Boost
- USB accessory permission prompts.
- Quantum-secure TLS encryption enabled by default.
- Centralized blocked contacts list across apps.
7. Better Battery Performance
iOS 26 introduces Adaptive Power Mode, smarter charging predictions, and enhanced battery health monitoring.
Why iOS 26 Matters
The iOS 26 update is not just about visual changes — it’s a step forward in AI integration, security, and user experience. With its new design language, smarter Siri, and enhanced privacy controls, Apple is clearly preparing the iPhone ecosystem for the future.
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FAQs on iOS 26
1. When will iOS 26 be released?
iOS 26 is expected to roll out around September 16, 2025, shortly after the iPhone 17 launch event on September 9.
2. Which iPhones will get iOS 26?
iOS 26 supports iPhones with the A13 Bionic chip and newer, starting from the iPhone 11 series up to the latest iPhone 16 lineup. Older devices like iPhone XR, XS, and XS Max will not receive the update.
3. What are the new features in iOS 26?
Some highlights include the new Liquid Glass UI, Apple Intelligence AI tools, smarter Siri, Call Screening & Hold Assist, an all-new Apple Games app, improved CarPlay, better privacy features, and Adaptive Power Mode for longer battery life.
4. Will all iPhones get Apple Intelligence features?
No. Advanced Apple Intelligence features like Genmoji, Image Playground, and intelligent Siri are exclusive to iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, and iPhone 16 series.
5. How can I download iOS 26?
Once Apple releases it publicly, go to Settings > General > Software Update on your iPhone and tap Download and Install. Ensure your device is charged and connected to Wi-Fi.
Conclusion
The iOS 26 release will bring one of the biggest design and intelligence upgrades ever to the iPhone. Set to arrive in September 2025, it will be available for iPhone 11 and newer models. While older devices will miss out, users with the latest iPhones can experience Apple Intelligence, Liquid Glass UI, advanced privacy tools, and adaptive battery features.