Apple is gearing up to release iOS 26, its latest iPhone software update, following the launch of the iPhone 17 series on September 9. First unveiled at the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) in June, iOS 26 introduces a refreshed design, new apps, and smarter system-wide intelligence.
iOS 26 release date and time
Apple typically rolls out its major iOS update within a week after new iPhones go on sale. Based on past trends, iOS 26 is expected to be released globally around September 15–16. The update will be available to download starting 10 a.m. PT (10:30 p.m. IST), reaching millions of iPhone users in phases over the following hours.
iOS 26 supported iPhones
iOS 26 will be available for a wide range of devices, starting from the iPhone 12 series onward. The full list includes:
• iPhone 16e, iPhone 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, and 16 Pro Max
• iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, and 15 Pro Max
• iPhone 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, and 14 Pro Max
• iPhone 13, 13 mini, 13 Pro, and 13 Pro Max
• iPhone 12, 12 mini, 12 Pro, and 12 Pro Max
• iPhone 11, 11 Pro, and 11 Pro Max
• iPhone SE (2nd generation and newer)
iPhones that support Apple Intelligence
While iOS 26 will be available widely, not every iPhone will get Apple Intelligence features. These AI-powered capabilities require the latest processors, which means only the following devices will support them:
• iPhone 16e
• iPhone 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, and 16 Pro Max
• iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max
iOS 26 features
The iOS 26 update introduces a Liquid Glass design language, giving the interface a more fluid and translucent look. Siri is receiving a major upgrade with better natural language understanding, on-screen awareness, and deeper context recognition. The Photos app has been redesigned for easier browsing and organizing, while Messages gains emoji and sticker tapbacks, scheduled messages, and improved satellite messaging.
A new Passwords app has been added for managing credentials, Wi-Fi logins, and passkeys. iPhone Mirroring allows users to control their iPhone directly from a Mac, and Wallet now supports Tap to Cash for quick money transfers. The update also includes Mail sorting, Journal improvements, and Game Mode for optimized performance. Accessibility features such as eye tracking, vocal shortcuts, and music haptics round out the release.
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