Apple is set to release iOS 26 on September 15–16, 2025, right after the “Awe-Dropping” event on September 9. First unveiled at WWDC 2025 (June 9), this update is shaping up to be one of the most exciting iPhone software upgrades in years.
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iOS 26 Features: What’s New
The highlight of iOS 26 is the Liquid Glass interface, a design overhaul inspired by visionOS. With translucent effects, layered layouts, and immersive 3D-like visuals, your Lock Screen and Home Screen will feel more futuristic than ever.
Other standout iOS 26 features include:
- Customizable app icons and widgets
- Redesigned Camera, Photos, and Safari apps
- Apple Intelligence with ChatGPT-like Siri upgrades
- Live Translation in Messages and FaceTime
- Visual Intelligence for on-screen interactions
- Call Screening and spam filtering for better privacy
- Voicemail summaries and Hold Assist
- iMessage polls and group Apple Cash payments
iOS 26 Eligible Devices
iOS 26 will be compatible with:
- iPhone 11 and newer models
Older iPhones like the iPhone XS, XS Max, and XR won’t support iOS 26. Instead, they will receive iOS 18.7, which focuses on stability and security updates.
Alongside iOS 26, Apple will also release iPadOS 26, macOS Tahoe, watchOS 26, and tvOS 26.
How to Install iOS 26
To prepare for the update:
- Back up your iPhone using iCloud or a computer.
- Free up at least 20GB of storage space.
- Connect to a stable Wi-Fi network.
- On launch day, go to Settings > General > Software Update and download iOS 26.
FAQs About iOS 26
1. When will iOS 26 be released?
iOS 26 will be available starting September 15–16, 2025, after Apple’s “Awe-Dropping” event on September 9.
2. Which iPhones support iOS 26?
iOS 26 is compatible with iPhone 11 and newer models. The iPhone XS, XS Max, and XR are not eligible.
3. How do I download iOS 26?
Go to Settings > General > Software Update on your iPhone, then tap Download and Install once the update is available.
4. What are the best iOS 26 features?
The standout features include the Liquid Glass interface, smarter Siri with Apple Intelligence, Live Translation, spam filtering, voicemail summaries, and iMessage polls.
5. Will older iPhones get any update?
Yes. Devices not eligible for iOS 26, such as the iPhone XS series and XR, will receive iOS 18.7 with performance and security improvements.
Final Thoughts
With its futuristic design, AI-powered Siri, and smarter connectivity tools, iOS 26 is more than just a software update—it’s a reimagined iPhone experience.
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