Apple announced the iOS 26 earlier this year in June. As the iPhone 17 launch nears, the software update is also rumoured to roll out widely, bringing new features and improvements to millions of devices. Announced at the annual World Wide Developer’s Conference (WWDC), the iOS 26 brings all new Liquid glass design – a sleek, translucent design language that gives the iPhone a more dynamic and fluid feel. The update brings a completely redesigned Photos app that makes it easier to find, relive, and organize memories. iOS 26 also introduces a smarter Siri with more natural language understanding and on-screen awareness, a new Passwords app, improved tapback reactions in Messages, and the ability to mirror an iPhone directly to a Mac. Here’s everything to know about eligible devices, release date, features and more about iOS 26.
iOS 26 release date
Historically, Apple rolls out the latest software update a week after the launch of new iPhones. If the tradition continues, iOS 26 may roll out on or around September 15-16 this year as the iPhone 17 series launch is scheduled for September 9.
iOS 26 Public Beta Is Here: Apple’s Biggest Redesign Since iOS 7
iOS 26 eligible devices
Here’s the full list of iPhones that will support iOS 26:iPhone 16eiPhone 16 and 16 PlusiPhone 16 Pro and 16 Pro MaxiPhone 15 and 15 PlusiPhone 15 Pro and 15 Pro MaxiPhone 14 and 14 PlusiPhone 14 Pro and 14 Pro MaxiPhone 13 and 13 miniiPhone 13 Pro and 13 Pro MaxiPhone 12 and 12 miniiPhone 12 Pro and 12 Pro MaxiPhone 11iPhone 11 Pro and 11 Pro MaxiPhone SE (2nd gen and newer)Readers must note that Apple Intelligence features detailed require supported devices, which include all iPhone 16 models, iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max.
Features in iOS 26
Liquid Glass interface: New translucent and fluid design elements that give iOS a more immersive, polished look.Smarter Siri: Improved language understanding, context awareness, and on-screen integration.New call features: Live voicemail, call screening, and updated call controls.Redesigned Photos app: Streamlined layout, customizable collections, carousel highlights, and improved search.New Passwords app: Organize passwords, passkeys, Wi-Fi logins, and shared credentials in one place.Messages upgrades: Emoji and sticker tapbacks, text effects, scheduled messages, and expanded satellite messaging.iPhone Mirroring on Mac: Use and control your iPhone from your Mac with full audio and interaction support.Tap to Cash in Wallet: Instantly transfer money by holding two iPhones together.Mail app improvements: Automatically sorts emails into Primary, Transactions, Updates, and Promotions.Journal updates: New insights dashboard, entry search, and writing goals.Game Mode: Optimizes gaming with reduced latency and better performance for accessories.Accessibility features: Eye tracking, vocal shortcuts, music haptics, and motion cues to reduce discomfort.