Apple’s iOS updates are always highly anticipated, and 2025 is no exception. Apple takes innovation a step further with iOS 26, combining advanced AI features, refined design elements, and enhanced performance for a seamless experience. Whether you’re waiting to see if your iPhone is eligible for the update or curious about Apple Intelligence and the Liquid Glass design, we’ve got you covered.
iOS 26 release date and time
Apple traditionally unveils new iOS versions during its WWDC event in June. iOS 26 will likely follow this pattern, with the developer beta rolling out immediately after the keynote. The public beta should arrive in July, while the final release is expected around mid-September 2025, just days before the new iPhone lineup launches.
- Expected announcement: June 2025 at WWDC
- Public release: September 2025
- Time of rollout: Around 10 AM PST (6 PM BST / 10:30 PM IST)
Apple usually staggers the release across regions, but most users globally get access within a few hours.
iOS 26 supported iPhones
Apple has been gradually phasing out older iPhones, and iOS 26 continues this trend.
List of supported iPhones:
- iPhone 17 Pro, 17, 17 Plus
- iPhone 16 Pro, 16, 16 Plus
- iPhone 15 Pro, 15, 15 Plus
- iPhone 14 Pro, 14, 14 Plus
- iPhone 13 series
- iPhone SE (3rd Gen)
Dropped models: iPhone 12 and earlier are no longer eligible.
iPhones that support Apple Intelligence
Not all iPhones running iOS 26 will get the Apple Intelligence experience. This feature demands powerful neural engines and A17 Pro or later chips.
Full Apple Intelligence support:
- iPhone 16 Pro, iPhone 16 Pro Max
- iPhone 17 series and beyond
Other supported devices will still run iOS 26 but without advanced AI features.
What iOS version is 2025?
If you’re wondering, “What iOS version is 2025?” — the answer is iOS 26. Following Apple’s yearly cycle:
- 2023 → iOS 17
- 2024 → iOS 18
- 2025 → iOS 26
The jump to iOS 26 reflects Apple’s shift toward aligning iOS with its AI roadmap and upcoming hardware.
iOS 26 features
iOS 26 comes loaded with enhancements designed to make your iPhone smarter, more secure, and uniquely tailored to you.
Performance and speed improvements
Apps launch faster, animations feel smoother, and multitasking is more fluid.
Privacy and security updates
iOS 26 builds on Apple’s reputation by giving users more control over tracking, permissions, and on-device processing.
New personalization tools
Customizable lock screens, smart widgets, and dynamic themes give users more freedom.
Control Center redesign
Control Center has been rebuilt with a Liquid Glass-inspired design, making it look more modern and transparent.
Advanced Siri with Apple Intelligence
Siri now uses Apple Intelligence, becoming context-aware, conversational, and proactive.
Apple Intelligence explained
Apple Intelligence is Apple’s answer to generative AI.
- Smart summaries for emails and notifications
- On-device text generation for messages and notes
- Context-aware Siri that remembers your previous queries
- Privacy-focused AI running mostly on-device
It’s like having a digital assistant that not only listens but also understands you better.
What is Liquid Glass design?
In iOS 26, Apple introduces its latest design philosophy called Liquid Glass.
- Visuals: More translucent, fluid, and adaptive elements
- Animations: Smooth, glass-like transitions
- Comparison: It feels like a futuristic evolution of the flat design introduced in iOS 7
This design shift makes your iPhone look sleeker and more immersive than ever.
iOS 26 for productivity
Apple has made big moves in productivity:
- Notes app now supports AI-driven summaries
- Reminders can auto-organize based on urgency
- Multitasking tools make switching between apps faster
iOS 26 for communication
iMessage upgrades
- AI-generated smart replies
- Richer stickers and animations
- Improved cross-device syncing
FaceTime improvements
- AI-based noise cancellation
- Shared virtual backgrounds powered by Apple Intelligence
iOS 26 and gaming
Gamers will love Game Mode, which:
- Reduces latency
- Prioritizes GPU/CPU performance
- Enhances graphics with Metal 4 optimizations
Battery and performance management
Apple has optimized battery life by:
- Smarter background app control
- Adaptive charging that learns your routine
- AI-driven energy usage prediction
Privacy and security enhancements
- Safari upgrades for private browsing
- App permissions dashboard for better control
- On-device AI filtering for safer AI interactions
iOS 26 update process
To upgrade smoothly:
- Back up your iPhone using iCloud or iTunes
- Make sure your battery is at least 50% charged, or keep your device connected to power.
- Go to Settings > General > Software Update
- Tap Download and Install
Conclusion
iOS 26 goes beyond a regular update — it marks Apple’s entry into the AI-powered era of smartphones. With Apple Intelligence, the futuristic Liquid Glass design, and deeper personalization, iOS 26 sets a new standard for what iPhones can do. While not all devices will get the full AI package, even older iPhones benefit from smoother performance and fresh design touches.
