Apple is ready with the iOS 26 latest update, which marks one of the biggest overhauls in iPhone software history. Packed with a refreshed design, AI-powered features, and wider system improvements, this update is set to transform how users interact with their iPhones. Here’s everything you need to know.
When is iOS 26 Releasing?
Apple announced iOS 26 at WWDC 2025 on June 9. Following tradition, the update will officially launch alongside the iPhone 17 series in September 2025. The stable rollout for all eligible devices is expected around mid-September, just days after the iPhone 17 launch event.
Guide to Downloading and Installing the iOS 26 Beta
If you want early access to iOS 26, you can try the beta version:
- Register via Apple’s Beta Software Program site with your Apple ID credentials.
- Enroll your iPhone by downloading the beta profile.
- Restart your device to apply changes.
- Head to Settings → General → Software Update and download the iOS 26 beta.
Tip: Always back up your iPhone before installing a beta, as it may contain bugs and unfinished features.
iPhones Compatible with iOS 26:
Apple has officially announced that iOS 26 will be compatible with devices powered by the A13 Bionic chip and later models. That means the update will be available on:
- iPhone 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max
- iPhone SE (2nd and 3rd generation)
- iPhone 12 series
- iPhone 13 series
- iPhone 14 series
- iPhone 15 series
- iPhone 16 and 16e lineup
iPhones Supporting Apple Intelligence Features in iOS 26:
Not all supported iPhones will get Apple’s new AI-powered Apple Intelligence features. These advanced tools require more powerful hardware.
Apple Intelligence is available only on:
- iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max
- iPhone 16 series (including iPhone 16e, 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, and 16 Pro Max)
Devices like the iPhone 11 to iPhone 15 (non-Pro models) will receive iOS 26 but without Apple Intelligence integration.
iOS 26 Features
The iOS 26 latest update introduces a fresh design and smarter tools across apps:
- Liquid Glass Design: Icons, widgets, and system controls now feature a refreshed translucent design.
- Phone App Upgrades: Call Screening, Hold Assist, and a redesigned interface.
- Apple Intelligence Tools (on supported devices):
- Smart text summarization and rewriting
- Visual search inside photos and screenshots
- AI-powered reminders and task suggestions
- Genmoji and AI-created images in Messages
- App Enhancements:
- Photos app gets a redesigned gallery and 3D views
- Safari with edge-to-edge browsing
- Apple Music adds translated lyrics and AutoMix playlists
- Wallet introduces Tap to Cash and better order tracking
- Maps now includes “Visited Places” history
- Utilities & Performance: Game Mode for smoother gameplay, Adaptive Power saving, Recovery Assistant, and accessibility features like eye-tracking and vocal shortcuts.
Which iPhones Will Get iOS 26?
The iOS 26 update will roll out to every iPhone beginning with the iPhone 11 and newer models. However, older devices like the iPhone XR, iPhone XS, and iPhone XS Max are not eligible for this update because they use the A12 Bionic chip, which falls short of Apple’s requirements.
Is iOS 26 Available for iPhone XR?
Unfortunately, iOS 26 will not support the iPhone XR. Apple has officially dropped support for this model due to hardware limitations. The XR will remain on its current software version without access to iOS 26 features.
Quick Recap Table
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Release Date | September 2025 (with iPhone 17 launch) |
| Beta Availability | Developer Beta (June 2025), Public Beta (July 2025) |
| Compatible Devices | iPhone 11 and newer, iPhone SE (2nd & 3rd gen) |
| Apple Intelligence Support | iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max, along with the iPhone 16 lineup |
| Major Features | Liquid Glass UI, Phone app upgrades, AI tools, Tap to Cash, Game Mode |
| Not Supported | iPhone XR, XS, XS Max |
