iOS 26 Update: Release Date, Eligible Devices, Features, and How to Download
Apple iOS 26 update rolls out on September 15, 2025. Check eligible iPhones, new features, and step-by-step guide on how to download and install iOS 26.
iOS 26 update releases on September 15, 2025 with a new Liquid-Glass theme, calling upgrades, and app improvements for eligible iPhones.
Among its features, Apple has confirmed the iOS 26 update officially. The update will be made available to all on September 15, 2025, with the new design, calling features, and app enhancements. Everything about the release date, supported devices, installation procedure for iOS 26, and other details.
Release Date for iOS 26
Apple announced that the update would be released on September 15, 2025, beginning at 12:00 AM IST, for all supported devices. A Release Candidate build has been made available to the public beta testers; the RC version is the last before the stable update.
iOS 26 will be preinstalled on all new iPhone 17 series models; in other words: iPhone 17, iPhone Air, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max.
Full Main List of iOS 26 Eligible Devices
The following iPhones will receive the iOS 26 upgrade:
- iPhone 17 Series: iPhone 17, iPhone Air, iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone 17 Pro Max
- iPhone 16 Series: iPhone 16, 16 Plus, 16e, 16 Pro, 16 Pro Max
- iPhone 15 Series: iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max
- iPhone 14 Series: iPhone 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max
- iPhone 13 Series: iPhone 13, 13 Mini, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max
- iPhone 12 Series: iPhone 12, 12 Mini, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max
- iPhone 11 Series: iPhone 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max
- iPhone SE (2nd generation)
⚠️ Note: The latest Apple Intelligence will only be offered for iPhone 15 Pro and the models above in the future.
Features of iOS 26
As iOS 26 comes in, a Liquid-Glass UI theme takes center stage in transforming the makeover of an operating system. Here are some feature highlights:
Calling Upgrades:
- Live voicemail
- Updated incoming call controls
- Call screening to protect privacy
App Upgrades:
- Smarter searching and categorizing in Photos
- Password app enhanced for security management
- Messages improved with richer capabilities
- In a nutshell, will make user experience on iPhones seamless, secure, and up to date.
How to Download and Install iOS 26
After the update is released, here are preparations/following steps to update to iOS 26:
- Open Settings on your iPhone.
- Go to General > Software Update.
- When iOS 26 is presented, tap on Download and Install.
- Once the setup finishes, your device will restart.
- Your iPhone is now updated to iOS 26 with the new features and design.
