Your iPhone Is About to Change: iOS 26 Release Date and Key Features
Apple to release iOS 26 after iPhone 17 launch. Liquid Glass design, Siri AI, Wallet Tap, and iPhone Mirroring features available worldwide.
image for illustrative purpose
Apple is preparing to release its next major iPhone software update, iOS 26, shortly after the scheduled launch of the iPhone 17 series on September 9. First announced at the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) in June, iOS 26 brings system-wide intelligence, redesigned apps, and an updated interface to supported devices.
Apple typically publishes new iOS updates within days of new iPhone availability. Following this pattern, iOS 26 is projected to be accessible worldwide between September 15 and 16. Users can start downloading the update at 10 a.m. PT (10:30 p.m. IST), with distribution occurring gradually across global devices.
The iOS 26 update will cover multiple iPhone generations, beginning with the iPhone 12 series. Supported models include:
* iPhone 16e, 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, 16 Pro Max
* iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max
* iPhone 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max
* iPhone 13, 13 mini, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max
* iPhone 12, 12 mini, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max
* iPhone 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max
* iPhone SE (2nd generation and later)
Not all devices will support the advanced AI features introduced in iOS 26. Apple Intelligence functions, which rely on the latest processor technology, will only be available on:
* iPhone 16e, 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, 16 Pro Max
* iPhone 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max
iOS 26 introduces the new Liquid Glass design, delivering a semi-transparent, fluid interface across system apps. Siri has been upgraded to understand natural language more effectively, offering contextual awareness and improved on-screen interactions.
The Photos app receives a redesign for easier navigation and organization, while Messages gains scheduled messages, emoji and sticker tapbacks, and enhancements to satellite messaging.
A new Passwords app enables users to manage credentials, Wi-Fi logins, and passkeys in one location. iPhone Mirroring allows seamless control of iPhones from Macs, and Wallet adds Tap to Cash functionality for instant transfers. Other updates include refined Mail sorting, improved Journal features, Game Mode for better performance, and accessibility options such as eye tracking, voice shortcuts, and music haptics.
iOS 26 is expected to reach millions of users globally within hours of its release, continuing Apple’s focus on integrating advanced AI and convenience features across iPhones.
