Apple’s next major iPhone update — iOS 26 — is officially rolling out to the public this September. This update brings a sweeping visual refresh and new Apple Intelligence features designed to make your iPhone feel smarter and more polished. If you’re wondering when exactly iOS 26 will land, which iPhones will get it, and how to upgrade safely — read on.
iOS 26 release date — when can you download it?
Apple has scheduled the public release of iOS 26 for Monday, September 15, 2025. The software was first previewed at WWDC and then finalized over the summer through beta testing before being released to all compatible iPhones. If you keep your iPhone updated automatically you’ll likely see the software appear in Settings → General → Software Update when it’s available for your device.
Key point: Apple publicly announced iOS 26 at WWDC 2025 and then set the general availability date for mid-September as part of its usual yearly cadence.
What’s new in iOS 26? (Top highlights)
iOS 26 is more than just bug fixes — it’s a sizeable update that combines a bold design refresh with upgraded on-device intelligence. Some of the most notable additions:
- “Liquid Glass” design language — a translucent, modern UI refresh across system elements, widgets, and app icon treatments.
- Apple Intelligence features — deeper on-device intelligence that helps with proactive tasks, contextual suggestions, and richer system-level assistance.
- Messages enhancements — polls and chat backgrounds for richer group interactions, plus easier translation features.
- Live Translation expansion — built-in translation in Messages, FaceTime, and Phone for smoother cross-language conversations.
- CarPlay, Maps, Music, Wallet updates — Apple has polished first-party apps with new gestures and contextual tools.
These are the headline features — deeper changes under the hood aim to improve performance and battery efficiency on supported devices as well.
Which iPhones are compatible?
Apple’s compatibility list for iOS 26 focuses on relatively recent devices. Most reports and Apple's documentation indicate iOS 26 supports iPhone 11 and newer models. If your device runs on an A13 chip or later, you should expect the update to be available. Always check Settings → General → Software Update to confirm availability for your specific model.
Beta & developer releases — how we got here
iOS 26 first showed up as a developer and public beta after WWDC 2025 (June). Apple published developer release notes and RC builds to help developers and testers prepare their apps. If you participated in the public beta, you may have already seen many of the new features and design tweaks. Developers can consult Apple’s official release notes for details and any migration changes.
How to prepare for iOS 26 — 7 simple steps
- Back up your iPhone — use iCloud or a local backup via Finder/iTunes.
- Free up space — major updates can require gigabytes of temporary space.
- Charge your phone or plug it in during the update.
- Use a stable Wi-Fi connection to avoid interrupted downloads.
- Update apps first — many app updates arrive quickly after a major iOS release.
- Read early reports — wait 24–48 hours if you rely on your phone for work and want to avoid any day-one hiccups. (Many reviewers recommend waiting a day or two.)
- Know how to downgrade — Apple only signs older versions for a short time after a major release, so downgrading may be limited; consult Apple’s developer documentation if you plan to revert.
How to install iOS 26
When the update appears:
- Open Settings → General → Software Update.
- Tap Download and Install.
- Follow prompts and keep the device connected to power.
- Alternatively, you can update via a Mac with Finder or iTunes (on Windows) if you prefer a wired update.
Should you update on day one?
If you like having the latest features immediately and you’re comfortable troubleshooting minor issues, go ahead. If your iPhone is critical for work or you depend on specific third-party apps, waiting 48–72 hours for early bug reports and app updates is a cautious approach. Many tech outlets recommend waiting a short while for any day-one patches.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q1: When is the official iOS 26 release date?
A: iOS 26 is scheduled for public release on September 15, 2025.
Q2: Which iPhones support iOS 26?
A: iOS 26 is supported on most devices from iPhone 11 and newer. Check Settings to confirm for your exact model.
Q3: Will iOS 26 slow down older iPhones?
A: Apple generally optimizes new releases for supported hardware, but performance varies by device and usage. Back up and wait for user reports if concerned.
Q4: Can I downgrade from iOS 26 to iOS 25?
A: Apple signs older firmware for a short period. Downgrades are sometimes possible during that window; consult Apple’s release/downgrade notes for exact steps.
Q5: Is iOS 26 a free update?
A: Yes — as with previous iOS releases, iOS 26 is a free software update for compatible iPhones.
Q6: How big is the iOS 26 download?
A: The download size varies by device and current iOS version. Major updates can require several GB of space temporarily. Free up space before installing.
iOS 26 is one of Apple’s more ambitious annual updates, combining a fresh Liquid Glass visual language with smarter Apple Intelligence features and useful app upgrades. The public release is September 15, 2025, and most iPhone 11 and newer models will be supported. Back up your device, make room, and install when you’re ready — or wait a day or two if you want to see early user reports first. For detailed developer notes and migration guidance, consult Apple’s official documentation.