Summary: iOS 26 iPhones Release Date

Release Date and Compatible Devices for iOS 26: Apple is scheduled to introduce iOS 26 at the Worldwide Developers Conference shortly. Improved AI capabilities and a revamped interface are two benefits of this new operating system. Alongside the iPhone 17 series, the final version is anticipated to launch on September 16, 2025. A ‘Liquid Glass’ design and enhanced system apps are what users may expect. Older iPhone models might not be able to implement all AI features, nevertheless.

At its WWDC keynote today, Apple is anticipated to reveal iOS 26, eschewing iOS 18 and tying the new moniker to the year of its general release.  About a week after the iPhone 17 series’ release, on September 16, 2025, the final version of iOS 26 is anticipated to go live worldwide.

Why iOS 26 and not iOS 19?

Apple has declared that it will be renaming its iOS versions.  From now on, the version number will correspond to the next year—just like automakers do with their models.  Consequently, iOS 26 is the release name for this year.  WatchOS, iPadOS, and macOS are likewise affected by this modification.  A glass-like UI with softer icons, softened borders, and updated system apps is anticipated in iOS 26.  Since iOS 7, this is the first major overhaul.

iOS 26 iPhones’ Release Date

On September 16, 2025, Apple is anticipated to release the final version of iOS 26 after its regular upgrade cycle. Usually, this happens on the Tuesday after the company’s yearly iPhone launch.

iOS 26 iPhone: iOS 26 Release Date in India

Along with its worldwide release, the most recent iOS version is probably going to be made available in India. The business hasn’t, however, made any formal announcements about it.

iOS 26 Developer Beta 1 Availability and How to Activate

Following today’s keynote, iOS 26 Developer Beta 1 will be made available right away. The first public beta is anticipated on July 15, 2025. Users can sign up by doing the following:

Make a backup of the gadget.

Navigate to Settings > General > Software Update > Beta Updates

Choose Public Beta or Developer and install the update.

iOS 26 Supported iPhone models

All iPhones running iOS 18 are anticipated to be supported by iOS 26. However, the iPhone XS, XS Max, and XR models that use the A12 Bionic technology might no longer be supported. The update is probably going to be applied to the following models:

iPhone 17, 16, 15, 14, 13, 12, and 11 series

iPhone SE (2nd generation and later)

iOS 26 Features:  Pay attention to Apple Intelligence

With iOS 26, Apple intends to improve its AI capabilities. It is anticipated that updates would enhance Image Playground, Genmoji, and Writing Tools. A significant update for Siri is still in the works. According to reports, Apple and Google are negotiating the integration of Gemini AI into Siri.

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iOS 26 AI-based battery management

Based on a user’s daily routine, Apple may employ on-device AI to customize battery performance. Thinner devices, such as the iPhone 17 Air, may benefit most from this functionality.

At its 2025 Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC), Apple made the formal announcement of iOS 26. The new operating system offers an improved user experience, additional AI-powered features, and a revamped interface.

“Liquid Glass” is a new feature in iOS 26 iPhones.

With iOS 26, Apple unveiled “Liquid Glass,” a new design language. While keeping the basic home screen layout, this makeover adds depth and movement to the system menus, widgets, alerts, and lock screen. Updated design for native apps like Photos and Camera now prioritize consistency and usability.

iOS 26 roll out timeline

Developer Beta: Made available right away following the WWDC 2025 announcement.

Public Beta: Expected in July 2025.

Stable Release: Anticipated in September 2025, when the iPhone 17 series is on sale.

ios 26 iPhones Devices List: iPhones that support iOS 26

iOS 26 will require devices with an A13 Bionic chip or newer. The eligible models include:

• iPhone 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max
• iPhone SE (2nd generation and later)
• iPhone 12 series (12, 12 mini, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max)
• iPhone 13 series (13, 13 mini, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max)
• iPhone 14 series (14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max)
• iPhone 15 series (15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max)
• iPhone 16 series, including iPhone 16e
• Older models like iPhone XR, XS, and XS Max will not support iOS 26. However, they will continue to receive security updates on iOS 18 for a limited period.

Apple Intelligence: Features are only available on more recent iPhone models.

Although iOS 26 can be installed on a large number of iPhones, not all of them will support Apple Intelligence capabilities like:

• Image generation
• Content summarisation
• Advanced personal assistant tools

Apple claims that the A17 Pro chip is necessary for certain AI functions. Access to Apple Intelligence will be restricted to:

Only the system-wide and visual updates—not the new AI-powered tools—will be sent to other compatible devices.