at its WWDC event today, skipping iOS 18 and aligning the new name with the year of its mainstream rollout. The final version of iOS 26 is likely to launch globally on September 16, 2025, around a week after the debut of the iPhone 17 series.Apple has announced a shift in how it names its iOS versions. Going forward, the version number will reflect the upcoming calendar year—similar to how automobile companies label their models. As a result, this year’s release is called . This change also applies to macOS, iPadOS, and watchOS. iOS 26 is expected to introduce a glass-like user interface with softer icons, rounded edges, and refreshed system apps. This is the first significant redesign since iOS 7.
Following its usual update cycle, Apple is expected to release the final version of iOS 26 on September 16, 2025. This typically takes place the Tuesday after its annual iPhone launch event.
The latest iOS release is likely to be rolled out in India along with global release. However, the company has not made any official announcement regarding the same.
iOS 26 Developer Beta 1 will be available immediately after today’s keynote. Public Beta 1 is expected on July 15, 2025. Users can join by following these steps:
Back up the deviceNavigate to Settings > General > Software Update > Beta UpdatesSelect Developer or Public Beta and install the updateiOS 26 is expected to support all iPhones currently running iOS 18. However, support for models using the A12 Bionic chip, such as iPhone XS, XS Max, and XR, may be discontinued. The following models are likely to receive the update:
iPhone 17, 16, 15, 14, 13, 12, and 11 series
iPhone SE (2nd generation and later)
Apple plans to strengthen its AI features in iOS 26. Updates are expected to improve Writing Tools, Genmoji, and Image Playground. A major upgrade to Siri is still under development. Apple is reportedly in talks with Google to integrate Gemini AI into Siri.Apple may use on-device AI to personalise battery performance based on a user’s daily habits. This feature could be especially useful for thinner models like the iPhone 17 Air.
Apple officially announced iOS 26 during its Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) 2025. The new OS introduces a redesigned interface, new AI-powered tools, and a refined user experience.
Apple introduced a new design language called “Liquid Glass” in iOS 26. This redesign affects the system menus, widgets, notifications, and lock screen, giving them more depth and motion while retaining the core home screen layout. Native apps like Photos and Camera now have updated layouts focused on ease of use and consistency.Released immediately after the announcement at WWDC 2025.
Expected in July 2025.
Expected in September 2025, coinciding with the launch of the iPhone 17 series.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.
While many iPhones will be able to install iOS 26, not all will support Apple Intelligence features, such as:According to Apple, these AI features require at least the A17 Pro chip. Full Apple Intelligence access will be limited to:
Other supported devices will only receive the visual and system-wide updates, not the new AI-powered tools.
