iOS 26: Release Date, Features & Device Compatibility
Apple’s iPhone 17 event is scheduled for September 9, 2025. If past timing holds, iOS 26 should be released about one week later (around Sept 16, 2025).
Quick highlights
- Liquid Glass — refreshed UI with translucent, floating elements and updated app icons.
- Phone app redesign — unified contacts, recent calls and voicemail on one screen plus new Hold Assist.
- Live Translate — real-time translation for calls and messages; reports say AirPods may support live translation.
- Messages polls — create quick polls in group chats.
- Betas — public beta 5 and developer beta 8 are in testing as of mid‑2025; public beta is more stable but still carries risk.
Device compatibility
Apple appears to be dropping support for several 2018 iPhones. The models reported as not compatible with iOS 26 are:
- iPhone XR
- iPhone XS
- iPhone XS Max
Devices confirmed or expected to be compatible include iPhones from 2019 onward (example list): iPhone SE (2nd gen+) and iPhone 11 through iPhone 16e/16 Pro Max. iPads supported include iPad Pro (M4), iPad Pro 12.9″ (3rd gen+), iPad Pro 11″ (1st gen+), iPad Air (3rd gen+), iPad (8th gen+), and iPad mini (5th gen+).
If you keep an older device
Older iPhones that don’t receive iOS 26 will miss security updates and new features; some apps may eventually require newer iOS versions.
Learn more / shopping
Looking for a new iPhone? Search results for “iPhone 16”: Buy or compare iPhone 16 models on Amazon (affiliate tag included).
Notes: This summary is based on public beta reports and industry coverage as of mid‑2025. Always backup before installing beta software.