iOS 26 & iPhone 17: What to Expect — iOS 26 Public Beta Now Available
Apple will unveil the iPhone 17 on Sept 9. iOS 26 — branded with the new “Liquid Glass” translucent design — is expected to arrive about a week later. The Apple event page has livestream details.
Quick highlights
- Liquid Glass design across iPhone, iPad and Mac (new translucent UI and floating buttons)
- Live Translation in Phone, FaceTime and Messages
- Hold Assist — get notified when an agent answers while you’re on hold
- Visual Intelligence — search what’s in your screenshots/photos
- Polls in group chats and improved message filtering for unknown senders
- Photos tabs (Library/Collections) return
- New lock screen options, updated Camera and passcode animations
- AirPods: improved audio recording, camera remote controls and possible live translation/heart-rate features
Try the public beta
The iOS 26 public beta is available now via Apple’s Beta Software Program. To install: Settings > General > Software Update > iOS 26 Public Beta. Do not install on your primary device unless you accept beta risks.
AirPods shopping
Looking for AirPods Pro? Search on Amazon: AirPods Pro on Amazon (affiliate).
Compatibility
Most iPhones from 2019 onward are eligible (iPhone 11 and newer, iPhone SE 2nd gen+, and iPhone 12–16 series). Older XR/XS models may be excluded.
When will the final iOS 26 release arrive?
Traditionally Apple releases the final iOS shortly after the fall iPhone event — expect a public rollout in September, possibly around Sept 16.
Summary generated from public reports and Apple’s official pages. No Engadget RSS links included.