iOS 26: Release Date, Compatibility & What’s New

Apple is set to unveil new iPhones on Sept 9; iOS 26 is expected to roll out in mid‑September (likely about a week after the event). The update brings a major visual refresh called “Liquid Glass,” new features like Live Translate, a redesigned Phone app, polls in Messages, updated lock screen options and more.

Key dates

• Apple event: Sept 9, 2025
• iOS 26 likely release: mid‑September (often ~one week after the event)

Notable features

• Liquid Glass design — translucent, unified UI styling across the system and apps.
• Phone app redesign — scrollable contacts/recent/voicemail on one screen; new Hold Assist alerts.
• Live Translate — real‑time translation for calls and messages.
• Messages polls — create polls inside group chats.
• Lock screen upgrades — new clock styles, widgets, 3D wallpapers and enhanced Focus options.
• Alarm snooze flexibility — set snooze from 1 to 15 minutes.
• Camera & screenshots — simplified Camera UI, lens‑clean warning, and screenshot actions like Google image search and ChatGPT assistance from the editor.

Compatibility — iPhones not supported

Older 2018 iPhones will be left behind. The following models are confirmed as not supported for iOS 26:

• iPhone XR
• iPhone XS
• iPhone XS Max

Supported iPhones (selected)

Generally, iPhones announced in 2019 or later are supported. Examples include:

• iPhone SE (2nd gen and later)
• iPhone 11 / 11 Pro / 11 Pro Max
• iPhone 12 / 12 mini / 12 Pro / 12 Pro Max
• iPhone 13 / 13 mini / 13 Pro / 13 Pro Max
• iPhone 14 series
• iPhone 15 & 16 series

Supported iPads (selected)

• iPad Pro (M4)
• iPad Pro 12.9″ (3rd gen and later)
• iPad Pro 11″ (1st gen and later)
• iPad Air (3rd gen and later, including M2/M3)
• iPad (8th gen and later)
• iPad mini (5th gen and later)

Beta & upgrade notes

Public betas are generally more stable than developer betas. Developer beta builds may include extra features but carry more risk. Installing any beta can cause instability — back up your device first.

If your device isn’t supported, you can continue using it but may miss security updates and new app requirements over time.

Where to get more info

• Official Apple iOS page: https://www.apple.com/os/ios/
• More coverage: 9to5Mac summary: 9to5mac
• Compatibility checklist: CNET guide: CNET

Have a question or want me to check if your exact model is compatible? Reply with your iPhone model and I’ll confirm.