iOS 26 is here — who can get it and what’s new
Apple released iOS 26 (and iPadOS 26) to the public this week. If your iPhone was announced in 2019 or later, you should be eligible to install the update. Note: three 2018 iPhones are not supported—iPhone XR, iPhone XS and iPhone XS Max—and will not receive iOS 26.
Quick highlights
- Liquid Glass: a refreshed UI with new app icons, floating buttons and cohesive visuals across Apple OSes.
- Live Translate: real-time translation during calls and messages.
- Phone app redesign: scroll contacts, calls, and voicemail on one screen; new Hold Assist feature.
- Lock screen & Camera upgrades: more customization, 3D wallpaper effects, simplified Camera UI and a lens-dirty warning.
- Other features: polls in group Messages, longer/shorter alarm snooze options, screenshot search & ChatGPT integration.
Compatible iPhones (announced 2019+)
iPhone SE (2nd gen+), iPhone 11 series, iPhone 12 series, iPhone 13 series, iPhone 14 series, iPhone 15 series, iPhone 16 series, iPhone 17, iPhone Air, and related models.
Not supported
iPhone XR, iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max (2018 models).
Should you upgrade?
If you want the newest features and visual overhaul, upgrade to iOS 26. If you prefer stability and security-only fixes, iOS 18.7 is available as a less dramatic option that still patches security issues.
More info
Official Apple details and the full compatibility list: https://www.apple.com/ios/ios-26/
Will you upgrade today or wait for bug fixes? Share your plan in the comments.