The wait is over—iOS 26 iPhones are set to receive Apple’s most significant software overhaul in over a decade. Announced at WWDC 2025, iOS 26 introduces a stunning Liquid Glass design, powerful Apple Intelligence features, and smarter ways to stay connected. Whether you’re excited about the iOS 26 iPhones release date (expected September 16, 2025) or curious if your device supports it, this guide covers everything—from compatible models to key features and how to get the beta.
iOS 26 Release Date & Availability
Apple’s iOS 26 will officially launch in fall 2025, most likely on September 16—just days after the iPhone 17 unveiling 69. Here’s the rollout timeline:
- Developer Beta: Available now (June 2025) for registered developers.
- Public Beta: Expected to arrive in July 2025 for early adopters.
- Stable Release: September 16, 2025 (global rollout).
Note: Some Apple Intelligence features require an iPhone 15 Pro or newer due to hardware limitations.
Which iPhones Support iOS 26?
Not all iPhones will get the update. Here’s the full list of supported models:
iOS 26 Compatible iPhones
| Model | Year Released | Notes |
| iPhone 11 Series | 2019 | No Apple Intelligence |
| iPhone 12 Series | 2020 | No Apple Intelligence |
| iPhone 13 Series | 2021 | No Apple Intelligence |
| iPhone 14 Series | 2022 | Limited AI features |
| iPhone 15 Series | 2023 | Full AI support (Pro models) |
| iPhone 16 Series | 2024 | Optimized for iOS 26 |
| iPhone SE (2nd/3rd Gen) | 2020/2022 | No Apple Intelligence |
Dropped Support:
- iPhone XR, XS, XS Max (2018).
Top 5 iOS 26 Features You’ll Love
1. Liquid Glass Design – A Fresh Look
Apple’s biggest visual refresh since iOS 7, the Liquid Glass interface introduces:
- Translucent, glass-like menus with dynamic lighting.
- Rounded app icons & widgets that adapt to wallpapers.
- 3D parallax wallpapers that move with your phone.
2. Apple Intelligence – Smarter Than Ever
Exclusive to iPhone 15 Pro & newer, these AI upgrades include:
- Live Translation in Messages, Calls & FaceTime.
- Visual Search (identify objects via camera).
- Smarter Siri with ChatGPT integration.
3. Messages & Phone Upgrades
- Call Screening (auto-transcribes unknown callers).
- Hold Assist (alerts you when a human picks up).
- Group Chat Polls (finally!).
4. Enhanced CarPlay Experience
- Compact call notifications (no more full-screen interruptions).
- Live Activities (real-time sports scores, Uber ETA).
5. New Apple Games App
A primary center for mobile and Apple Arcade games with:
- Friends’ activity tracking.
- Personalized recommendations.
iOS 26 vs. Android 16: How Do They Compare?
| Feature | iOS 26 | Android 16 |
| Design | Liquid Glass (transparent layers) | Material You (color customization) |
| AI | Apple Intelligence (on-device) | Gemini AI (cloud + device) |
| Privacy | End-to-end encryption | Google’s Privacy Sandbox |
| Gaming | Apple Games hub | Google Play Games |
Final assessment: iOS 26 triumphs in terms of seamless integration within its ecosystem, while Android 16 allows for enhanced customization options.
How to Install iOS 26 Beta (Right Now!)
Want early access? Follow these steps:
- Back up your iPhone (iCloud or Mac/PC).
- Enroll in Apple Beta Program (beta.apple.com).
- Proceed to Settings > General > Software Update > Beta Updates.
- Select “iOS 26 Public Beta” and download.
Warning: Betas may have bugs—avoid installing on your primary device!
FAQs About iOS 26 iPhones
1. Will iOS 26 slow down my older iPhone?
No, but Apple Intelligence features require an A17 Pro chip or newer (iPhone 15 Pro/16).
2. Is iOS 26 a free update?
Yes! All compatible iPhones get it for free in September.
3. Can I downgrade if I don’t like iOS 26?
Only during the beta phase. Subsequent to the official release, Apple halts the signing of older iOS versions.
4. Does iOS 26 support always-on display?
Yes, but only on iPhone 14 Pro/15 Pro/16 Pro models.
5. Will my apps stop working after updating?
Most apps will work, but some may need updates for Liquid Glass compatibility.
Final Verdict: Should You Upgrade to iOS 26?
✅ Yes if you have an iPhone 15 Pro/16 – You’ll get the full Apple Intelligence experience.
✅ Maybe if you have an iPhone 12-14 – You’ll enjoy the new design but miss some AI features.
❌ No if you own an iPhone XR/XS – Time to upgrade your device!
Will you be installing iOS 26? Share your thoughts in the comments!