After a long wait, iOS 26 is set to roll out to millions of iPhones tonight. This major update was first announced in June at Apple’s WWDC Developers Conference and is now ready for widespread release, with Apple confirming the availability of iOS 26 starting from September 15.
The new software upgrade brings a range of features, including a fresh Liquid Glass design, an updated Lock Screen with a clock that adjusts to screen space, and Spatial scenes that animate wallpapers with a clever 3D effect. Additionally, iOS 26 introduces features like spam call blocking, real-time language translation, and enhancements to Messages, Photos, Maps, and more.
This update is offered for free but not all users on the current iOS 18 operating system will be able to upgrade. Apple occasionally discontinues support for older devices that cannot keep up with the demands of the latest iOS versions.
Unfortunately, users of iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, and iPhone XR will miss out on iOS 26 as these devices are not compatible with the update. To access iOS 26, users will need to upgrade to a newer device. The list of iPhones compatible with iOS 26 includes iPhone 16 Pro/Pro Max, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16, iPhone 16e, iPhone 15 series, iPhone 14 series, iPhone 13 series, iPhone 12 series, iPhone 11 series, and iPhone SE (2nd generation and later).
Once iOS 26 is released, expected around 6 p.m. BST, users can find it in the Settings menu. Due to the large file size, it is recommended to download the update using Wi-Fi. Installation times may be slower on launch night due to high demand, but speed is expected to improve later in the week.
Craig Federighi, Apple’s senior vice president of Software Engineering, described iOS 26 as featuring a stunning new design and significant enhancements to daily features, making the iPhone more user-friendly. The update aims to provide a more personalized and expressive experience, with new capabilities in Phone and Messages to enhance meaningful connections. The integration of Apple Intelligence across the system also promises to simplify tasks for users.