Apple has released the much-anticipated iOS 26, currently available as a free software update. The upgraded iPhone operating system promises a major shift in user experience and daily visual interface.
The tech giant announced the iOS 26 update at the WWDC 25 conference in June. A week after Apple’s ‘Awe-dropping’ event, revealing the iPhone 17 series, the company continues to impress fans with this new operating system.
Touted as Apple’s biggest leap into AI-powered mobile computing, iOS 26 is equipped with new features, including Apple Intelligence, the company’s AI-driven platform, to real-time translation, redesigned apps, and enhanced privacy tools.
Liquid Glass: Apple’s new design, Liquid Glass, integrates a more expressive experience using translucent objects to make multitasking and operating apps flawless and easier.
With features like improved Control Center access and a customizable Lock Screen, Liquid Glass brings a fresh, more personalized look to the iPhone.
Apple Intelligence: Apple’s AI and machine-learning capabilities empower Siri to provide notification summaries, rephrased messages, and prompt-based image creation.
Beyond AI: Both Apple Music and Maps will feature more fluid layouts. Users will receive live translation for both FaceTime and Messages, a step to make communication easy across languages in real-time. Advanced call screening and content filter, built directly into the system, to add an extra layer of privacy.
Games Hub: Apple has launched a new, consolidated downloads, achievements, and recommendations interface into one streamlined app.
Apple has always drawn a line on device compatibility before every major software upgrade. Newer iPhone models will get access to this AI-heavy upgrade, leaving many older models behind. The following are the devices eligible for the iOS 26 update.
iPhone 16e
iPhone 16
iPhone 16 Plus
iPhone 16 Pro
iPhone 16 Pro Max
iPhone 15
iPhone 15 Plus
iPhone 15 Pro
iPhone 15 Pro Max
iPhone 14
iPhone 14 Plus
iPhone 14 Pro
iPhone 14 Pro Max
iPhone 13
iPhone 13 Mini
iPhone 13 Pro
iPhone 13 Pro Max
iPhone 12
iPhone 12 Mini
iPhone 12 Pro
iPhone 12 Pro Max
iPhone 11
iPhone 11 Pro
iPhone 11 Pro Max,
iPhone SE (2nd generation and later)
Users will enjoy a smooth and lag-free experience with newer models.
Also Read: Hidden iOS 26 Features You Must Know
Open the Settings app on iPhone.
Tap on ‘General’ and then click on ‘Software Update’.
Eligible iPhones will show an available update; click on ‘Download & Install’ it.
Tap on the option, agree to the terms and conditions, and enter your passcode if prompted.
iOS 26 will now begin installing. To complete the update, the device should be restarted.
To avoid potential data loss during the upgrade process, it's strongly recommended to back up the iPhone using iCloud or an external storage solution before starting the update. Ensuring the device is connected to a power source is equally important, especially if the battery level is below 50% to prevent interruptions during installation.
Integrating these features in the Apple ecosystem, iOS 26 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting Apple upgrades of the year.