iOS 26 brings redesigned icons, a revamped Control Center, and a translucent UI inspired by visionOS.
New features include Live Translation, smart summaries, call/message screening, and Apple Games.
The update supports iPhone SE (2nd gen) and newer, excluding the iPhone 11 series and older models.
At WWDC 2025, Apple unveiled iOS 26, a new update featuring a liquid glass design. It is believed to be the largest software design overhaul since iOS 7, and it is inspired by the vision OS. The new update has refreshed the icons, added a slew of new features, and improved design elements. Additionally, the control center and lock screen have also got some notable changes.
While Apple has not confirmed the iOS 26 release date at the moment, we do know about the features, design and supported devices. Here’s everything we know.
iOS 26 release timeline
Apple has already confirmed that iOS 26 will be rolling out this fall. Looking at the previous release patterns, the update is said to roll out in mid-September, soon after the iPhone 17 series makes its debut. If you want to try it out, you can update the device to developer beta till Apple introduces a public beta update. However, it is advised that you take a full data backup before updating.
Also read: Apple accuses former employee of stealing Vision Pro secrets before joining Snap
iOS 26 design
The new iOS 26 with liquid glass design brings translucent, refractive surfaces that adapt to light and content around them. Most of Apple’s native application, lock screen and third party applications.
iOS 26 features
The company has enhanced the Apple Intelligence integration with smart summaries, contextual visual actions, and enhanced Live Translation. It will also get call and message screening, which will allow users to filter unknown contacts, while Messages gets polls, Apple Cash support, and conversation-specific themes.
Safari, Apple Music, Maps, Wallet and Camera get new features and better user interface for enhanced daily usability. Apple has also stepped into gaming and has introduced Apple Games, a new game center.
iOS 26 supported devices and system requirements
The iOS 26 will be eligible for the iPhone SE (2nd gen and newer), iPhone 12 series, iPhone 13, iPhone 14, iPhone 15, and iPhone 16 series. The iPhone 17 series is said to debut pre-loaded with the iOS 26.
Older devices like the iPhone 11 and earlier are expected to be excluded. The update may require around 8GB of free space and at least 50% battery with Wi-Fi for installation.
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Ashish Singh
Ashish Singh is the Chief Copy Editor at Digit. He's been wrangling tech jargon since 2020 (Times Internet, Jagran English '22). When not policing commas, he's likely fueling his gadget habit with coffee, strategising his next virtual race, or plotting a road trip to test the latest in-car tech. He speaks fluent Geek. View Full Profile
