Apple Sets iOS 26 Release for September 15

Apple will roll out iOS 26 to all compatible iPhones on Monday, September 15, bringing the Liquid Glass redesign and enhanced Apple Intelligence features to users worldwide.

The upcoming update, first unveiled at WWDC on June 9, follows three months of beta testing and promises a major visual overhaul alongside system-wide improvements, making it one of Apple’s most significant software releases of the year.

From WWDC to Your iPhone

iOS 26 debuted at Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference on June 9, where developers received the first beta. Public betas began in late July, culminating in a release candidate in early September. After refining performance and fixing bugs across nine beta builds, Apple has confirmed the final launch date.

Key Features in iOS 26

  • Liquid Glass Design: A semi-transparent interface throughout system apps and UI elements, introducing subtle depth and motion.
  • Apple Intelligence Enhancements: Live translation in Messages and system-wide Spotlight searches powered by on-device intelligence.
  • Revamped Core Apps:
    • Wallet gains streamlined navigation and richer notifications.
    • CarPlay displays more live data and supports Tapbacks in Messages while driving.
    • Photos reorganized into “Library” and “Collections,” plus spatial scenes for favorite images.
  • New Messaging Tools: Poll creation, custom chat backgrounds, and improved group management.
  • Expanded Accessibility: New Braille display support and customizable Vehicle Motion Cues.

Supported Devices and Availability

iOS 26 will be available as a free update for iPhone 12 and later models, including all iPhone 13, 14, and 15 variants, plus iPhone 11, SE (2nd gen and newer), and the iPhone 16 and 17 series. Users can install the update via Settings > General > Software Update starting September 15.

What’s Next

Pre-order windows for the iPhone 17 lineup open September 12, with device availability from September 19. Developers can reference detailed release notes on Apple’s Developer website, while consumers should back up their devices before updating to ensure a smooth transition.