Apple has officially confirmed the release date for iOS 26. The next big update for iPhones will be available on Monday, September 15, 2025. While the spotlight has been on the brand-new iPhone 17 lineup, as well as the new iPhone Air, this update will soon land on older devices, too.

What’s new in iOS 26?

The biggest change is something Apple calls Liquid Glass. It’s a complete redesign of how iOS looks. The new style makes icons, menus, and notifications feel more fluid, almost like they’re moving under a layer of glass. This is easily one of the most noticeable changes iOS has had in years.

Another highlight is Apple Intelligence, Apple’s growing AI platform. With iOS 26, you’ll see smarter tools built directly into your phone. This includes automated call screening so spam calls don’t waste your time, on-device AI for privacy-friendly tasks, and improved search features that can look at what’s on your screen and help you take action instantly. Google has been poking fun at Apple Intelligence delays in the past, so it’s nice to see some improvements this September.

Messages also get some changes with polls, custom chat backgrounds, and live translation. Now you can talk across languages in real time, whether you’re on iMessage, FaceTime, or even a regular phone call. The lock screen is also more alive, as the time and notifications adapt around your wallpaper, and photos gain a subtle 3D effect when you tilt your iPhone.

Which iPhones support iOS 26?

The good news is that iOS 26 supports a wide range of iPhones, not just the newest models. If you own any of the following, you can install the update on September 15:

• iPhone 17, 17 Pro, 17 Pro Max, iPhone Air
• iPhone 16 series, including 16e
• iPhone 15 series
• iPhone 14 series
• iPhone 13 series, including 13 Mini
• iPhone 12 series
• iPhone 11 series
• iPhone SE (2020) and iPhone SE (2022)

About the Author

Abdul Haddi

Abdul is a tech writer and Editor for PC Guide, specializing in all things tech, gaming, and hardware.