iOS 26 Updates: Everything you need to know

Apple is gearing up to release iOS 26 on Monday, September 15, 2025—and it’s shaping up to be one of the biggest updates in recent years. Packed with design changes, AI enhancements, and smarter tools, iOS 26 is not just about new looks—it’s about making your iPhone smarter, faster, and more intuitive.
Which iPhones Will Get iOS 26?

Which iPhones Will Get iOS 26?

iOS 26 is compatible with iPhone models starting from the iPhone 11 up to the iPhone 16 Pro Max:

• iPhone 11 / 11 Pro / 11 Pro Max
  
• iPhone SE (2nd gen and later)
  
• iPhone 12 / 12 mini / 12 Pro / 12 Pro Max
  
• iPhone 13 / 13 mini / 13 Pro / 13 Pro Max
  
• iPhone 14 / 14 Plus / 14 Pro / 14 Pro Max
  
• iPhone 15 / 15 Plus / 15 Pro / 15 Pro Max
  
• iPhone 16e / 16 / 16 Plus / 16 Pro / 16 Pro Max

Note: Older models like iPhone X, Xs, and Xr will no longer receive updates, so this is a good moment to upgrade. If you want all the latest Apple AI features, an iPhone 15 Pro or newer is required.

Do you want to know how much years does each iPhone model has of upgrades? Find out here.

Design Updates: Liquid Glass

iOS 26 introduces the Liquid Glass design, giving the interface a smooth, glass-like feel with intuitive swipes and scrolling. Here’s what’s new:

• Liquid Glass Interactions – Real-time reflections and refractions make apps and content visually immersive.
  
• Adaptive Lock Screen – Widgets and notifications dynamically adjust around your photos.
  
• Spatial Scenes – 3D effects bring wallpapers to life as you move your iPhone.
  
• Custom App Icons – New light/dark appearances, colour-tinted icons, and transparent designs.
  
• Animated Album Art – Music playback is more immersive with full-screen artist animations.

Apple Intelligence Features

iOS 26 strengthens Apple’s AI capabilities:

• Shortcuts – Intelligent actions integrate Writing Tools, Image Playground, and other AI features.
  
• “Use Model” Action – Tap directly into Apple Intelligence models or ChatGPT to power your shortcuts.
  
• Genmoji & Image Playground – Create custom emoji characters, tweak facial features, and explore artistic styles like Oil Painting and Anime.
  

Camera & Photos

Apple made key improvements for photography and media:

• Streamlined Camera Design – Easier access to Photo and Video modes.
  
• Lens Cleaning Alerts – Ensures clearer photos (iPhone 15+).
  
• AirPods Photo/Video Gestures – Capture moments via AirPods 4 or AirPods Pro 2+ stems.
  
• Photos App – New tabs for Library and Collections, customisable layouts, event recognition, and enhanced search with AI/ChatGPT integration.

Live Translation

iOS 26 makes communication across languages smoother:

• Messages – Incoming texts automatically translated, including group chats.
  
• FaceTime – Live translated captions appear during calls.
  
• Phone – Audio translated in real time, with transcription support.
  
• AirPods – Hands-free translation when nearby speakers talk in different languages.

Phone & Messaging Enhancements

• Unified Call Layout – Combines Favorites, Recents, and Voicemails.
  
• Call Screening – Screen unknown numbers and see caller info before answering.
  
• Hold Assist – Keep your place in call queues with automatic callback.
  
• Message Backgrounds & Polls – Customise chats and easily organise group decisions.
  
• Typing Indicators – Know who’s about to respond in group chats.
  
• Pinned Conversations & Tapbacks – Quick access and simple reactions.

Maps & Navigation

• Visited Places – Track and save locations like restaurants or stores.
  
• Preferred Routes – AI learns your frequent drives to suggest optimal routes.
  

Music & Wallet Improvements

• Lyrics Translation & Pronunciation – Understand songs in any language.
  
• AutoMix DJ-style Playback – Continuous playback with beatmatching.
  
• Pinned Library Items – Quick access to favorites.
  
• Wallet Updates – Track orders, view boarding passes, and manage payment options seamlessly.

Adaptive Battery & Speed

• iOS 26 introduces an adaptive battery tool that uses AI to learn your usage and extend battery life. Apps launch faster, camera modes are optimised, and your iPhone overall feels smoother and smarter.

iOS 26 is all about intelligence, speed, and design. Whether you’re on a supported iPhone 11 or the latest iPhone 16 Pro Max, this update brings your device to the next level. From Liquid Glass visuals to AI-powered shortcuts and real-time translation, iOS 26 makes everyday interactions more intuitive and immersive.