Does Your iPhone Support iOS 26? Check Out Full List Of Models That Make The Cut
While Apple hasn’t confirmed the exact date, the final iOS 26 release typically happens soon after new iPhones hit the shelves — so expect it around September.
Apple has officially lifted the curtain on iOS 26, the next-generation iPhone software, during its keynote event at WWDC 2025. Packed with design overhauls and intelligent features, the update aims to transform how users interact with their devices. From an all-new Liquid Glass interface to powerful Apple Intelligence tools, iOS 26 promises a more dynamic, personal, and secure experience for iPhone users.
A Shiny New Coat: Meet the Liquid Glass Interface
The most visible change in iOS 26 is its sleek Liquid Glass aesthetic, which Apple says brings “real-time reflections, translucency, and motion” across the system. The updated look adds visual depth to widgets, icons, and notifications, making everyday interactions more immersive. Native apps like Photos, Music, and News are also getting a facelift to match this new visual style, putting content front and centre while decluttering unnecessary controls.
The revamp isn’t just skin-deep. iOS 26 brings smarter functionality, too, thanks to deeper integration of Apple Intelligence. Siri becomes more proactive with on-device suggestions, and users can now access features like Live Translation and Genmoji within supported apps.
Who Can Try It, and When?
Developers got first dibs on iOS 26, with the beta version made available immediately after the keynote on June 9, 2025. Those enrolled in Apple’s Developer Program can access the update via the Settings app, provided their Apple ID is tied to a registered developer account. Apple has cautioned early testers about bugs and stability issues with these early builds.
For regular users, the public beta will arrive in July 2025 through the Apple Beta Software Program. The final rollout of the stable version is expected to coincide with the launch of the iPhone 16 series in September.
Which iPhones Make the iOS 26 Cut?
iOS 26 will be available as a free update for the following models:
- iPhone 11
- iPhone 12 series
- iPhone 13 series
- iPhone 14 series
- iPhone 15 series
- iPhone 16 series
However, the most cutting-edge Apple Intelligence features — like advanced Siri enhancements — will only be supported on newer devices. These include:
- iPhone 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max
- iPhone 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, 16 Pro Max
That means some of the AI-powered tools may remain exclusive to the most recent iPhones due to hardware limitations.
What's Next?
The global rollout of iOS 26, including for users in India, is slated for later this year. While Apple hasn’t confirmed the exact date, the final release typically happens soon after new iPhones hit the shelves — so expect it around September.
With a fresh design, smarter assistant features, and tighter privacy controls, iOS 26 is shaping up to be one of Apple’s most ambitious software releases yet. As Apple puts it, this update is all about making the iPhone experience “faster, more personal, and more secure.”
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