Apple has officially rolled out the long-awaited iOS 26 update to iPhone users.
First announced during the iPhone 17 event, the new version became available on September 20 after nine beta releases and a Release Candidate build. It is now live for iPhone 11 and later models.
Liquid Glass: A Fresh Design Language
The biggest highlight of iOS 26 is the brand-new design concept called “Liquid Glass.” Featuring translucent, glass-like interface elements, this aesthetic extends beyond the lock screen, enhancing the home screen, control center, menus, and app buttons with a modern and refined look.
Key Features and Improvements
iOS 26 introduces a wide range of updates across system apps and core functionalities:
- Lock Screen: Adaptive clock, 3D photo effects
- Apps: Updated icons, animated album covers
- Messages: Separate inbox for unknown numbers, AI-generated backgrounds, poll suggestions
- Phone & FaceTime: Call filtering, live translation, hold assistance
- Apple Music: Lyrics translation, AutoMix, song pinning
- Apple Maps: Recently visited places and favorite routes
- Photos: Simplified layout, Visual Intelligence for screenshots
- Camera: Redesigned UI, lens cleaning notification
- Shortcuts: Smarter actions with model integration
- Apple Intelligence: Genmoji and Image Playground (with ChatGPT integration)
- Apple Games: A new hub for gaming
- Accessibility: Expanded accessibility tools
- System Enhancements: Adaptive power mode, estimated charging time, reminder suggestions
Before You Update
The iOS 26 update requires around 10 GB of free storage, depending on the model. Apple strongly recommends backing up your iPhone via iCloud or a computer before upgrading. This ensures that if you want to revert to iOS 18 or face unexpected issues, you can restore your data seamlessly.
Compatible iPhones
- iPhone 16 lineup (16e, 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, 16 Pro Max)
- iPhone 15 lineup
- iPhone 14 lineup
- iPhone 13 lineup
- iPhone 12 lineup
- iPhone 11 lineup
- iPhone SE (2nd gen and newer)