After a lengthy wait, iOS 26 is set to roll out to millions of iPhones tonight. Initially revealed in June at Apple’s WWDC Developers Conference, the much-anticipated update is now primed for widespread release, with Apple confirming that iOS 26 will be accessible from September 15.
This latest software enhancement boasts a range of new features, such as a fresh Liquid Glass appearance, an updated Lock Screen showcasing a clock that adjusts to available screen space, and Spatial scenes that animate wallpapers with a clever 3D effect.
Among its improvements, iOS 26 will introduce call blocking for spam calls, real-time language translation, and enhancements to Messages, Photos, Maps, and more.
This update comes at no cost, but unfortunately, not all users on iOS 18 will be able to make the transition. Periodically, Apple discontinues support for older devices that struggle to keep up with the demands of running the latest iOS versions.
Owners of the following devices will miss out on iOS 26:
– iPhone XS
– iPhone XS Max
– iPhone XR
To access iOS 26, users will need to upgrade to a newer device. Below is the complete list of iPhones compatible with iOS 26:
– iPhone 16 Pro/Pro Max
– iPhone 16 Plus
– iPhone 16
– iPhone 16e
– iPhone 15 Pro/Pro Max
– iPhone 15 Plus
– iPhone 15
– iPhone 14
– iPhone 14 Plus
– iPhone 14 Pro
– iPhone 14 Pro Max
– iPhone 13
– iPhone 13 mini
– iPhone 13 Pro
– iPhone 13 Pro Max
– iPhone 12
– iPhone 12 mini
– iPhone 12 Pro
– iPhone 12 Pro Max
– iPhone 11
– iPhone 11 Pro
– iPhone 11 Pro Max
– iPhone SE (2nd generation and later)
Once iOS 26 is released, expected around 6pm BST, users can find it in the Settings menu. It is advisable to be on Wi-Fi due to the large download size, and installation times may be longer on launch night due to high demand.
For a smoother experience, users may consider waiting until later in the week. Apple’s senior vice president of Software Engineering, Craig Federighi, described iOS 26 as offering a stunning new design and significant enhancements to daily features, making the iPhone even more user-friendly and efficient.