Apple's anticipated iOS 26 release schedule, compatible gadgets, features, and all known details
Apple's highly anticipated iOS 26 update is set to be released in mid-September 2025, shortly after the company's annual iPhone event. This timing follows Apple's consistent pattern of releasing major iOS updates within a week after announcing new iPhones.
The new update will bring a plethora of exciting features to iPhone users, ranging from AI enhancements to improved user interfaces in core apps like Messages, Apple Music, Wallet, and CarPlay.
AI-Powered Features
One of the most significant changes in iOS 26 is the integration of an enhanced ChatGPT, backed by the GPT-5 model. This integration is expected to be available on the iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 16, iPhone 17 series, as well as on iPadOS 26 and macOS Tahoe 26.
In addition, iOS 26 will offer some advanced capabilities, like richer AI image generation, although these features will require paid access.
Device Compatibility
While Apple has not yet released an official device compatibility list for iOS 26, the update is expected to support the last several generations of iPhones, including the latest iPhone 17 series and last-generation models like iPhone 14, iPhone 13, and possibly iPhone 12 and 11 series. This prediction is based on Apple's typical device support longevity.
Other Notable Features
iOS 26 will also introduce the Liquid Glass interface, a significant redesign, and performance improvements. The update will bring Live Translation, improved image search, and enhanced Image Playground.
Apple Maps, Wallet, and Camera apps are said to get some significant upgrades with iOS 26. Users can also generate text, solve problems, and get visual intelligence features without the need for extra apps.
The update is also expected to include Call and Message Screening, along with a few updates to Messages. Furthermore, the Safari and Camera apps will get new features and an improved user interface.
Beta Versions and Release
Beta versions of iOS 26 are already available to developers and public beta testers before the general release. However, the exact release dates for the public version have yet to be announced.
iPhone 17 Series Release
The iPhone 17 series, which is predicted to be released on September 8 or September 9, will debut with iOS 26 globally.
In summary, expect the iOS 26 public release in mid-September 2025, compatible with the current and recent iPhone models, following Apple's usual rollout schedule soon after unveiling the iPhone 17 lineup.
The iOS 26 update, schedules for release in mid-September 2025, will be compatible with the latest iPhone 17 series, and it's likely that other recent iPhone models like the iPhone 14, iPhone 13, and possibly the iPhone 12 and 11 series, will also be supported, given Apple's typical device support longevity. This upcoming update will introduce a multitude of AI-powered features, including an enhanced ChatGPT, richer AI image generation, and various improvements in core apps like Apple Maps, Wallet, and Camera.
