Apple has begun rolling out iOS 26, its latest operating system update, to iPhone users worldwide on Monday, September 15. The launch comes just days after the company unveiled the iPhone 17 series at its ‘Awe Dropping’ event. iOS 26 is one of Apple’s most significant software upgrades in recent years, bringing a redesigned look called Liquid Glass, new AI-powered tools under “Apple Intelligence,” and stronger privacy controls. The update is available for a wide range of iPhones, starting from the iPhone 11 to the newly launched models, and will reach users in India from 10:30 PM IST.

Apple iPhone iOS 26 Features

The biggest change in iOS 26 is the new design language called Liquid Glass. Apple says it adds a more expressive look to everyday elements like the lock screen, home screen, and control centre. It will also extend to buttons, switches, sliders, text, tab bars, and sidebars.

Artificial Intelligence has been expanded under “Apple Intelligence.” Features include live translation in messages and captions during FaceTime calls. The update also adds call and message screening, which moves texts from unknown senders into a separate folder where users can decide whether to keep or delete them.

Apple Wallet has gained new options, including online ID verification for added security.

Apple iPhone iOS 26: Who gets the best features?

Users with newer iPhones, especially the iPhone 16 and iPhone 17 series, will get the most out of iOS 26. The redesigned Liquid Glass interface and AI-powered tools such as live translation, FaceTime captions, and better Siri integration are built to take advantage of the latest hardware. People who rely on privacy features will also benefit from call and message screening, along with Wallet’s online ID verification.

Professionals who use their iPhones for work may find Apple Intelligence useful for smoother communication and productivity.

Apple iPhone iOS 26 Update: Who may skip?

Owners of older models like the iPhone 11 or iPhone 12 may not see a big performance boost. For some, the new design and AI features could slow down their devices over time. Users who depend on apps for work may also prefer to wait a few weeks before upgrading, as some apps may take time to fully adapt to iOS 26.

Those who value stability above all may want to delay the download until Apple releases the first set of bug fixes.

Apple iPhone iOS 26 download:

To update to iOS 26:

• Open Settings on iPhone
• Go to General and select Software Update
• Tap Download & Install and agree to the terms and conditions
• ake sure there is enough storage space on the device

Apple iPhone iOS 26 Supported Devices

The iOS 26 update will be available on the following devices:

• iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone 17 Pro Max, iPhone Air
• iPhone 16e, iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, iPhone 16 Pro Max
• iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max
• 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)