Apple’s next major iPhone software update is about to arrive. With the launch of the iPhone 17 lineup, iOS 26 will officially roll out to compatible devices on September 15, 2025. The update was first previewed at WWDC this summer and marks one of the biggest interface changes in years.

Like every major release, iOS 26 will be available to download through the Settings app. Once it’s live, you can head to Settings > General > Software Update to install it. The update typically goes live globally in the afternoon, but availability may vary by region.

Key highlights in iOS 26

• Liquid Glass design: A completely new design language where app icons and system elements appear glass-like and move with fluid animations.

• Photos and Phone app updates: Photos now has clearer separation between your main library and albums. The Phone app gains better call organization tools.

• Messages upgrades: Group chats support custom backgrounds and polls. Searching conversations with natural language is also now possible.

• New Games app: A central hub for all mobile games, including score comparisons and Apple Arcade integration.

• Apple Intelligence features: Real-time AI translation for calls and messages, voicemail summaries, and image generation inside Image Playground. Genmoji lets you combine multiple emojis into one.

Compatible devices for iOS 26
Not every iPhone will support the update. Apple has confirmed compatibility for:

• iPhone SE (2nd generation and newer)

• iPhone 11 series

• iPhone 12 series

• iPhone 13 series

• iPhone 14 series

• iPhone 15 series

• iPhone 16 series, including 16e

If your iPhone isn’t listed, you won’t be able to install iOS 26.

With its mix of design changes and AI features, iOS 26 looks to be Apple’s most ambitious iPhone update in years. For anyone with a supported device, the download will be waiting on September 15.