apple Unveils iOS 26: A Fresh Look and Exciting Features
At the recent WWDC 2025 event, Apple introduced iOS 26, showcasing a sleek new ‘Liquid Glass’ design along with a host of features. The good news is that many devices are compatible with this update, making it accessible to a wide range of users.
You might be wondering if you missed any updates sence the release of iOS 18 in 2024. In fact, Apple has skipped several version numbers. Instead of rolling out iOS 19 in 2025, we now have iOS 26 alongside othre system updates like iPadOS 26, macOS 26, watchOS 26, and tvOS 26. this change aligns AppleS operating system numbering for clarity.
With so much to explore in the new update, you’re likely curious about whether your device qualifies for the upgrade.
Is Your iPhone Ready for iOS 26?
your device must have an A13 Bionic chip or newer to run iOS 26.This means that an notable six generations of iPhones will support this latest software version—dating back to models released in late-2019.
If you're eager to get your hands on the new features and enhancements offered by this update, check if you own one of these compatible models:
- iPhone 16
- iPhone 16 Plus
- iPhone 16 Pro
- iPhone 16 Pro Max
- iPhone SE (3rd generation)
- iPhone SE (2nd generation)
- iPhone15
- iPhone15 Plus
- iPhone15 Pro
- iPhone15 Pro Max
- Iphone14
- Iphone14 Plus
- iphone XS
- iphone XS max
- iphone XR
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if you own any of these older models:
You won’t be able to upgrade to ios6 after receiving ios8 last year.
It’s not surprising given that these phones are now eight years old and running outdated technology. If you're using one of these devices right now consider upgrading later this year so you can enjoy all the latest features while also benefiting from ongoing security updates.
The Timeline for Your Upgrade: When Can You Expect It?
If you're lucky enough to possess one of those supported models listed above, Apple has indicated that you'll need to wait until ‘Fall'—likely around September—for the final version of this operating system.
Basing our expectations on previous releases from Apple suggests that they will roll out ios6 shortly after unveiling iphone17 which is expected mid-september time frame!
If waiting isn’t your style and you'd like early access before than? You can opt into downloading public beta versions available starting July! Just keep in mind; beta software may contain bugs as it’s still under development.
For those who rely heavily on their phones for important communication tasks? It might be best not risk potential issues by avoiding beta downloads altogether!
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