The anticipation is nearing its end as iOS 26 is scheduled for a global release, including in India, by Apple today (Monday). Initially showcased at the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) 2025 in June, the new iPhone update has seen several developer and public beta versions in the following weeks.
According to Apple, the iOS 26 update will be accessible from today (Monday). Although the tech company hasn't mentioned a specific release time for the OS update, past iOS versions have typically been launched at 10am PT (which is 10:30pm IST for those in India).
During its 'Awe Dropping' event on September 9, the tech giant revealed that the newest iPhone 17 models would be the first to feature the OS pre-installed. Although these new devices won't be available for purchase until September 19, users can now enjoy the latest iOS 26 on compatible iPhone models.
Apple has revealed that every iPhone model involved in the beta program and updated will support the stable iOS 26 release. The iPhone 17 series and iPhone Air, launching on September 19, will come pre-installed with the new iOS 26 update.
As usual, the Apple Intelligence features will be exclusive to the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro, the iPhone 16 lineup, the iPhone 16e, the iPhone 17 lineup, and the iPhone Air. The complete list of devices comprises:
1. iPhone 17 Series
2. iPhone Air
3. iPhone 16e
4. iPhone 16 Series
5. iPhone 15 Series
6. iPhone 14 Series
7. iPhone SE (2022)
8. iPhone 13 Series
9. iPhone 12 Series
10. iPhone 11 Series
Apple states that iOS 26 features a new Liquid Glass UI capable of reflecting and refracting light, allowing it to interact with surrounding visual elements. The company claims this update offers a more unified look across Apple devices, drawing inspiration from visionOS.
Customization options for both the lock screen and home screen have been enhanced. A new Clear option is available for icons, complementing the Liquid Glass theme. Additionally, iOS 26 includes a revamped Camera app interface with an improved layout and easier mode switching. Some changes made to the Photos app last year have been reversed, reintroducing two separate tabs for Library and Collection views.
To install iOS 26 on your iPhone, follow these steps:
1. Access the Settings app on your iPhone
2. Go to the General section to locate the Software Update option
3. Your iPhone will automatically search for available updates
4. Select the Download & Install option, review the terms and conditions, and accept them
5. iOS 26 will subsequently be downloaded and installed on your device
