Apple has officially launched the stable versions of iOS 26 and iPadOS 26 on September 15, following several months of beta testing. This rollout coincides with the introduction of the iPhone 17 series and iPhone Air, which will come with the new software pre-installed. For current users, this update represents one of the most significant changes in recent years, featuring a redesigned interface and numerous new functionalities. Supported iPhones for iOS 26 include all models released from 2019 onward, allowing owners of the iPhone 11 series and newer to upgrade.
The complete list of eligible devices includes: iPhone 17 series, iPhone 17 Air, iPhone 16 series, iPhone 15 series, iPhone 14 series, iPhone 13 series, iPhone 12 series, iPhone 11 series, and iPhone SE (2nd generation and later). However, older models like the iPhone XR, iPhone XS, and iPhone XS Max from 2018 will not support iOS 26 and will instead receive iOS 18.7, which focuses mainly on security patches. For iPadOS 26, the rollout will include a wide range of Apple tablets, although older devices are being phased out.
Supported iPad models consist of: iPad Pro (M4 and 3rd generation or newer), iPad Air (3rd generation and later), iPad (8th generation and later), and iPad mini (5th generation and later). Any iPad model not listed will remain on previous software versions and will not be eligible for iPadOS 26. This update introduces a new design language called Liquid Glass, providing a more cohesive and fluid appearance across menus, apps, and the lock screen. Apple has optimized system animations, enhancing navigation smoothness and responsiveness.
Key features include: an upgraded Phone app with Hold Assist to notify users when a call center agent connects, improved messaging capabilities with group chat polls and Live Translate enhancements, expanded lock screen customization options, a redesigned camera app for easier navigation, adjustable snooze times for alarms, a consolidated Games app hub for gaming activities, and Visual Intelligence enhancements similar to Google’s Circle to Search, now integrated with ChatGPT for smarter assistance. These updates not only modernize the interface but also improve functionality for everyday tasks. The updates are available worldwide, including in India, where the rollout is expected around 10:30 pm IST. Users can check for updates through the Settings > General > Software Update menu.
Additionally, Apple’s new iPhones—the iPhone 17, iPhone Air, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max—are currently available for pre-order, with sales starting on September 19. All new devices will ship with iOS 26 pre-installed. With iOS 26 and iPadOS 26, Apple continues to advance its design, productivity tools, and smart integrations, laying the groundwork for the next generation of its ecosystem.