New Liquid Glass theme, dynamic lock screen, and redesigned app icons.
Siri gets ChatGPT support, live translations, and FaceTime captions.
Stronger privacy with call screening, message filtering, online ID verification in Wallet.
Apple has begun rolling out iOS 26 globally, following the launch of the iPhone 17 series at the company’s “Awe Dropping” event last week. The update, released on September 15, is one of Apple’s most significant iOS upgrades in years, with major design changes, AI, and privacy feature upgrades. First showcased at WWDC 2025 in June, the update has since gone through developer and public betas before the global release. It is available as a free download for iPhone 11 series and above starting today.
SurveyHere’s everything you need to know about iOS 26.
iOS 26 update: Compatible 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)
iOS 26 update: Features and changelog
Apple iOS 26 has introduced a fresh design language, new AI-powered features under “Apple Intelligence,” and stronger privacy tools.
The standout addition is the Liquid Glass theme, which brings fluid animations and depth effects across the interface. The lock screen clock now adapts dynamically to wallpapers, while redesigned app icons come in light and dark variations for a more refined look.
Another key feature is call screening, which will ask unknown callers to state their name and reason even before the phone rings, while message filtering will organise texts from unknown numbers to a separate folder. Other additions include smarter Maps, Apple Music AutoMix, and a dedicated Gaming app to track playtime and offer personalised recommendations.
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AI integration also takes a big leap with Siri getting ChatGPT support, allowing for more natural, contextual conversations. Apple has also introduced live translation in Messages and automatic captions in FaceTime, improving both accessibility and communication across languages.
The Wallet app gets a boost with online ID verification, potentially reducing reliance on physical ID checks for supported services.
iOS 26 update: How to download
Users can install the update by heading to Settings > General > Software Update, then tapping Download & Install. Ensure sufficient storage and a Wi-Fi connection before starting the process.
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Himani Jha
Himani Jha is a tech news writer at Digit. Passionate about smartphones and consumer technology, she has contributed to leading publications such as Times Network, Gadgets 360, and Hindustan Times Tech for the past five years. When not immersed in gadgets, she enjoys exploring the vibrant culinary scene, discovering new cafes and restaurants, and indulging in her love for fine literature and timeless music. View Full Profile
