Apple has officially launched the iPhone 17 series, introducing four new models that cater to a wide range of users. The standard iPhone 17, the iPhone 17 Air and the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max. However, one thing that went under the radar amidst all the talk of new iPhones is the soul of the iPhones, iOS 26. The Apple operating system’s latest version has releasing today.
iOS 26 launched
Alongside the new hardware, Apple announced the release date for its next major software update iOS 26 is now available globally from today. The update will be delivered to compatible devices and brings a host of visual and functional changes. Apple also confirmed that watchOS 26 will also launch today, supporting Apple Watch Series 6 and newer, including all Ultra models. To pair with the new watchOS, users will need an iPhone 11 or later running iOS 26.
Liquid Glass: New Design Language
The most striking change in iOS 26 is the introduction of a new design language called Liquid Glass. This glossy, translucent interface gives iOS a fresh and modern look, with fluid animations and depth effects that flow across the lock screen, widgets, notifications, and system apps. Apple describes Liquid Glass as a way to make the operating system feel more immersive and personal, enhancing the visual experience without compromising usability. It’s a bold aesthetic shift that sets iOS 26 apart from previous versions.
iOS 26: Apple Intelligence Features
iOS 26 also debuts Apple Intelligence, a suite of AI-powered features designed to make everyday tasks easier and more intuitive. These tools include intelligent summaries of messages and notifications, context-aware actions that adapt to your activity, and real-time translation integrated across apps. However, these advanced capabilities require powerful hardware and are only available on select devices: the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max, the entire iPhone 16 lineup, and the newly introduced iPhone 16e.
iOS 26: Messages and Phone Apps Upgrades
Apple has revamped the Messages app with several new features aimed at making communication more expressive and interactive. Users can now customize chat backgrounds, create in-chat polls, apply themes to individual conversations, and see typing indicators in group chats. Apple Cash is also integrated directly into messages, allowing for seamless peer-to-peer payments.
The Phone app receives two standout features: Call Screening, which uses AI to block spam and unwanted calls, and Hold Assist, a clever tool that stays on the line for you during long customer service waits until a human representative is available. These additions make the core communication apps more powerful and user-friendly.
iOS 26: Improvements Across Other Apps
Beyond Messages and Phone, iOS 26 brings updates to several other apps. Apple Music now offers smarter playlist recommendations and improved navigation. Maps has been refined to simplify location sharing and route planning. The Camera app features a redesigned interface with adaptive controls, making it easier to capture the perfect shot. A new Games app acts as a central hub for Apple Arcade and Game Center, streamlining access to titles and achievements.
What are the steps to download iOS 26?
Step 1. Back Up Your iPhone- Use iCloud or Finder (Mac) / Apple Devices app (Windows) to back up your data.
Step 2. Encrypt the backup if you want to save health data.
Step 3. Free Up Space
Step 4. Go to Settings → General → iPhone Storage and remove unused apps or large files.
Step 5. Connect to Wi-Fi & Charge
Step 6. Ensure your device is plugged in or has enough battery.
Step 7. Install the Update
Step 8. Go to Settings → General → Software Update
Step 9. Tap Download and Install when iOS 26 appears.
iOS 26: Device Compatibility and End of Support
Apple confirmed that iOS 26 will not be available for the iPhone Xs, Xs Max, and XR, marking the end of support for these older models. However, a wide range of devices will receive the update, including the iPhone 11 through iPhone 16 Pro Max, the iPhone SE (2nd and 3rd generation), and the new iPhone 16e. This ensures that most users can enjoy the new features and design improvements without needing to upgrade immediately.
