Kerry Wan
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Apple announced big changes to the iPhone's operating system as part of iOS 26 during WWDC 2025 in June -- and it's now widely available for iPhone users. After debuting a highly anticipated iPhone 17 lineup earlier this month, including the thinnest iPhone ever with the 17 Air, Apple also confirmed that the general release of iOS 26 would happen on Monday, Sept. 15.
Most iPhone users will receive a free software update to upgrade to iOS 26, though availability may vary depending on carrier, region, and local regulations. iOS 26 is the successor of iOS 18, the current widely available operating system for iPhones. Instead of launching iOS 19 sequentially to iOS 18, Apple rebranded its OS versions to match the year when users will use them the most.
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In this case, iOS 26 has already launched for general availability, but many feature updates will continue to roll out through 2026. Here's how to install iOS 26 on your compatible iPhone.
How to install iOS 26
What you need: You'll need a compatible iPhone running iOS 16.5 or later. Since not all iPhones support iOS 26, you'll also need a model newer than iPhone 11.
1. Access General in your iPhone Settings
Go to your iPhone's Settings and select General.
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Show more2. Go to Software Update in Settings
Within General, tap on Software Update. If iOS 26 is available for your iPhone, you'll see the option to download it here.
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Show more3. Agree to install iOS 26
After you agree to download and install iOS 26, you can wait for your iPhone to finish installing the update. Then you're ready to enjoy your Liquid Glass interface, Preview app, and more Apple Intelligence integrations.
Show moreFAQs
When was iOS 26 released?
iOS 26 was made widely available as a free software update on Sept. 15, 2025. The developer beta was released during WWDC in June 2025, while the public beta was released in July.
Which iPhones are compatible with iOS 26?
Apple removed the iPhone XR and XS from its list of supported devices with iOS 26, so any iPhone 11 or newer is compatible with the new operating system, including the iPhone SE.
Also: Every iPhone model that can be updated to iOS 26 (and which ones don't support it)
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