iOS 26 Release Date and Time in India: Apple has officially announced that its next major software update, iOS 26, will be released to users from 15 September 2025. In India, this update will be available around 10:30 PM IST. This update is considered one of the most significant by the company, featuring a new design, artificial intelligence (AI)-based features, and several smart tools. Let's explore the top features, supported devices, and the easy installation process.
The biggest attraction of iOS 26 is its new Liquid Glass Design. iPhone apps, icons, and controls will now appear transparent and glass-like. The clock on the lock screen automatically adjusts according to the wallpaper, and notifications are displayed in a way that doesn't obscure the main part of the photo. The home screen will also feature new icon styles, including light, dark, colour tints, and transparent looks.
iOS 26 includes new AI-powered tools. Live translation will facilitate live translation on messages, calls, and FaceTime. Visual intelligence allows you to create calendar entries, reminders, or notes directly from photos or emails. Additionally, Genmoji and Image Playground will enable you to create custom emojis of friends or family. Shortcuts can now easily perform tasks such as summarising text or creating images through automation.
iOS 26 offers several new tools that simplify and streamline communication. Call screening will record the caller's name and purpose before answering calls from unknown numbers. The Hold Assist feature keeps the phone on the line instead of making you wait for customer care, notifying you when an agent connects. Furthermore, group chat polls allow for decision-making through direct voting within chats.
Apple Music will now include AutoMix, which smoothly mixes songs like a DJ set. Maps will proactively provide traffic alerts by recognising your daily commute. The new Games app will display friends' gaming activity and offer the opportunity to challenge scores.
iOS 26 has enhanced accessibility features. It will now offer improved Braille support and new visual cues to reduce motion sickness. The Photos app includes Library and Collection tabs, along with 3D effects. AirPods will now allow for easier remote control of the camera and improved audio recording.
This update will be available on iPhone 11 and later models, as well as iPhone SE (2nd generation and later). This includes the iPhone 12, 13, 14, 15, 16 and 17 series, and the new iPhone Air.
| Series | Supported Devices |
|---|---|
| iPhone 17 | iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone 17 Pro Max, iPhone Air |
| iPhone 16 | iPhone 16e, iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, iPhone 16 Pro Max |
| iPhone 15 | iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max |
| iPhone 14 | iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, iPhone 14 Pro, iPhone 14 Pro Max |
| iPhone 13 | iPhone 13, iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 13 Pro, iPhone 13 Pro Max |
| iPhone 12 | iPhone 12, iPhone 12 mini, iPhone 12 Pro, iPhone 12 Pro Max |
| iPhone 11 | iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro, iPhone 11 Pro Max |
| iPhone SE | iPhone SE (2nd generation and later) |
Note: Some features, such as live translation and AI tools, will not be available in every country or language initially. They will be rolled out gradually.
