There’s a major update launching later this year that will bring a swathe of new features and shiny upgrades to millions of iPhones. iOS 26 is one of the biggest releases in a while, not only getting a surprise name (we were expecting iOS 19 instead) but also adding a new look to the home screen along with changes to messaging, Apple’s CarPlay service, Apple Music, Maps, and Wallet.
It also adds more ways to customise the look, gets smart features such as Call Screening and even lets you add unique backgrounds to your chats.
iOS 26 will become available in the autumn, but some phones running the current iOS 18 software won’t be able to upgrade. Every so often, devices drop off the list of compatibility, and this year it’s the turn of the iPhone XS, XS Max, and iPhone XR.
“New software features will be available this autumn as a free software update for iPhone 11 and later,” Apple confirmed.
Sadly, if you own one of those three devices mentioned above and you want iOS 26 when it’s released later in the year, you will need to upgrade to at least an iPhone 11. Those wanting the very best experience might also want to consider getting an iPhone 16 as these call makers also get access to Apple Intelligence which can retouch photos, rewrite emails and tidy your inbox automatically.
Right now, there’s no launch date for iOS 26 but, if history repeats itself, we’d expect to see released to iPhones in September.
“iOS 26 shines with the gorgeous new design and meaningful improvements to the features users rely on every day, making iPhone even more helpful,” said Craig Federighi, Apple’s senior vice president of Software Engineering.
“Experiences are more expressive and personal, from the Lock Screen and Home Screen, to new capabilities across Phone and Messages that help users focus on the connections that matter most. And with powerful new Apple Intelligence capabilities integrated across the system, users can get things done easier than ever.”