September 15, 2025, Apple has officially released iOS 26 worldwide, bringing a fresh design overhaul and several powerful features to iPhone users. The update went live today at 10 a.m. Pacific Time alongside iPadOS 26, macOS Tahoe, watchOS 26, tvOS 26, and visionOS 26.
The biggest highlight is the Liquid Glass design language, giving iOS a translucent, fluid look with layered depth and lighting effects. Users also get Live Translation, enabling real-time text and audio translation across apps like Messages, FaceTime, and Phone.
Apple has added several practical tools: Call Screening to filter unknown numbers, Hold Assist that waits on hold for you, and an Adaptive Power Mode designed to extend battery life intelligently. Messaging gets group chat polls, custom backgrounds, and improved media sharing. CarPlay has also been refreshed with Liquid Glass visuals, compact call views, and widgets.
Other upgrades include a Preview app on iPhone for editing PDFs and images, redesigned Photos with Collections and spatial views, and enhanced accessibility features.
Not every device will get the new update support starting from iPhone 11 and iPhone SE (2nd gen) onward, dropping older models like the iPhone XR and XS.
Apple advises users to back up their devices and ensure storage and battery before updating. iOS 26 is available for free and rolling out globally today.
