Apple will release iOS 26 later today, and here’s when you can download it.
It’s a huge day for iPhone owners. Apple has confirmed that its all-new iOS 26 operating system will go live later today with it bringing a swathe of new features and shiny upgrades to these popular smartphones. iOS 26 comes loaded with updates such as a refreshed Liquid Glass apearance, clever new lock screen, live translation for help when travelling abroad and full spam protection which can block annoying cold calls automatically.
There are also improvements to Messages, Mail and Photos along with the Maps app that now understands your preferred routes.
It’s another blockbuster release from Apple, but when and how can you download it?
Although Apple has confirmed that iOS 26 will arrive today, September 15, the US technology firm never says what time an actual launch will take place.
However, Mirror Online has been following iOS releases for over 10 years, and they almost always appear at around 6pm BST.
To get it on your device it’s a good idea to be connected to Wi-Fi as iOS 26 is likely to be a very large file size. Once available, it can be found by heading to the Settings > General > Software Update.
It’s worth noting that everyone will be attempting to get iOS 26 tonight, and that means it may take longer to install than if you wait until tomorrow morning.
Another thing to remember is that not all iPhones can get iOS 26 with three models losing support for the latest updates.
These include the iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max and iPhone XR
YOU CAN SEE THE FULL LIST OF COMPATIBLE iPHONE MODELS BELOW
iPhone 16 Pro/Pro Max • iPhone 16 Plus • iPhone 16 • iPhone 16e iPhone 15 Pro/Pro Max • iPhone 15 Plus • iPhone 15 • iPhone 14 • iPhone 14 Plus • iPhone 14 Pro • iPhone 14 Pro Max • iPhone 13 • iPhone 13 mini • iPhone 13 Pro • iPhone 13 Pro Max • iPhone 12 • iPhone 12 mini • iPhone 12 Pro • iPhone 12 Pro Max • iPhone 11 • iPhone 11 Pro • iPhone 11 Pro Max • iPhone SE (2nd generation and later).
Speaking about the release, Craig Federighi, Apple’s senior vice president of Software Engineering, said: “iOS 26 shines with the gorgeous new design and meaningful improvements to the features users rely on every day, making iPhone even more helpful,.
“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.”