Attention, Apple enthusiasts! The buzz is around iOS 26, and it’s time to get your devices ready for some thrilling updates coming this fall.

One of the standout features? A stunning new Liquid Glass design that looks set to be the most significant visual transformation Apple has introduced in years. After two weeks of testing, we can say this update will redefine how your home screen looks with fresh new app icons and a cohesive feel across all iOS applications.

Excited to jump in? The public beta of iOS 26 is now available, but be cautious—beta software always comes with a bit of risk.

Is Your iPhone Compatible?

Unlike last year, Apple is trimming down the eligible iPhone list for iOS 26. The iPhone 8 and iPhone X models lost support in 2023, and now it’s the turn of three models released in 2018—namely, the iPhone XR, iPhone XS, and iPhone XS Max. If you own any of these, you’ll miss out on the latest and greatest.

But don’t despair! If your device is 2019 or newer, you’re in luck. Here’s the full compatibility list for iOS 26:

✅ Compatible iPhones:

- iPhone SE (2nd generation or later) - iPhone 11 - iPhone 11 Pro - iPhone 11 Pro Max - iPhone 12 - iPhone 12 mini - iPhone 12 Pro - iPhone 12 Pro Max - iPhone 13 - iPhone 13 mini - iPhone 13 Pro - iPhone 13 Pro Max - iPhone 14 - iPhone 14 Plus - iPhone 14 Pro - iPhone 14 Pro Max - iPhone 15 - iPhone 15 Plus - iPhone 15 Pro - iPhone 15 Pro Max - iPhone 16e - iPhone 16 - iPhone 16 Plus - iPhone 16 Pro - iPhone 16 Pro Max

👀 Thinking of Holding Onto an Older Model?

If you don’t plan to upgrade, keep in mind that using an unsupported iPhone may mean missing out on crucial security updates, making your device more vulnerable to threats. Certain apps may also become unusable if they require a more recent version of iOS. Plus, you’ll miss all the exciting features that iOS 26 brings!

🗓️ When Can You Expect iOS 26?

Apple traditionally unveils its new iOS around mid-September, right before the new iPhones hit the shelves. Last year, iOS 18 launched on September 16, so mark your calendars!

✨ Exciting Features of iOS 26!

- **Liquid Glass Design**: A complete visual overhaul for your home screen with redesigned app icons and floating buttons. - **Revamped Phone App**: A streamlined way to view your contacts, recent calls, and voicemails all in one place along with a new Hold Assist feature to alert you when an agent is on the line, cutting through the hold music. - **Live Translate**: Real-time translation for smoother conversations across languages, directly through calls and texts. - **Polls in Messages App**: Create polls in group chats to decide plans without the ensuing message flood.

Stay tuned for more updates and get ready for an exciting future with iOS 26!