Apple unveiled iOS 26 at WWDC 2025 with a major visual overhaul, new AI-powered features, and a list of supported iPhones. Check if your iPhone is compatible.
Apple has officially introduced iOS 26 at WWDC 2025, showcasing a major visual refresh and deeper integration of AI-powered features. This update marks the biggest design shift since iOS 7, with a new “Liquid Glass” interface and system-wide enhancements through Apple Intelligence. Set to arrive later this year, iOS 26 will be a free update for eligible iPhones.
iOS 26: Major Design Overhaul and Smarter Experience
iOS 26 brings a modern, fluid interface built around the new “Liquid Glass” aesthetic, giving apps, widgets, and system elements a more dynamic and layered feel. The Lock Screen now features a time display that adjusts with background images, while the Home Screen supports clear-style app icons and adaptive widgets.
Core apps like Safari, Camera, Apple Music, and Photos have received refined designs for easier navigation and content-first presentation. CarPlay also gets new widgets, Live Activities, and a more immersive call interface, making for a seamless driving experience.
Apple Intelligence at the Center of iOS 26
Apple Intelligence adds smarter features throughout iOS 26, such as:
- Live Translation in Messages, FaceTime, and Phone
- Genmoji and Image Playground for personalized visuals and emojis
- Smarter Siri shortcuts
- Visual intelligence for interacting with on-screen content
- Hold Assist and Call Screening in the Phone app
- Intelligent writing tools and contextual suggestions in supported apps
These features rely on on-device processing for speed and privacy, and some tools are limited to newer iPhone models.
iPhones Compatible with iOS 26
Here’s the full list of iPhones that will support the iOS 26 update:
- iPhone 16e
- iPhone 16 and 16 Plus
- iPhone 16 Pro and 16 Pro Max
- iPhone 15 and 15 Plus
- iPhone 15 Pro and 15 Pro Max
- iPhone 14 and 14 Plus
- iPhone 14 Pro and 14 Pro Max
- iPhone 13 and 13 mini
- iPhone 13 Pro and 13 Pro Max
- iPhone 12 and 12 mini
- iPhone 12 Pro and 12 Pro Max
- iPhone 11
- iPhone 11 Pro and 11 Pro Max
- iPhone SE (2nd generation and newer)
iPhones That Will Not Receive iOS 26
These older models will not support the new update:
- iPhone XR
- iPhone XS and XS Max
Also Read: iPhone 17 Air May Launch Without USB-C: Apple’s Thinnest, Portless iPhone Yet
Apple Intelligence Hardware Requirements
While iOS 26 will run on the devices listed above, many Apple Intelligence features will require the latest hardware. These include:
- iPhone 15 Pro and 15 Pro Max
- iPhone 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, 16 Pro Max
- iPhone 16e
Only these devices will be able to fully utilize features like Genmoji, AI-powered image tools, and deeper app intelligence.
iOS 26 Beta Availability and Rollout
Developers can access iOS 26 starting today through the Apple Developer Program. A public beta will be made available next month at beta.apple.com, with a stable release scheduled for fall 2025.
Additional Updates in iOS 26
iOS 26 also introduces:
- A new Apple Games app with deeper Apple Arcade integration.
- Enhanced AirPods features, including studio-quality audio recording and remote camera control.
- Improved Apple Wallet with installment payment and travel integration.
- Updates to CarPlay Ultra for unified control between iPhone and vehicle.
- Expanded privacy and accessibility features including Braille Access, Background Sounds, and advanced parental controls.
