Apple Unveils iOS 26: New Features, Supported Devices, and Download Instructions

Apple has released iOS 26, its latest operating system update, with a new design language called Liquid Glass, expanded AI-powered tools under "Apple Intelligence," and stronger privacy controls. The update is available for a wide range of iPhones, starting from the iPhone 11 to the newly launched models. Users with newer iPhones and those who rely on privacy features will get the most out of the update. Owners of older models may not see a big performance boost and may want to wait for bug fixes before upgrading.

Apple has unveiled iOS 26, its latest operating system update, featuring a new design language called Liquid Glass, expanded AI-powered tools under "Apple Intelligence," and stronger privacy controls. The update is available for a wide range of iPhones, starting from the iPhone 11 to the newly launched models. Users with newer iPhones and those who rely on privacy features will get the most out of the update. Owners of older models may not see a big performance boost and may want to wait for bug fixes before upgrading.

Key Features of iOS 26

1. Liquid Glass Design: The most visible change in iOS 26 is the Liquid Glass design, which adds transparency and sheen to menus and icons. Elements move dynamically as users scroll or switch between apps, while icons can be made completely transparent to show wallpaper underneath. Apple has built in accessibility controls to adjust transparency, contrast, and motion for users who find the effects distracting Apple rolls out iOS 26 update with new design and features^[1].

2. Live Translation: iOS 26 introduces live language translation for Messages, FaceTime, and phone calls. Once language packs are downloaded, conversations can be translated in real time without sending data to the cloud. Currently, Apple supports English, Spanish, French, German, and Portuguese, with more languages promised later this year Apple rolls out iOS 26 update with new design and features^[1].

3. Hold Assist and Spam Filters: The update includes Hold Assist, which automatically saves a user’s place in line when put on hold and calls back when a representative answers. Spam filters automatically filter out texts from unknown senders and calls from unfamiliar numbers, reducing scams and robocalls Apple rolls out iOS 26 update with new design and features^[1].

4. Visual Intelligence: This feature offers instant AI search or summaries of saved images, making it easier to find and understand photos Apple rolls out iOS 26 update with new design and features^[1].

5. Simplified Photos App: The Photos app has been simplified, separating the Library and Collections views for easier navigation Apple rolls out iOS 26 update with new design and features^[1].

Compatibility and Release Date

iOS 26 is compatible with iPhones, iPads, and Apple Watches. The software update is available for compatible iPhones, iPads, and Apple Watches starting on Monday, September 15 Apple's iOS 26 update is coming. See key features, compatible devices.^[2].

Conclusion

While iOS 26 brings significant improvements, such as the Liquid Glass design and expanded AI tools, it remains to be seen how these changes will impact the overall user experience. Apple has promised more advanced features, including a more sophisticated version of Siri, but has not provided a release timeline. Owners of older models may want to wait for further updates and bug fixes before upgrading.

References

Apple rolls out iOS 26 update with new design and features^[1] https://www.livenowfox.com/news/apple-ios-26-update-features
Apple's iOS 26 update is coming. See key features, compatible devices.^[2] https://www.statesmanjournal.com/story/tech/2025/09/14/apple-ios-26-release-date-compatible-iphones/86110507007/