• Source:JND
Add as a preferred

All eyes may have been on the iPhone 17 range at Apple’s September keynote but perhaps nothing was as important, yet received so little attention, than the launch of iOS 26. Apple’s new mobile OS, launching 15 September 2025: the world is about to witness a wide selection of design changes, AI-powered enhancements and app updates.

iOS 26 and watchOS 26 Release Timeline

watchOS 26 is being liberated into the wild along with iOS 26. The smartwatch OS update is compatible with the Apple Watch Series 6 and later, including all Ultra models. To run watchOS 26, users will require an iPhone 11 or later with iOS 26.

This simultaneous update keeps the Apple universe in sync—top to bottom, phone to watch.

Liquid Glass: A Bold New Visual Language

The most noticeable change in iOS 26 is the addition of its Liquid Glass design language. Apple has re-designed the interface to make it more immersive and more alive, including:

 

  • Semi-opaque like panels for lock screens, widgets and system apps.
  • I love the fluid animation that still gives a sense of responsiveness and depth.
  • A sleeker look with a touch or personalization, and without sacrificing usability.

 

The biggest visual change to iOS since iOS 7Liquid Glass While some misunderstand the color and depth changes introduced in Liquid Glass, I personally believe it’s a defining moment for how iOS feels day-to-day.

ALSO READ: AIIMS Launches AI-Powered Navigation App “Disha” To Guide Patients And Visitors

Apple Intelligence: AI Comes to iOS

At the center of iOS 26 is Apple Intelligence, Apple’s version of an AI integration layer built directly into its OS.

Key features include:

 

  • Smart Summaries: Condense notifications, messages, and emails.
  • Context-Aware Actions: Suggest quick actions based on what you’re doing.
  • Real-Time Translation: Integrated across apps for seamless multilingual communication.

 

However, Apple Intelligence requires A17 Bionic or later chipsets, restricting availability to:

 

  • iPhone 15 Pro / Pro Max
  • Entire iPhone 16 lineup
  • New iPhone 16e

 

This move both showcases Apple’s AI ambitions and strategically nudges users toward newer hardware.

Messages and Phone App Overhaul

Apple has retooled its core communication apps:

Messages

 

  • Custom chat backgrounds and conversation themes.
  • In-chat polls for group decision-making.
  • Typing indicators in group chats.
  • Apple Cash integration for seamless payments inside chats.

 

Phone

 

  • AI Call Screening to auto-block spam or unwanted numbers.
  • Hold Assist that waits on calls for you and alerts when a human picks up.

 

 

These upgrades make iOS 26 a smarter communication hub, balancing productivity and personalisation.

Updates to Everyday Apps

iOS 26 also refines Apple’s wider app ecosystem:

 

  • Apple Music: Smarter playlist curation and streamlined navigation.
  • Apple Maps: Simplified location sharing and improved route planning.
  • Camera App: New adaptive interface for more intuitive controls.
  • Games Hub: All the action in one place with Apple Arcade and Game Center including achievements and social features.

 

 

These and other changes improve its daily usability, so it’s not just a facelift but something that makes a difference in how you use your phone.

ALSO READ: Try Instagram Viral Saree Trend As AI Revives 90s Bollywood Fashion: How To Turn Your Image Into Nano Banana AI Saree Trend?

Device Compatibility and End of Support

Apple confirmed that iOS 26 drops support for iPhone Xs, Xs Max, and XR, marking the end of the line for 2018-era devices.

Compatible models include:

 

  • iPhone 11 through iPhone 16 Pro Max
  • iPhone SE (2nd and 3rd gen)
  • iPhone 16e

 

This ensures that a broad base of users—from midrange iPhones to flagships—can benefit from the new update.

For the Early Adopters: Beta Access

Users eager to test iOS 26 early can join the Apple Developer Program for free and enable beta updates in settings. Apple stresses backing up devices first, as betas may carry stability issues.

Final Thoughts

With Liquid Glass visuals, AI-powered Apple Intelligence, and substantial app improvements, iOS 26 isn’t just an incremental update—it’s Apple’s boldest iOS redesign in a decade. The update modernizes the look, doubles down on AI, and integrates smart tools into the apps people rely on most.

As iOS 26 rolls out tomorrow, it will not only power the brand-new iPhone 17 lineup, but also breathe new life into millions of existing iPhones worldwide.