The BRICS TimesiOS 26 Release Date: Apple has officially revealed when iPhones and Watches will get the update. Check compatible devices now.
Apple’s much-anticipated ‘Awe Dropping’ event on Tuesday was packed with big reveals. The California-based tech company showcased the new iPhone 17 series, Apple Watch Series 11, and the AirPods Pro 3 during its pre-recorded showcase. Along with the hardware launches, Apple also revealed when iOS 26 and watchOS 26 will officially roll out. iOS 26 will power the newly launched iPhone 17 series and a wide range of older iPhones, while watchOS 26 will run on the latest Watch Series 11 and other compatible models. Both platforms introduce fresh design upgrades, new features, and improved performance.
iOS 26 and watchOS 26 Release Date
During the iPhone 17 series launch, Apple confirmed that iOS 26 will be released as an OTA update on September 15. However, the company cautioned that a few features may not be accessible in all countries or languages because of local regulations.
Similarly, watchOS 26 will also begin rolling out globally on September 15. The update will support Apple Watch Series 6 or newer, Apple Watch SE (2nd generation) and later, along with all Apple Watch Ultra models. Pairing a compatible watch will require at least an iPhone 11 or newer device running iOS 26.
iOS 26 Compatible Devices List
Apple shared a detailed list of iPhones that will get the iOS 26 update. The new OS supports the iPhone 11 series or later, iPhone SE (2nd generation or newer), and the iPhone 16e.
Here is the complete list of supported devices:
iPhone 16e
iPhone 16
iPhone 16 Plus
iPhone 16 Pro
iPhone 16 Pro Max
iPhone 15
iPhone 15 Plus
iPhone 15 Pro
iPhone 15 Pro Max
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)
iOS 26 Features
The iOS 26 release date announcement also highlighted the exciting features coming with the update. Apple has introduced a new design language called Liquid Glass, which makes sliders, bars, buttons, menus, widgets, and app icons appear translucent, reflecting and refracting their background.
The update also brings Apple Intelligence tools, including Live Translation that instantly translates text and audio across apps like Messages, FaceTime, and Phone. Visual intelligence has been enhanced, allowing users to take screenshots and perform quick searches or actions on anything visible on the screen.
Other upgrades include improvements in CarPlay, Maps, Wallet, Apple Music, and a brand-new Apple Games app that organizes all games in one place.
watchOS 26 Features
Like iOS 26, watchOS 26 also introduces the Liquid Glass design across the Photos face, notifications, Smart Stack, widgets, and system controls. Two new watch faces, Flow and Exactograph, are included, while more than 20 existing faces have received updates.
A practical new gesture called wrist flick lets users dismiss alerts, silence alarms, or stop timers without touching the screen. Live Translation for Messages is also available on watchOS 26, but it requires pairing with an iPhone that supports Apple Intelligence.
watchOS 26 also comes with AI-driven Hold Assist and Call Screening. Hold Assist automatically manages customer care wait times, while Call Screening identifies unknown callers by collecting their details before passing the call through. Both features need an Apple Intelligence-supported iPhone to work.
