Apple iOS 26 release today: India release time, supported iPhone models, how to install, and all that you need to know

Apple’s most significant mobile operating system update since iOS 7 will be launching today, September 15, bringing the biggest design overhaul for iOS in over a decade, fundamentally changing how users interact with their iPhones while maintaining the familiar iOS experience. Apple describes Liquid Glass as “a new translucent material that reflects and refracts its surroundings, bringing greater focus to content, and delivering a new level of vitality across controls, navigation, app icons, widgets, and more.” In addition to the new design, iOS 26 also introduces a multiple features, like Call Screening, Live Translation, AutoMix, and more. Here’s everything you need to know about iOS 26.

Apple iOS 26: India release time

The update is expected to roll out at 10:30 PM IST in India, following Apple’s traditional release schedule of 10 AM Pacific Time.

Apple iOS 26: All the new features

iOS 26 introduces Call Screening and Hold Assist features to the Phone app. Call Screening asks unknown callers for their name and reason for calling, while Hold Assist automatically waits on hold and notifies users when an agent is ready. The update also adds Adaptive Power Mode on iPhone 15 Pro models and newer, making performance adjustments to extend battery life.The Messages app receives significant upgrades, including conversation backgrounds, polls in group chats, Apple Cash in group conversations, typing indicators, and an “Add Contact” button. Messages can now screen unknown senders, moving them to a dedicated folder where users can mark numbers as known or delete them.Apple Intelligence powers new capabilities like Live Translation integrated into Messages, FaceTime, and Phone apps, translating text and audio on the fly using on-device models. Visual intelligence extends to the iPhone screen, allowing users to search and take action on anything they’re viewing across apps.A new AutoMix feature in Apple Music seamlessly transitions between songs like a DJ, while CarPlay receives Liquid Glass design updates and new compact call views. iOS 26 also extends Apple’s Preview app from Mac to iPhone for PDF and image editing.

Apple iOS 26: Supported iPhone models

iOS 26 is compatible with iPhone 11 series and newer devices, encompassing models released from 2019 onward. The complete compatibility list includes:

• iPhone 17 Series (ships with iOS 26)
• iPhone Air (ships with iOS 26)
• iPhone 16 Series
• iPhone 15 Series
• iPhone 14 Series
• iPhone SE (2022)
• iPhone 13 Series
• iPhone 12 Series
• iPhone 11 Series

Apple Intelligence features remain limited to iPhone 15 Pro and later models, iPhone 16 series, and the new iPhone 17 lineup. These advanced AI capabilities require the enhanced processing power found in Apple’s latest chipsets.

Apple iOS 26: Step-by-step installation guide

Installing iOS 26 requires following these essential preparation steps before downloading:

Before installation:

• Back up iPhone data to iCloud or Google Cloud to protect against potential installation issues
• Ensure sufficient storage space (typically 3-5GB required)
• Connect to stable Wi-Fi network
• Charge device to at least 50% battery

Installation steps:

1. Open Settings on your iPhone
2. Navigate to General → Software Update
3. The iPhone will automatically check for pending updates
4. Tap Download & Install, read terms and conditions, then agree. iOS 26 will download and install automatically

The download and installation process typically takes 30-60 minutes depending on internet speed and device model.



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