iOS 26: Essential Information About Apple’s Newest Update
Apple has formally launched iOS 26, bringing an array of new functionalities and enhancements to compatible devices. This update, together with iPadOS 26, showcases a revamped design and multiple improvements. Here’s all you need to know about iOS 26 and the compatibility of your device.
H2: Device Compatibility: Who’s Included and Who’s Excluded?
H3: iPhones No Longer Supported
As of 2025, Apple has ceased support for certain older devices. Specifically, iPhones that debuted in 2018, such as the iPhone XS Max, will not be compatible with iOS 26. This reflects a change from last year when no devices were excluded from the supported list.
H3: Compatible iPhones
If your iPhone was launched in 2019 or beyond, you’re in good shape. Below is a list of iPhones that can run iOS 26:
- iPhone SE (second generation or later)
- iPhone 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max
- iPhone 12 mini, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max
- iPhone 13 mini, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max
- iPhone 14 Plus, 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max
- iPhone 15 Plus, 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max
- iPhone 16 Plus, 16 Pro, 16 Pro Max, 16e
- iPhone 17 Pro, 17 Pro Max
- iPhone Air
H3: Compatible iPads
For iPad users, the following models are compatible with iPadOS 26:
- iPad Pro (M4)
- iPad Pro 12.9‑inch (3rd generation and later)
- iPad Pro 11‑inch (1st generation and later)
- iPad Air (3rd generation and later, including M2 and M3)
- iPad (8th generation and later, including A16)
- iPad mini (5th generation and later, including A17 Pro)
H2: Notable Features of iOS 26
H3: Liquid Glass Design
A prominent feature of iOS 26 is its Liquid Glass design, which transforms the home screen with new app icons and a floating button style. This design aims to create a more visually unified experience across Apple’s operating systems.
H3: Phone App Redesign
The Phone application now integrates contacts, recent calls, and voicemail messages into a single screen. A new functionality, Hold Assist, notifies you when an agent is available, eliminating the need to listen to hold music.
H3: Live Translate
With Live Translate, iOS 26 enables real-time translation during phone calls or text messages, making cross-language communication simpler.
H3: Polls in Messages
The Messages app now features a polling function for group chats, streamlining decisions like choosing a place to eat for group gatherings.
H3: Enhanced Lock Screen Options
iOS 26 provides more customizable options for the lock screen, including fresh clock designs, 3D wallpaper effects, additional widgets, and refined focus mode settings.
H3: Alarm Snooze Customization
Users can now personalize snooze intervals from one to 15 minutes, moving beyond the conventional 9-minute snooze duration.
H3: Camera App and Screenshot Improvements
The Camera app has become more user-friendly, with buttons and menus placed for convenience. A new feature notifies you if your lens is smudged. Screenshots now support reverse image search capabilities and integration with ChatGPT for queries related to images.
H2: Should You Upgrade?
H3: Security vs. New Features
If your device qualifies, you might be pondering whether to update to iOS 18.7 or iOS 26. While iOS 18.7 tackles security concerns, iOS 26 offers a multitude of new features. If you’re eager about the new design and capabilities, iOS 26 is a worthy upgrade. However, if you are wary of possible bugs, sticking with iOS 18.7 is a safer temporary option.
Conclusion
iOS 26 presents a fresh design along with numerous features to improve user experience. While some older devices are unsupported, those with compatible models can benefit from a variety of new functionalities. Whether you focus on security updates or the latest features, Apple’s newest OS has something to offer everyone.
Q&A
Q1: What is the Liquid Glass design in iOS 26?
A1: Liquid Glass is a new design style in iOS 26 that reimagines the home screen with updated app icons and a floating button design, fostering a more unified visual experience.
Q2: Which iPhones are no longer compatible with iOS 26?
A2: iPhones that were released in 2018, including the iPhone XS Max, are not compatible with iOS 26.
Q3: Can I continue to use my older iPhone if it doesn’t support iOS 26?
A3: Yes, you can keep using your older iPhone, but you may lose out on security updates and new features, and some apps could become incompatible over time.
Q4: What are the new capabilities in the Phone app with iOS 26?
A4: The Phone app now merges contacts, recent calls, and voicemail messages onto a single screen and features Hold Assist, which alerts you when an agent becomes available.
Q5: How does Live Translate function in iOS 26?
A5: Live Translate facilitates real-time translation during phone calls or text messages, enhancing communication with speakers of different languages.
Q6: What alarm customization options are available in iOS 26?
A6: Users can set snooze durations from one to 15 minutes, departing from the typical 9-minute snooze configuration.
