Tim Cook and his Apple team are rolling out iOS 26 this month. It feels like one of those updates that mixes style with small but useful features.
What new features has this long-awaited IOS version has brought to iPhone users?
- Liquid Glass Design
The biggest change is the new “Liquid Glass” look. The whole system feels shinier, with frosty panels, floating menus, and a fresh, modern vibe. - Smarter Calls
The Phone app can now screen unknown callers. It asks them who they are and why they’re calling. Then it gives you the choice to pick up or ignore. - Live Translation & Smart Tools
Built-in live translation now works in apps like Phone, Messages, and FaceTime. Apple has added other little smart tools to make everyday use smoother. - Games App & Messages Tweaks
There’s a brand-new Games app that puts all your mobile games in one spot. Messages now has fun extras like polls, custom chat backgrounds, and better group features. - Adaptive Power Mode
A new power mode automatically adjusts performance. It activates when your battery is running low. This feature is mainly for newer iPhone models. - Visual Touches
The lock screen clock changes to match the space around it. Wallpapers move subtly when you tilt your phone. Overall, the phone feels more alive.
Are these features great? Do they add any value?
Of course, they bring so much value to iPhone users. These features might also attract more Android users. I have filtered some of the merits these features may give us.
- The Liquid Glass design makes the iPhone look modern and premium.
- Call screening helps cut down on annoying spam calls.
- Live translation and smarter built-in tools mean less need for extra apps.
- The new Games app is handy for keeping everything in one place.
- Adaptive Power Mode could save you in those “low battery” moments.
They can sometimes be “Not-So-Great” too.
- The design might feel too shiny or hard to read for some people.
- Some of the cool features only work on newer iPhones, leaving older users behind.
- A lot of the changes are refinements rather than big game-changers.
So, who gets iOS 26?
iOS 26 supports current iPhones from the newest model down to iPhone 11. Additionally, it also supports iPhone SE (2nd gen) and newer models. Below is the full supported lineup:
- iPhone 17 / 17 Pro / 17 Pro Max / iPhone Air
- iPhone 16 series (16e, 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, 16 Pro Max)
- iPhone 15 series (15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max)
- iPhone 14 series (14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max)
- iPhone 13 series (13, 13 mini, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max)
- iPhone 12 series (12, 12 mini, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max)
- iPhone 11 series (11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max)
- iPhone SE (2nd gen and newer)
(Short version: if you have an iPhone 11 or newer, or an iPhone SE 2nd gen+, you should be able to install iOS 26 when it drops.)
What this means for you
If you buy an iPhone 17, it will already run iOS 26.
If you have a supported older iPhone, you’ll get the update on Sept 15. Install it when you’re ready.
Some features may work best on newer models. However, most people will notice the new look right away. They will also see the small quality-of-life upgrades instantly.
