Apple iPhone 17 Event Set for September 9, iOS 26 Release Expected Shortly After
The highly anticipated Apple iPhone 17 event is just days away, officially confirmed for Tuesday, September 9. Following Apple’s typical schedule, the official public release of iOS 26 and iPadOS 26 is expected exactly one week after the event. These operating system updates promise significant upgrades, including the visually striking Liquid Glass interface, a redesigned Phone app, and new AI-powered features.
However, not all older iPhone models will be eligible for the upgrade. Unlike last year, Apple is dropping support for several devices released in 2018. If you own one of the following iPhones, you will not be able to download and install iOS 26: iPhone XR, iPhone XS, and iPhone XS Max.
The list of iPhones compatible with iOS 26 includes models from 2019 onward. This includes the iPhone 11 series and all subsequent models, including the iPhone SE (2nd generation or later), and the entire iPhone 12, 13, 14, 15, and 16 lineups. The upcoming iPhone 17 series will, of course, ship with iOS 26 pre-installed.
For iPad users, iPadOS 26 will be available for a wide range of models. Compatible devices include the 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), iPad (8th generation and later), and iPad mini (5th generation and later).
If your device is not on the compatibility list, you can continue using it on its current iOS version. Be aware that you will stop receiving critical security updates, which could leave your device vulnerable. Furthermore, some apps may eventually cease to function properly as they require newer OS versions, and you will miss out on all the new features.
The official rollout of iOS 26 is anticipated for Tuesday, September 16, aligning with Apple’s historical release pattern. A firm release date will be confirmed during the iPhone 17 event on September 9.
Key features generating excitement for iOS 26 include the Liquid Glass design. This overhaul introduces new app icon styles and a floating button aesthetic for a more cohesive look across Apple devices. The Phone app is receiving a major redesign, consolidating contacts, recent calls, and voicemails onto a single screen and introducing a helpful Hold Assist feature that alerts you when a call center agent returns to the line.
Live Translate is a powerful new AI tool that will allow for real-time translation during phone calls and text message conversations, breaking down language barriers. Finally, a new Polls feature in the Messages app will let group chat participants create polls, making it easier to make plans and decisions without cluttering the chat with endless messages.
The current iOS 26 public beta is available for users who want an early look at these features, though installing beta software always carries some inherent risk.