Live Azerbaijan
Release Timeline
- Announced: June 9, 2025 (WWDC)
- Developer Beta: June 9, 2025
- Public Beta: Early July 2025
- Official Release: Expected around September 16, 2025
✅ iPhones Compatible with iOS 26
iOS 26 is available for iPhones running A13 Bionic chip or newer. Here’s the full list of compatible devices:
- iPhone 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max
- iPhone SE (2nd Gen, 2020)
- iPhone 12, 12 mini, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max
- iPhone 13, 13 mini, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max
- iPhone 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max
- iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max
- iPhone 16 series
- Upcoming iPhone 17 series
❌ No longer supported:
- iPhone XR
- iPhone XS
- iPhone XS Max
(These models use the older A12 Bionic chip)
🧠 Apple Intelligence Support (AI Features)
AI-powered features (Apple Intelligence) require at least the A17 Pro chip, found only on:
- iPhone 15 Pro / 15 Pro Max
- iPhone 16 series and newer
These features include on-device AI like smart summarization, image generation, voice intelligence, and real-time translation.
⚙️ Minimum Requirements Checklist
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Processor | A13 Bionic or newer |
| AI Feature Support | A17 Pro or newer |
| Storage Space | At least 8GB free recommended |
| Battery Level | 50% or above (or connect to charger) |
| Internet | Stable Wi-Fi connection |
| Backup | Full backup via iCloud or iTunes/Finder before updating (recommended) |
🌟 Key New Features in iOS 26
- Liquid Glass UI – A fresh translucent design with 3D wallpapers and floating elements
- Apple Intelligence – Smart summarizations, contextual Siri, and image editing
- Adaptive Power Mode – AI-based power optimization for longer battery life
- Revamped Apps – Safari, Messages (with polls), and Phone get major updates
- New Game Center App – All games in one place, with achievements and cloud saves
- Smarter Wallet & Maps – Improved transit tracking and smart suggestions
🔧 How to Install iOS 26 (Beta)
- Backup your iPhone – Using iCloud or Finder/iTunes (archived backup recommended)
- Join Apple Beta Software Program – Go to Settings > General > Software Update > Beta Updates
- Ensure device readiness – Minimum 8GB free storage, 50%+ battery, and Wi-Fi connection
- Download and install – iOS 26 Developer or Public Beta
Note: Beta versions can be buggy — avoid installing on your primary device.
🔁 Quick Summary: Should You Upgrade?
| Your iPhone Model | iOS 26 Compatible | AI Features Supported |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone 11 or newer | ✅ Yes | ❌ No (unless Pro models with A17+) |
| iPhone XR, XS, XS Max | ❌ No | ❌ No |
| iPhone 15 Pro / newer | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
