iOS 26 update is coming soon - how to download it (and which iPhones support it)

Apple CEO Tim Cook says iOS 26 has been the most popular beta ever, and the general release is only days away. Here's how you can install it.

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Apple announced big changes to the iPhone's operating system as part of iOS 26 during WWDC 2025 in June -- and its widespread release is now only days away. After debuting a highly anticipated iPhone 17 lineup this week, including the thinnest iPhone ever with the 17 Air, Apple also confirmed that the general release of iOS 26 will happen on Monday, Sept. 15. 

Most iPhone users will receive a free software update to upgrade to iOS 26 starting on Sept. 15, though availability may vary depending on carrier, region, and local regulations. iOS 26 is the successor of iOS 18, the current widely available operating system for ...