Apple has announced several exciting products at its recent ‘Awe Dropping’ event.
These include the iPhone 17 series, Apple Watch Series 11, and AirPods Pro 3.
Alongside the hardware, Apple also introduced its latest software updates – iOS 26 and watchOS 26.
These new operating systems are packed with fresh features, design changes, and performance improvements, and will work with the latest iPhone and Apple Watch models.
iOS 26 and watchOS 26 Release Date
Apple confirmed that the Over-The-Air (OTA) updates for iOS 26 and watchOS 26 will be available from September 15, 2025.
However, the company mentioned that some features may not be available in all countries, depending on local rules and regulations.
Compatibility of watchOS 26
To use watchOS 26, you need one of the following Apple Watch models:
Apple Watch Series 6 or newer
Apple Watch SE (2nd generation or newer)
All Apple Watch Ultra models
In addition, the watch must be paired with an iPhone 11 or newer, running on iOS 26.
iOS 26: Supported Devices and New Features
iPhones Compatible with iOS 26:
iOS 26 will be available for the following iPhone models:
iPhone 16e
iPhone 16 / 16 Plus / 16 Pro / 16 Pro Max
iPhone 15 / 15 Plus / 15 Pro / 15 Pro Max
iPhone 14 / 14 Plus / 14 Pro / 14 Pro Max
iPhone 13 / 13 mini / 13 Pro / 13 Pro Max
iPhone 12 / 12 mini / 12 Pro / 12 Pro Max
iPhone 11 / 11 Pro / 11 Pro Max
iPhone SE (2nd generation and later)
Key Features of iOS 26
Liquid Glass Design: A brand-new transparent user interface that gives the screen a light, modern look.
Menus, buttons, and icons appear more refined and attractive.
Apple Intelligence: Includes smart features like Live Translation, allowing real-time translation of both text and audio.
Visual Intelligence: Lets users take screenshots and perform actions directly from them.
App Improvements: Updates to CarPlay, Maps, Music, and Wallet for a smoother experience.
New Apple Games App: A dedicated app for games will also be introduced.
watchOS 26: What’s New?
watchOS 26 will also get the Liquid Glass Design, just like iOS 26, making the interface more visually appealing. Key updates include:
New Watch Faces: Two fresh options – Flow and Exactograph.
Smart Stack Improvements: Easier access to notifications, Control Center, and app navigation.
Watch Face Enhancements: Over 20 existing watch faces upd
