Apple will release iOS 26 and iPadOS 26 on Monday, September 15, and both new operating systems bring several new features to iPhones and iPads, including a Liquid Glass design overhaul, a new Camera app, new features for other iPhone and iPad apps, and more. But, will your device be able to run the new software and will you be able to take advantage of all of the new features?
First, let take a look at which devices are compatible with the new software.
iOS 26 is compatible with the iPhone 11 series and newer, meaning the following models are supported:
Naturally, Apple’s new iPhone 17, iPhone Air, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max are also compatible with iOS 26 and can can handle all of the new features. When the new devices arrive next week, iOS 26 will come pre-installed.
iPadOS 26 supports the following iPad models:
Again, not all iPads will support all of iPadOS 26’s features. Apple Intelligence requires iPad models with M1 or later chips, and the 7th generation iPad mini with A17 Pro chip.
When iOS 26 and iPadOS 26 become available on Monday September 15 (traditionally around 10:00 a.m. Pacific Time/1:00 p.m. Eastern Time), make sure your device has been backed up recently, and is fully charged before you start the installation process over WiFi. Get a cup of coffee and maybe a snack, as the update may take some time to complete. You may even want to wait until later in the day or even the next day to update your device, as the Apple servers will probably be hit hard at first.
To check for the update, go to “Settings” -> “General” -> “Software Update,” and wait a moment for your device to contact Apple’s servers. You can also opt for the update to be installed while you sleep with your iPhone or iPad on a charger on your nightstand.