Key Points
- iOS 26 introduces Liquid Glass design, a revamped Phone app, Live Translate, and built‑in polls for Messages.
- All iPhones announced in 2019 or later, including the second‑generation iPhone SE, are eligible for the beta.
- iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus, and iPhone X (released in 2018) are not compatible with iOS 26.
- Compatible iPads start with iPad Pro 12.9‑inch (3rd gen), iPad Pro 11‑inch (1st gen), iPad Air (3rd gen), iPad (8th gen), and iPad mini (5th gen).
- Apple usually rolls out iOS updates in mid‑September, ahead of its annual iPhone launch.
- Non‑compatible devices will miss future security updates and new app features.
Overview of iOS 26
Apple is preparing to launch iOS 26, a major software refresh that introduces a new visual style called Liquid Glass, a redesigned Phone application, real‑time language translation, and integrated polls for group messaging. The update will be available as a public beta, allowing eligible users to explore these features ahead of the official rollout.
Device Compatibility
The beta is limited to devices that meet Apple’s hardware criteria. All iPhones announced in 2019 or later qualify, which includes the second‑generation iPhone SE and any newer iPhone model. Conversely, three iPhone models released in 2018—iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus, and iPhone X—are not eligible for the beta or the final release.
iPad eligibility mirrors the iPhone list. Compatible iPads are:
- 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)
- iPad mini (5th generation and later)
Any iPad released after these models will also be supported.
Key Features of iOS 26
Liquid Glass redesign gives the home screen a sleek, translucent aesthetic, updating app icons and system widgets. The Phone app now consolidates contacts, recent calls, and voicemail on a single screen and adds a Hold Assist notification to reduce wait‑time frustration.
Live Translate enables real‑time conversation translation for calls and text messages, breaking language barriers directly within iOS. Additionally, the Messages app now supports built‑in polls, simplifying group decision‑making without third‑party tools.
Rollout Timing and Upgrade Considerations
Apple typically releases its major iOS updates in mid‑September, a few weeks before the launch of its new iPhone lineup. Users with compatible devices can download the public beta now, though they should be aware that beta software carries a degree of risk.
Devices that cannot run iOS 26 will miss out on security patches and new app capabilities, potentially exposing them to security vulnerabilities and compatibility issues with future apps.
Looking Ahead
While the exact feature list may evolve through beta testing, the core updates—visual redesign, enhanced communication tools, and broader iPad support—set the stage for a more integrated and modern Apple ecosystem. Users are encouraged to verify their device eligibility before installing the beta to ensure a smooth testing experience.
Source: engadget.com