Apple's iOS 26 Update to Debut Alongside iPhone 17 Series in September 2025

Apple's much-anticipated iOS 26 update is set to debut alongside the launch of the iPhone 17 series at the company's "Awe-Dropping" event on September 9, 2025. The new operating system, first announced at the World Wide Developers Conference (WWDC) in June 2025, promises sweeping changes, including a striking new design language, smarter tools, and improved performance across supported devices.

If Apple follows its traditional rollout strategy, the iOS 26 update is expected to begin rolling out globally around September 15-16, 2025, roughly a week after the iPhone 17 series is unveiled. This timeline mirrors the company's previous software update releases, where new iOS versions precede the commercial availability of new iPhones.

Alongside the iOS 26 update, Apple will also introduce iPadOS 26, ensuring a parallel upgrade in design and functionality for its tablet lineup. The update will maintain compatibility with all iPhone models from 2019 onwards, while older devices like the iPhone XR, XS, and XS Max will no longer receive iOS updates.