Apple Confirms iOS 26 Release Date Alongside iPadOS, macOS Tahoe, watchOS, and visionOS Updates

A person is holding an iPhone showcasing apps.

Apple’s iPhone 17 launch event wasn’t just about hardware. While the spotlight was on the new iPhone lineup, three Apple Watch models, and the AirPods Pro 3, the company also confirmed release dates for its next wave of software updates.

Starting Monday, September 15, 2025, users with an iPhone 11 or newer can download iOS 26. On the same day, Apple will also roll out iPadOS 26, watchOS 26, macOS Tahoe 26, and visionOS 26.

iOS 26 Features and Release Time

If Apple sticks to its usual pattern, downloads will begin around 10 a.m. PT / 1 p.m. ET, though heavy demand could cause temporary delays. iOS 26 introduces the all-new Liquid Glass design, giving the interface a transparent, layered aesthetic. The update also brings:

A refreshed Photos app
A one-handed Camera mode
More customizable lock screens
Expanded Messages improvements

iPadOS 26 Compatibility

The update will be available on:

iPad Pro M4, Pro 12.9-inch (3rd Gen or later), and Pro 11-inch (1st Gen or later)
iPad Air M3/M2 and Air (3rd Gen or later)
iPad A16, iPad (8th Gen or later)
iPad mini A17 Pro and mini (5th Gen or later)

watchOS 26 Support

The next Apple Watch update covers:

Series 6 and newer
Apple Watch SE 2
Apple Watch Ultra models
The original SE from 2020 is excluded.

macOS Tahoe 26 Compatibility

Supported Macs include:

MacBook Air (2020 or later, Apple silicon)
MacBook Pro (2020 or later, Apple silicon)
MacBook Pro 16-inch (2019) and 13-inch with four Thunderbolt 3 ports (2020)
Mac Pro (2019 or later), Mac Studio (2022 or later), Mac mini (2020 or later), and iMac (2020 or later)

visionOS and tvOS

The Apple Vision Pro headset is set to receive visionOS 26 on September 15 as well. However, tvOS 26 is still listed as “coming this fall,” with no firm release date.