What is the Latest iOS Version on iPhone?

Apple has finally released the latest version of its operating system, iOS 26.

The new iOS 26 is a major level-up to Apple's operating system. Its enhancements include Liquid Glass (more of this later), supercharged Apple Intelligence features, and new layouts and functionalities in Apple's core apps.

Read on to learn about Apple iOS versions—including iOS 26—and which ones work on which devices.

What is iOS?

For starters, the letters OS stand for operating system. In 2007, when Apple released its very first iPhone, it introduced iOS, an operating system designed exclusively for iPhones.

The original iOS was based on but not the same as the Mac OS used to run Macintosh computers. Apple has unique operating systems for different devices. For example, there’s Mac OS for computers and laptops, watchOS for Apple watches, and iOS for iPhones.

By comparison, Android devices use an open-source operating system referred to simply as OS that Google launched in 2008 to compete with the iPhone. Where iOS is exclusive to Apple iPhones, Android OS is designed for all other smartphone manufacturers.

Which iPhones Run iOS 26?

In order to run Apple's latest iOS version, 18.1, you'll need an iPhone that contains an A12 Bionic chip or later. Here’s a complete list of iOS 18 compatible iPhones: 

• iPhone 11
• iPhone 11 Pro
• iPhone 11 Pro Max
• iPhone SE (2nd gen)
• iPhone 12 mini  
• iPhone 12
• iPhone 12 Pro
• iPhone 12 Pro Max
• iPhone 13 mini
• iPhone 13
• iPhone 13 Pro
• iPhone 13 Pro Max
• iPhone 14
• iPhone 14 Plus
• iPhone 14 Pro
• iPhone 14 Pro Max
• iPhone 15
• iPhone 15 Plus
• iPhone 15 Pro
• iPhone 15 Pro Max
• iPhone 16
• iPhone 16 Plus
• iPhone 16 Pro
• iPhone 16 Pro Max
• iPhone 17
• iPhone 17 Air
• iPhone 17 Pro
• iPhone 17 Pro Max

Which iPhones Lack Support for iOS 26?

Not all recent iPhones support iOS 26. In fact the following models lack compatibility with it: 

iOS 26: What’s New

The iOS 26 operating system update is Apple’s biggest redesign in years. The new Liquid Glass look gives the whole system a translucent, fluid style that makes the iPhone feel fresher and more dynamic. At the same time, Apple has baked in much deeper Apple Intelligence—AI features that can translate conversations live, recognize what’s on your screen, and even generate custom emoji and images.

What's more, core apps are cleaner and smarter: the Phone app is streamlined, Messages gets polls and group payments, Maps remembers where you’ve been, and Music now has lyric translation and smoother transitions. Wallet, Safari, Camera, Photos, and CarPlay all pick up design and usability upgrades too.

The iOS 26 update launches in September 2025 for iPhone 11 and newer, though the most advanced AI features need the latest Pro models.

How to Update to iOS 26

If you have Automatic Updates turned on with an iOS 26 compatible device, the latest software updates should be automatically installed as soon as they become available. But in some cases, you’ll have to update manually. In that case, Apple makes the process easy to do.

To make sure you have the most recent update:

• Open your Settings.
• Navigate to “General”.
• Tap “Software Update”.

From this screen, you can see what version you are currently using. If you’re using the latest iOS version, you’ll see an on-screen message beneath the iOS version that says IOS is up to date. If your device has not been updated to the new iOS update, your iPhone will prompt you to either “Download and Install” or, if the device downloaded the latest version but didn’t complete the process, it will direct you to “Install Now.” Keep in mind, you'll need at least 5 to 10 GB of free storage to install iOS 26.

How Often Does Apple Release a New iOS?

Apple releases new iOS versions every year to coincide with their new device releases, usually in the fall. For instance, iOS 18 was released on September 16, 2024 alongside the debut of the iPhone 17. Similarly, iOS 26 is coming out with the iPhone 17 series devices.

In between releases, smaller software updates occur—often six weeks to one month between enhancement updates. These minor updates occur as soon to iron out any kinks or bugs that arise, as well as offer new enhancements.

Should You Update to iOS 26?

In a word, yes. To keep your iPhone running smoothly and for optimal security, we always recommend updating to the latest version of iOS. In fact, in our phone not working article, we note that out-of-date software is one of the most common causes of phone troubles. The best part is that software updates are free. And in case you’re wondering, we give Android users the same advice about upgrading to the latest OS version.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which iPhones can get iOS 26?

A long list of iPhones can get the iOS 26 operating system, including: the iPhone 11 series, the iPhone 12 series, the iPhone 13 series, the iPhone 14 series, the iPhone 15 series, the iPhone 16 series, and of course the new iPhone 17 series.

Has iOS 18 been phased out?

Apple's iOS 18 has not been entirely phased out but is in the process of being replaced by iOS 26. While Apple has shifted its primary focus to iOS 26, it has still provided iOS 18 updates for those who prefer to stay on it for stability reasons.

Is iOS 26 worth installing?

Yes, it's worth installing iOS 26 as it introduces a whole new, and enhanced, user experience. Plus, you'll need iOS 26 installed on your iPhone if you want to take advantage of the latest Apple Intelligence features.