Apple will be releasing many new software updates for your iPhone in 2026 – this is when you can expect the changes in iOS 26 and iOS 27.
iOS 27 and more in 2026
Apple has major changes planned in 2026 with iOS 26, but also with iOS 27 that will be released in June WWDC is presented. Below you’ll find the full timeline for when you can expect these updates.
iOS 26.3
iOS 26.3 is currently being tested by developers and beta users. What’s new in iOS 26.3?
- A new ‘Transfer to Android’ system.
- Forward notifications to third-party smartwatches (EU only).
- Proximity link for third party accessories (EU only).
Expected release date: end of January.
iOS 26.4
iOS 26.4 is said to be a major update that will likely include new features for Siri. Personal context allows Siri to find specific information in notes, text messages, and emails, for example. Screen awareness allows Siri to take action based on what’s on your screen. Finally, in-app actions let you control specific parts of apps with Siri. These features were initially intended for iOS 18, so it’s possible they’ll be further delayed.
Expected beta version release date: early February.
Expected release date: late March or early April.
iOS 26.5
iOS 26.5 will likely have a new Pride wallpaper ahead of Pride Month in June. No further details are known yet about what’s new in iOS 26.5. It’s likely a smaller update, as Apple is working on iOS 27 in 2026.
Expected beta version release date: early April.
Expected release date: mid-May.
iOS 26.6
iOS 26.6 will likely focus on bug fixes and performance improvements, as this is the last major iOS 26 update before iOS 27 is released to everyone in September. There are no rumors about new features.
Expected beta version release date: early June.
Expected release date: end of July.
iOS 27
iOS 27 will be the most important software update of the year for iPhone users. Here are some rumored new features:
- New optimizations for the first foldable iPhone to hit the market this year.
- New Apple Intelligence features including an AI platform for the Health app and a visual redesign for Siri.
- Focus on bug fixes and performance improvements.
Expected beta version release date: early June (developers) and mid-July (public beta).
Expected release date: mid-September.
iOS 26.7
This will be released together with iOS 27 as an option for people who do not want to immediately switch to iOS 27.
Expected beta version release date: early September.
Expected release date: mid-September.
iOS 27.1
iOS 27.1 has new features that Apple did not have ready in time for the release of iOS 27 in early September 2026.
Expected beta version release date: mid-September.
Expected release date: late October or early November.
iOS 27.2
iOS 27.2 includes more refinements, bug fixes, and changes to new features that were initially included in the first version of iOS 27 in 2026.
Expected beta version release date: early November.
Expected release date: mid-December.
Software updates in 2026
These are all the major software updates Apple will release in 2026. There will also be smaller updates during the year, such as iOS 27.0.1. But these are the most important updates that will also undergo beta testing. Don’t want to miss any of Apple’s software updates? Then sign up for our newsletter!
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