On September 16th, Apple officially rolled out the stable release of iOS 26. The update package is approximately 8GB in size, though this may vary slightly depending on the specific device model.
In terms of compatibility, iOS 26 supports the second-generation iPhone SE and all subsequent iPhone models, totaling 25 compatible devices. Notably, the latest iPhone 17 series and iPhone Air models will come pre-installed with iOS 26 right out of the box.
The standout feature of iOS 26 is its entirely new “Liquid Glass” design language. This represents the most significant visual overhaul since iOS 7, introducing fresh aesthetics to the Lock Screen, Home Screen, Control Center, and various applications.
A key innovation is the adaptive sizing of lock screen text, allowing for dynamic adjustments. Furthermore, lock screen wallpapers are now capable of displaying a convincing 3D stereoscopic effect, adding a new dimension to personalization.
The Liquid Glass design is engineered to refract light and dynamically respond to user actions through a mirrored, high-gloss finish. This interactive element enhances the user experience by providing visual feedback as users navigate options or switch between different interfaces.
Within the system, UI elements and buttons have been redesigned with a focus on liquid glass aesthetics and rounded corners. This cohesive approach results in a more unified appearance and a more fluid, intuitive interaction.
In addition to the visual enhancements, iOS 26 also introduces several practical improvements to core applications such as Camera, Photos, Wallet, and CarPlay, further refining the overall user experience.
