iOS 26 is officially here!
Apple officials announced when the operating system update would launch during its event on Sept. 9. The technology giant teased that iOS 26 would make “apps and system experiences more expressive and delightful, bringing greater focus to content.”
And now, you try it for yourself. iOS 26 officially launched on Sept. 15.
Here’s what you need to know about downloading the new operating system, which iPhones will be supported, and some of iOS 26’s most significant new features.
How long does it take to download iOS 26?
According to several tech and Apple blogs, downloading iOS 26 can take anywhere from 30 minutes to a couple of hours. The exact amount of time can depend on several factors, including internet speed, device model, Apple’s server load, and the size of the update.
Here’s how to update to iOS 26 when it launches
Before doing any update to your iPhone, make sure to back up your phone. This allows you to keep your data safe by making a copy and saving the information from your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch.
Once you have backed up your phone, Apple advises you to plug your phone into a power outlet and connect to Wi-Fi. Then you can follow these steps:
What phones will support iOS 26? Not every phone is compatible
These Apple devices are compatible with iOS 26, according to the company:
What features are included in iOS 26?
The company shared that its operating system will have upgrades to its Apple Intelligence features, including expanded live translation capabilities. Visual intelligence will also be updated as users can screenshot and search on the iPhone.
The new “Liquid Glass” interface design will feature a glassy, translucent quality that shifts in appearance and color depending on the content displayed on the screen. Apple said in a news release that the update will transform how the phone looks to users.
A new call screening feature will give people more control over blocking spam and other unwanted calls by automatically answering the call and requesting the caller’s information, which is then passed to the user to decide whether to accept it. iOS 26 will also come with “Hold Assist,” a feature that keeps a user’s spot in line while waiting to speak to a live person, and then notifies them when it’s time to pick up the phone.
CarPlay will also receive updates, including support for “Live Activities,” which display frequently updated information that users can view at a glance, such as the time remaining on a food-delivery order, the score of a live basketball game, and other event details, according to Apple’s website.
What iPhone did Apple just release? See iPhone 17 models, prices
Apple unveiled the iPhone 17 line at its “Awe Dropping” event:
When will the iPhone 17 be released?
The iPhone 17 line has been available for pre-order since Friday, Sept. 12. The iPhone 17 line will launch later on Friday, Sept. 19.
Where can I buy an iPhone 17 in Florida?
iPhones are available from phone carriers such as Verizon, from retail stores such as Best Buy and Target, from online retailers such as Amazon, or directly from Apple through its website or from Apple stores.
There are 19 Apple stores in Florida:
You can find one near you at apple.com/retail/storelist/
Contributing: Andre Byik, USA TODAY Network
This article originally appeared on The Daytona Beach News-Journal: How long does it take to download iOS 26 on your iPhone? What to know
Reporting by Samantha Neely, USA TODAY NETWORK – Florida / The Daytona Beach News-Journal
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
