Apple's iOS 26 update will go live in India today, September 15, 2025, at 10:30 PM IST, bringing the largest design and intelligence update for iPhones in over 10 years.
Series time: Like the rest of the world, the update will “go live” for users in India starting 10:30 PM IST (10 AM Pacific Time).
Eligible devices: iOS 26 is compatible with the entire iPhone 11 series and above including the iPhone 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, the latest iPhone 17 series, and iPhone Air.
Installation: the latest version of the software can be found by going to the settings tab, selecting General, and then Software Update on these devices. The update is offered via a phenomenon popularly known as over the air (OTA) which means a direct tie to a computer is not necessary for installation.
Liquid Glass UI: iOS 26 brings about a transparent, dynamic user interface, changing the way menus, app icons, and widgets look and engage. Apple calls it "a new translucent material that reflects and refracts its surroundings," centering content and rendering a visually rich experience throughout the system.
Apple Intelligence (AI):Apple has enhanced its intelligence features, adding context-aware smart capabilities for reminders, messaging, and more – on newer hardware (first, iPhone 15 Pro and later).
Call Screening: For unfamiliar calls, iOS 26 can ask the caller's name and purpose, enabling users to screen out unwanted and spam calls.
Hold Assist: The device will hold users on hold and alert them when a customer service representative is available, streamlining call handling.
Adaptive Power Mode: Prolongs battery life in supported devices (primarily iPhone 15 Pro and later) using performance management.
Live Translation & AutoMix: The release introduces sophisticated translation capabilities, voice blending in messages and calls, and innovative ways to interact between apps.
Other Apple Apps: CarPlay, Apple Music, Maps, and Wallet have also had significant overhauls, plus a new standalone Apple Games app, concentrating iPhone gaming.
Back Up iPhone: Users are urged to back up the phone to iCloud or a computer before installation for protecting information.
Storage Space Check: A minimum of 5GB free storage is advisable for a smooth installation.
Charging Recommended: Plug in to a power supply to avoid battery problems while updating.
Global Release: Apple is launching iOS 26 on the same day in more than 60 nations, including India, U.S., U.K., Australia, and others.
Regional Feature Restrictions: Certain features, particularly Apple Intelligence, will at first be restricted to chosen regions and languages, expanding during 2025.
Craig Federighi, Apple's SVP of Software Engineering, explained, "iOS 26 glows with the stunning new design and significant enhancements to features users use day-to-day, making iPhone that much more useful," citing the expressive Lock Screen and Home Screen, and the new connectivity features.