Apple is set to launch significant software updates for its iPhone, iPad, and smartwatch on Monday, fundamentally altering the appearance of icons, the lock screen, and the overall system, while also introducing new features for compatible devices.
These updates, announced during the company’s developer conference in June, include iOS 26, iPadOS 26, watchOS 26, and macOS 26 Tahoe, which feature Apple’s innovative Liquid Glass design. This new design offers a softer, more rounded, and semi-transparent aesthetic that has sparked mixed reactions.
Typically, downloads for updates to iOS, iPadOS, watchOS, and macOS commence around 6pm UK time (1pm in New York; 3am in Sydney). Unlike other manufacturers, all eligible Apple devices will have the ability to download and install the update immediately upon release, rather than in a staggered manner.
Which devices are eligible for the update?
All Apple smartphones from the iPhone 11, released in 2019, or newer can install iOS 26. All tablets starting from the 2018 iPad Pro or the 2019 iPad Air (3rd generation), iPad mini (5th generation), or iPad (8th generation) and newer can install iPadOS 26. All Apple Watches from the Series 6, released in 2020, or newer can install watchOS 26.
For macOS 26 Tahoe, all MacBook Airs from 2020, 16-inch MacBook Pros from 2019, 13-inch MacBook Pros from 2020, Mac minis from 2020, iMacs from 2020, Mac Studios from 2022, and the 2019 Mac Pro or later are eligible for installation.
To install the update, open the Settings app on an iPhone or iPad, then go to General > Software Update. If the update is available, tap install to download, verify, and reboot to complete the process. Alternatively, you can also use a Mac or iTunes on a Windows computer to perform the installation.
For watchOS 26, an iPhone 11 or later must be running iOS 26 first. Then, open the Watch app on the phone and go to General > Software Update to start the installation. Ensure the smartwatch is placed on its charger to finalize the update.
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Macs can be updated through System Settings by navigating to General > Software Update. Liquid Glass everywhere
All of Apple’s operating systems now feature a consistent semi-translucent design reminiscent of frosted glass bubbles hovering over a flat background. This design brings the depth-oriented interface from the Vision Pro headset to the iPhone, Apple Watch, iPad, and Mac.
Icons, notification banners, buttons, and menus have become more rounded and exhibit a sheen that responds to movement, allowing partial visibility of the wallpaper, app, or content underneath.
The Liquid Glass redesign has transformed the shape and appearance of icons and widgets on the home screen. Alongside the revamped standard app icons, users can now opt to make them all colorless and translucent, apply a tint of their preferred color, or select a dark variant of the original icon.
Notifications and other elements now elegantly bounce into view from the top of the screen. Widgets are positioned at the bottom of the lock screen, and the clock can dynamically adjust its size based on the number of notifications displayed.
