iOS 26: Apple is gearing up for a groundbreaking WWDC 2025, set for Monday, June 9 at 1 PM ET, where it will officially unveil iOS 26—its most ambitious mobile software redesign in over a decade.
While much of the spotlight will shine on the visual overhaul, insiders reveal a suite of powerful new features coming to Messages, CarPlay, Apple Music, and Notes.
However, not every iPhone will be able to enjoy this upgrade—Apple is also expected to drop support for several older models.
iOS 26 Features: What’s New?
According to sources familiar with Apple’s plans, iOS 26 will bring smart, user-focused upgrades, including:
Automatic Message Translation: Apple is preparing live translation for incoming and outgoing iMessages—ideal for multilingual conversations or global travel.
In-Chat Polls in Messages: Users will soon be able to create interactive polls within group chats, similar to features on WhatsApp and Telegram.
Animated Lock Screen Music Art: Apple Music will now animate album artwork full-screen on the Lock Screen while music plays, creating a more immersive visual experience.
Markdown Export in Notes: A long-requested feature finally arrives—users can export Apple Notes in Markdown, improving compatibility with other writing tools and workflows.
CarPlay Redesign: The iOS 26 design overhaul is expected to extend to CarPlay, modernizing the in-car interface with smoother animations and layout tweaks—even for non-Ultra models.
These iPhones Won’t Get iOS 26
Not all devices will be part of this next leap. Multiple reports suggest that three iPhones currently running iOS 18 will be left behind:
- iPhone XS
- iPhone XS Max
- iPhone XR
These models, launched in 2018 and powered by the A12 Bionic chip, are expected to lose support as Apple focuses on optimizing the performance of newer devices. Owners of the iPhone 11 and later can breathe easy—those models will fully support iOS 26.
If your iPhone falls off the update list, it won’t stop working—but it will remain on iOS 18, with limited future updates likely focused on security rather than new features.
When Will iOS 26 Be Available?
Developer Beta: Launches June 10, immediately following the WWDC keynote.
Public Beta: Expected to roll out in July.
Official Release: Scheduled for Fall 2025, likely alongside the iPhone 17 launch.
With design innovation, AI-powered communication tools, and enhanced music and productivity features, iOS 26 is positioned to redefine the iPhone experience. But for users on older hardware, this update could mean it’s time to consider an upgrade.