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Apple has released the release candidate for iOS 26. iPadOS 26, macOS 26 ("Tahoe"), watchOS 26, tvOS 26, and visionOS 26 are also available as final preview versions. The release candidate marks the last step in the testing phase and corresponds in content to the version that will be released to all users worldwide starting September 15.
Since its launch at WWDC in June, a total of nine developer betas and several public betas have been distributed. This testing phase now concludes with the release candidate. This version is typically identical to the final version, which is rolled out worldwide one week later. The focus is no longer on new features, but on final tuning and preparation for the official rollout.
Stability and final optimizations
The development of iOS 26 has been primarily fine-tuning in recent weeks. The new features already introduced include the new Liquid Glass design, additional color variants for the default wallpaper, Adaptive Energy Mode on newer iPhone models, new ringtones, and redesigned animations. The camera app, the navigation bars in native apps, and the readability of notifications have also been adjusted. Furthermore, there is the revised blood oxygen function in conjunction with watchOS 26. The release candidate focuses on stability, bug fixes, and compatibility. No further visible changes are expected, as the feature set for the final release has been finalized.
Release on September 15
The final version of iOS 26 and the other systems will be rolled out worldwide on September 15. As usual, this date coincides shortly before the launch of the new iPhone generation. Users of all compatible devices will receive the update free of charge via software update.
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iOS 26 ushers in a new software generation for iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch, Apple TV, and Vision Pro, bringing a unified design, deeper Apple Intelligence integration, and numerous detailed improvements. The release candidate demonstrates that work on the major innovations is complete, and Apple is now focusing on a smooth launch. The best products for you: Our Amazon Storefront offers a wide selection of accessories, including those for HomeKit. (Image: Apple)
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