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On September 15, one of the largest update waves in Apple's history will begin. iOS 26, iPadOS 26, macOS Tahoe 26, watchOS 26, tvOS 26, and visionOS 26 will be released on that day. Just a few days later, on September 19, the new iPhone 17 models and the new Apple Watch models will also be launched – with the corresponding operating systems already preinstalled.
The focus is on iOS 26, the major update for the iPhone. Apple has announced that it not only brings new features but also fundamentally changes the entire design. With the so-called Liquid Glass look, the company aims to create a more modern and transparent appearance. The update is complemented by navigation improvements and new features that make a noticeable difference in many apps.
Release date and devices
The rollout of iOS 26 is scheduled for Monday, September 15. All of Apple's major operating systems will be released on that day. Just five days later, on Friday, September 19, the new iPhone 17 models will follow, which will come standard with iOS 26. The new Apple Watch models will also run watchOS 26. This allows Apple to launch a new software and hardware generation simultaneously within a tight timeframe.
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Liquid Glass: The new design
The most striking new feature in iOS 26 is the Liquid Glass design. It gives the entire system a translucent, glass-like appearance. This design is consistent throughout all areas—from the lock screen to the home screen to the apps. In addition to the new look, Liquid Glass also brings functional changes. Navigation bars are now slimmer and more clearly structured, while pop-out menus provide a clearer overview. The goal is to make operation more intuitive while simultaneously creating a clear visual break from previous iOS versions.
New features in iOS 26
In addition to the design, iOS 26 also delivers a number of new features that simplify everyday life:
- Apple Intelligence adds live translation to Messages, FaceTime, and Phone.
- Apple Music introduces AutoMix and lyrics translation.
- A new games app bundles gaming content clearly in one place.
- The Preview app is available for the first time on iPhone and iPad.
- The phone app is being expanded to iPad and Mac, making communication easier across devices.
These features show that Apple is focusing on practical improvements in addition to the visual redesign.
Updates across the Apple ecosystem
iOS 26 isn't a standalone release, but part of a broader software offensive. iPadOS 26 and macOS Tahoe also receive the Liquid Glass design and benefit from the same visual innovations. watchOS 26, tvOS 26, and visionOS 26 also implement the new design language. This ensures that all Apple devices will look more consistent and operate more seamlessly in the future.
iOS 26 marks the beginning of a new phase
With iOS 26 and the simultaneous updates for iPad, Mac, Apple Watch, Apple TV, and Vision Pro, Apple is launching a new software generation. The Liquid Glass design, in particular, will define the look for years to come. This is complemented by useful enhancements such as Live Translation, AutoMix for Apple Music, and a new Games app. September 15 is therefore more than just an update date—it marks the beginning of a new phase in which hardware and software work even more closely together. (Image: Shutterstock / Yalcin Sonat)
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