Apple will release several iOS updates for the iPhone throughout the year. In addition to minor version upgrades, major feature updates are also planned. The main focus is iOS 27, which will be unveiled in the summer and released in the fall. Until then, iOS 26 will be gradually expanded and stabilized. The following overview summarizes all known updates, features, and planned release dates.
The iOS update year follows a fixed pattern. After releasing a major version in the fall, Apple delivers feature updates, improvements, and bug fixes over several months. Simultaneously, development begins on the next major version. This is exactly what's happening again this year. While iOS 26 continues to be developed with several intermediate versions, Apple is preparing the next big step with iOS 27. Many new features won't appear all at once, but will be distributed across several updates and beta phases.
iOS 26.3
iOS 26.3 is currently being tested and is available to both developers and public beta users.
New in iOS 26.3 are several features related to device connectivity and accessories. These include improved switching and transferring of data between iPhones and Android devices. Additionally, notifications can be forwarded to third-party smartwatches. This feature is limited to the EU. Also available only in the EU is the new proximity pairing feature for third-party accessories.
The expected release date is the end of January.
iOS 26.4
iOS 26.4 is one of the most important updates within iOS 26. The focus is clearly on new Siri features.
Siri receives a personal context, enabling it to find information from notes, messages, and emails. Additionally, screen awareness allows Siri to recognize what is currently displayed on the screen and perform actions accordingly. Furthermore, in-app actions allow certain app functions to be controlled directly via Siri.
These features were originally planned for an earlier iOS version. Therefore, further delays or adjustments are possible.
The beta release is expected in early February. The final version is scheduled for release in late March or early April.
iOS 26.5
iOS 26.5 is expected to be a smaller release. The main anticipated feature is a new Pride wallpaper, traditionally released before Pride Month. No other new features are currently known. Since Apple will already be working intensively on iOS 27 at this time, the update is likely to be limited.
The beta release is expected in early April. The official release is planned for mid-May.
iOS 26.6
iOS 26.6 is the last major update before the release of iOS 27. The focus is clearly on stability.
This update focuses on bug fixes, performance improvements, and general system optimizations. There are no rumors of new features.
The beta version is scheduled for release in early June. The final release is expected at the end of July.
iOS 27
iOS 27 is the major software update for iPhone users this year. It will be announced in June and released in September.
Expected new features include specific optimizations for the first iPhone Fold, which is slated for release this year. Apple also plans new Apple Intelligence features, including an AI-powered platform for the Health app and a visual redesign of Siri. Additionally, there will be a strong focus on bug fixes and performance improvements across the entire system.
The developer beta is scheduled for release in early June. A public beta is planned for mid-July. The final version of iOS 27 is expected to be released in mid-September.
iOS 26.7
iOS 26.7 is released simultaneously with iOS 27. This update is aimed at users who do not want to switch to iOS 27 immediately and prefer to stay on iOS 26.
The beta version is expected in early September. The final release is planned for mid-September.
iOS 27.1
iOS 27.1 brings new features that didn't make it into the first version of iOS 27. This update therefore expands iOS 27 in terms of content and functionality.
The beta release is planned for mid-September. The official release is expected at the end of October or beginning of November.
iOS 27.2
With iOS 27.2, Apple continues the development of iOS 27. It includes further improvements, bug fixes, and adjustments to features already introduced with iOS 27.
The beta phase is expected to start in early November. The final version is expected in mid-December.
iOS 27 and beyond: A clear update roadmap for the iOS year
The iOS year is clearly structured and unusually extensive. From iOS 26.3 to iOS 26.6, the focus is on stability, system maintenance, and individual feature updates. iOS 27, the major update, arrives in the fall with a focus on AI, Siri enhancements, and adaptations for new hardware. This is complemented by iOS 27.1 and iOS 27.2, which add further features and refine the system. There will also be smaller interim updates like iOS 27.0.1, but the versions listed here represent the most important milestones of the year. The best products for you: Our Amazon storefront offers a wide selection of accessories, including those for HomeKit. (Image: Shutterstock / nikkimeel)
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