Apple typically releases its new hardware and software updates early in September and this year looks no different. The company is scheduled to host its ‘Awe Dropping’ iPhone 17 launch event in a matter of hours and soon after the event, developers will be given the final release candidate build of iOS 26, iPadOS 26, macOS 26, and the rest of the updates for final testing. So when will Apple release iOS 26 to the public?
Apple expected to release iOS 26 a week after the iPhone 17 launch event – Here’s when it will show up on your iPhone
In recent years, Apple has followed a consistent and steady rhythm by releasing the final versions of its software a week after the iPhone launch event. The release candidate builds are also released on the same day soon after the event, which is a sign that the final build is closing in. The company releases the final versions to the public just before the new iPhone models hit the shelves, giving users with older devices the option to try the new features first. This consistency is not a coincidence, as the company ensures a smooth transition across its ecosystem.
If we apply the same logic to 2025, the most likely release window for iOS 26 release is the week following the September 9 keynote. What this means is that iOS 26 will be available to the public on September 16, 2025. The gap between the release candidate or golden master version of the software and its public release is for developers to ready and finalize the changes for their third-party apps. This also applies to the company’s in-house engineers who are testing the iOS 26 update, allowing them to perfect the update before iPhone 17 ships to the public.
Apple has already seeded the final beta to developers last week, which means that the update has reached its end and completed its cycle after 9 consecutive builds. Additionally, Apple has also made multiple public beta versions available, which will also ensure extended testing and bug curation. iOS 26 will be a major update and you can check out the new features from Apple’s website.
Apple is expected to announce a plethora of devices today, including the iPhone 17 Pro models, the ultra-thin iPhone 17 Air, and the standard iPhone 17. Apart from this, the company is also expected to introduce Apple Watch Series 11, Apple Watch Ultra 3, AirPods Pro 3, and possibly the M5 iPad Pro as well. We will be covering important updates later today, which will give you the perfect idea if the new models are worth upgrading to. What are your expectations from the iPhone 17 launch event?
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