Apple today provided developers and public beta testers with the iOS 26 Release Candidate, and the update represents the final version of iOS 26

For the third year in a row, I accurately predicted the date of the next iPhone update. Here's when to expect the new operating system to land on your iPhone.

Apple has just released the iOS 26 RC (release candidate), which is expected to be the final shipping version of the new iPhone software.

The list of iOS 26-compatible iPhones is as follows:

Here's iOS 26 final version release notes for iPhone after Apple made them available earlier today ahead of release on 15.

For those who choose to install the RC, it offers a polished preview of iOS 26, complete with performance enhancements, battery optimizations, and improved stability. On the other hand, waiting for the public release ensures you receive the final version without any lingering uncertainties.

A new version number and Liquid Glass are far from the only changes Apple brings in iOS 26, but the Siri delays haunt an otherwise excellent upgrade.

Apple confirmed the news during its iPhone 17 announcement event on September 9. The announcement also confirmed that the iOS 26 Release Candidate update will be made available to developers and public beta testers today ahead of the final version which will be released on September 15 to the public.

Discover iOS 26 RC’s new features, including liquid glass design and performance boosts, ahead of its September 15 public release.

The release candidate version of iOS 26 includes a new feature that lets you set an icon tint color that matches your iPhone case. When you