Christine BowenDec 27, 2025 4 min read

When to Expect the Latest Apple iPhone Update and How to Install It

Apple iPhone update
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Many Apple iPhone users have already installed the new iOS 26.1 update. What is the consensus about this platform refresh, and when can you expect iOS 26.2 to be available? We have all of the details here.

Everything You Need to Know About the Latest and Upcoming Apple iPhone Updates

Apple released the iOS 26 software update in September. This software update has been most distinguished by the new liquid glass design. The update also boasts several new tools that are powered by Apple Intelligence.

The iOS 26.1 update was released in November, giving users a refreshed version of the latest platform. Users with their automatic updates enabled on their phones have already begun to use this update, with varying reviews.

Apple liquid glass design
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Many iPhone users are praising the new design, calling it "beautiful." The liquid glass feature has earned rave reviews for its sleek design. However, other users note that the update is clunky and more difficult to navigate. There have also been several reports that indicate that the screen is disorienting, making it difficult to focus. Another common critique of the update is that it takes up too much space.

What is Next for Apple? The short answer is that the new iOS 26.2 could be launched at any time. Apple has confirmed that it is likely that the rollout will happen in the next few days. Some iPhone users have already been granted access to the beta version of the update, despite the software not being available to the public yet.

Although Apple has not released a definitive launch date, industry experts believe the update will be out for everyone by the end of the year. According to reporting by Forbes and MacRumors, the updates are expected to feature the ability to set an alarm for reminders, new offerings for the AirDrop and CarPlay sectors of the phone, and Apple Music lyrics available when offline.

Apple's description of the iOS 26.2 software indicates that the liquid glass feature will now be able to lock screens and home screens, creating a transparent bubble effect. The Apple description also boasts updates to messages, new features for the phone camera and wallet, enhancements to CarPlay, and live translation features.

Understanding the Ins and Outs of Using the New Apple Update

Apple iPhone update
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It is easy to set up access to launch the software automatically if you want to have access to the update as soon as it becomes available. The first thing that you need to do is open the "Software Update" tab and ensure that "Automatic Updates" is marked as "On."

If you need to download the most recent update, you will need to plug your phone into a power source and connect to Wi-Fi. The next step is to go to the "Software Update" in the "General" section of the "Settings" app. From there, users should be able to locate the currently installed iOS version. This is also the place that will show if an update is available and if the phone has enough available storage to download it. Simply tap the update to download and install it on your phone.

It should be noted that once you install iOS, you cannot downgrade it if you are not happy with the features. This is why it is important to do your reserach before deciding to give it a whirl.

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