# Apple iPhone Software Updates Schedule for 2026
Apple is set to launch a range of important iPhone software updates in 2026, featuring the much-anticipated iOS 26 and iOS 27. Here’s a comprehensive schedule of the updates expected this year.
## Which iOS Updates Will Be Released by Apple This Year?
### iOS 26.3
Currently undergoing beta testing, iOS 26.3 is anticipated to bring a variety of improvements:
– Enhanced switching and data transfer between iPhone and Android devices.
– Notification forwarding for third-party smartwatches (EU only).
– Proximity pairing for third-party accessories (EU only).
**Expected Release Date:** Late January
### iOS 26.4
iOS 26.4 is expected to be a significant update, especially for Siri, featuring:
– Personal context capabilities enabling Siri to find specific information in notes, texts, and emails.
– Onscreen awareness allowing Siri to interact with items on the user’s screen.
– In-app actions that enable control of specific app functions via Siri.
These features were originally scheduled for iOS 18, suggesting possible delays.
**Expected Beta Release Date:** Early February
**Expected Release Date:** Late March or early April
### iOS 26.5
This update is expected to include a new Pride wallpaper to celebrate Pride Month. It is likely to be a more minor update as Apple concentrates on the forthcoming iOS 27.
**Expected Beta Release Date:** Early April
**Expected Release Date:** Mid May
### iOS 26.6
iOS 26.6 will mainly focus on bug fixes and performance improvements as the final significant update ahead of iOS 27.
**Expected Beta Release Date:** Early June
**Expected Release Date:** Late July
### iOS 27
As the standout software update of the year, iOS 27 is speculated to include:
– Optimizations for the inaugural iPhone Fold.
– New Apple Intelligence features, incorporating an AI-driven Health app and a revamped Siri interface.
– Emphasis on bug fixes and performance enhancements.
**Expected Beta Release Date:** Early June (for developers) and mid-July (for public beta)
**Expected Release Date:** Mid September
### iOS 26.7
This update will launch alongside iOS 27 for users who opt not to upgrade to the new version.
**Expected Beta Release Date:** Early September
**Expected Release Date:** Mid September
### iOS 27.1
iOS 27.1 will present features that were not completed in time for the iOS 27.0 rollout.
**Expected Beta Release Date:** Mid September
**Expected Release Date:** Late October or early November
### iOS 27.2
This update will concentrate on refinements, bug fixes, and modifications to new features introduced in iOS 27.0.
**Expected Beta Release Date:** Early November
**Expected Release Date:** Mid December
## Conclusion
These updates signify the primary software enhancements slated for iPhone users in 2026. While other minor updates will take place throughout the year, these are the major releases that will go through beta testing.
Which new software features are you most looking forward to this year?