Apple’s next major versions of iOS and macOS, iOS 26 and macOS Tahoe 26, are set to launch as free updates this fall, the company announced at its Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC).
One major feature across both updates is a new “Liquid Glass” software design that adds a lot of translucency across the operating systems, including inside apps and with small elements like buttons and sliders. Apple is also redesigning apps to incorporate the design. The new look is inspired by Apple’s visionOS software.
A developer beta for the updates will be available today, and a public beta will be available next month, according to Apple.
The fall release window isn’t a huge surprise, as the company typically releases its major software updates in the fall timeframe. iOS 18 and macOS Sequoia, for example, both launched on the same day in September 2024. And iOS 17 came out a few days ahead of macOS Sonoma in September 2023.
