iOS 26.2.1: Apple Suddenly Releases Surprise iPhone Update With Key Features And Fixes
Updated Jan. 27 with more details of what’s in the release, and what’s not.
Apple’s latest iPhone update is not, as had been predicted, iOS 26.3 — though you can read here why I thought it had been delayed. Instead, Apple has just launched iOS 26.2.1 and, unlike most minor update numbers, this one includes new features. Intriguingly, Apple has now revealed that there are no security updates in this release. More on why that’s unusual, and important, below.
Which iPhones Can Run iOS 26.2.1?
This update is for all iPhones from 2019 onwards. That means the iPhone 11 and all iPhones since, including the iPhone SE in both its second- and third-generation models. And all members of the iPhone 17 series are included.
How To Download And Install iOS 26.2.1
Open the iPhone Settings app, then choose General, followed by Software Update. Next, click on Download and Install, and it’ll be on your pho