Apple has officially released iOS 26 and iPadOS 26 final versions for the public after months of beta testing. If you own a compatible iPhone or iPad, you can upgrade right away — either with a quick over-the-air (OTA) update or by doing a clean install using an IPSW file.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you install iOS 26 or iPadOS 26 the right way.

Method 1: Install iOS 26 / iPadOS 26 via OTA Update (Recommended for Most Users)

The fastest and simplest way to update is directly from your device’s settings.

Steps:

  1. Make sure your iPhone or iPad is charged to at least 50% and connected to Wi-Fi.
  2. Open the Settings app > General > Software Update.
  3. Wait while your device checks for the update.
  4. Tap Download and Install when iOS 26/iPadOS 26 appears.
  5. Follow the on-screen prompts and keep the device connected to power until the update completes.

That’s it — your iPhone or iPad will reboot with iOS 26/iPadOS 26 installed.

Method 2: Clean Install iOS 26 / iPadOS 26 with IPSW (For a Fresh Start)

If you want the best performance, or you’re troubleshooting major issues, a clean install using IPSW files is the way to go. This process erases your device, so make sure you’ve created a backup first (via Finder/iTunes or iCloud).

Steps:

  1. Download the correct IPSW file for your iPhone or iPad. Be sure to get the one that matches your exact model.
  2. On your device, go to Settings > [your name] > Find My > Find My iPhone/iPad, and toggle it OFF.
  3. Connect your iPhone or iPad to your Mac or Windows PC using a USB cable.
    • On Mac (macOS Catalina or later): Open Finder.
    • On Windows PC (or older macOS): Open iTunes or the Apple Devices app.
  4. Select your connected iPhone/iPad from the sidebar.
  5. Restore using IPSW:
    • On Mac, hold Option key and click Restore iPhone/iPad.
    • On Windows, hold Shift key and click Restore iPhone/iPad.
  6. A file selector will pop up. Choose the IPSW file you downloaded earlier.
  7. Confirm, and your computer will erase the device and install iOS 26/iPadOS 26 fresh. Once finished, you can set up as new or restore from a backup.

Which Method Should You Choose?

  • OTA Update: Quick, easy, and keeps your apps and data intact. Perfect for most users.
  • IPSW Clean Install: Best if you want a fresh start, are fixing major bugs, or if your device feels slow after multiple updates.

Final Thoughts

With iOS 26 and iPadOS 26 now officially rolling out, you don’t need to wait — just choose the method that works best for you. If you want minimal hassle, stick to OTA. If you want that “brand-new iPhone” feel, go for the IPSW route.

Either way, your device will be ready to take full advantage of Apple’s new Liquid Glass design, Apple Intelligence, Messages backgrounds, call screening, and more.

Categorized in:

Apple, iPad, iPhone, News, Tips & Tricks,

Last Update: September 15, 2025

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