iOS 16 Is Coming Soon: The Buzziest Rumors We’ve Heard

We have a lot of questions about iOS 16, Apple’s rumored next big software update. While there’s no official release date at this point, we’re expecting to get a reveal (and some answers) at . Will older devices, like the 2016 , get iOS 16? How will the update compare to (which brought a slew of , including a )? 

Here’s everything we’ve heard so far. Keep in mind that Apple has yet to confirm any of the new operating system’s features. We’ll update this article with new rumors and leaks as we find them. 

Release date: When is iOS 16 coming out?

Apple usually announces the next iOS at its annual WWDC conference and releases a public beta soon after. It’s safe to say we’ll learn more details at , where Apple showed off last year. 

We could very well see iOS 16 roll out in September, as the next iOS typically arrives at the same time as the next iPhone. Last year, for example, Apple released iOS 15 on Sept. 20, about a week after the event. Should Apple’s event take place this September, as , iOS 16 would likely be quick to follow.

Compatibility: Will iOS 16 be available for your iPhone?

Even as Apple churns out a new iOS every year, the operating systems are compatible for most old models, with iOS 15 . But the French website a developer at Apple leaked that iOS 16 will work on iPhones that have an A10 processor or higher. That’s the iPhone 7 and up — and not the iPhone 6S, 6S Plus or the SE 2016.

iPadOS 16 «will probably not» be compatible with the iPad Mini 4, iPad 5, iPad Air 2, or 9.7- and 12.9-inch iPad Pro. 

iOS 16’s rumored new features: Big widgets?

A hallmark of the iPhone user experience is the grid of small app squares that dot the home screen. But that iOS 16 is bringing «big widgets» to the table. The image that LeaksApplePro tweeted appears to show apps displayed in larger squares and rectangles than usual, leaving room for more information such as the day’s weather, specific reminders and the song that’s playing. The image has been met with some skepticism, with the Apple TV remote logo is inconsistent with the remote’s appearance. 

As for other features, iOS 15 brought upgrades like grid view and call scheduling to FaceTime — and it’s possible that with iOS 16, Apple could opt to make cooks FaceTime look in this era of telework and videoconferencing. And as tech giants push the and rumors of an fly, it’s possible that iOS 16 could incorporate some , though Apple CEO Tim Cook has carefully avoided using the word.

How to download the iOS 16 beta (when it’s available)

It’s a little far out, but it never hurts to be prepared. Downloading a new operating system eats up quite a bit of space on a phone, so you’ll want to get rid of storage suckers like old photos, videos and apps. Then you need to back up your phone so you don’t lose anything important should the update go awry. If you’re wondering how to do that, from the iOS 14 release provides a step-by-step guide.

To try out the public beta once it comes, you’ll need to enroll in the . (Note that last year, against installing the iOS 15 beta too quickly.)

Looking for more information about the latest from Apple? Check out CNET’s rumor roundup for the . If you’re on the hunt for new ways to use your iPhone now, take a look at these and .