At the keynote, Apple will announce the release date for the iPhones, Apple Watches and other products it unveils (almost certainly Friday, Sept. 19), but also the date for pre-orders (expected to be Friday, Sept. 12) and when the new software, iOS 26 will go on general release — thought to be on Monday, Sept. 15.

Apple has also released the past four iOS versions on the Monday following its September events. So this could be the new norm and Apple will release all future iOS versions on the Monday after its September event. So it's most likely that Apple will release iOS 26 on a Monday.

Apple is gearing up for its major event, anticipated to unveil the iPhone 17 lineup, including a potential iPhone 17 Air. The keynote is expected on September 9th, with pre-orders starting September 12th.