[ GLOSSARY DEFINITION ]
Software
iOS
Apple's operating system for iPhone; known for long, consistent software support.
Also known as:
iPhone OS
iOS 26
Full Definition & Technical Explanation
iOS powers the iPhone (e.g., iOS 26). Apple guarantees many years of OS and security updates — recent models get ~7 years.
iOS is tightly integrated with hardware and the App Store. The tablet variant is iPadOS; desktop is macOS.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is iOS?
Apple's operating system for iPhone; known for long, consistent software support.
What terms are related to iOS?
Related Software terms include Operating System, OS Updates, Android.
Related Technical Terms
Operating System
The system software that runs the device (iOS, Android, Windows, iPadOS); defines updates and featu…
Software
OS Updates
How many years a device gets major OS and security updates; longer is better for longevity.
Software
Android
Google's operating system used by most phones/tablets; heavily customized by vendors.
Software