[ 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.
Related Technical Terms
Android
Google's operating system used by most phones/tablets; heavily customized by vendors.
Software
OS Updates
How many years a device gets major OS and security updates; longer is better for longevity.
Software
Operating System
The system software that runs the device (iOS, Android, Windows, iPadOS); defines updates and featu…
Software