Apple has officially opened the App Store for submissions built on its latest software lineup, including iOS 26, iPadOS 26, macOS Tahoe 26, tvOS 26, visionOS 26, and watchOS 26.
With these platforms set to launch to customers worldwide soon, developers can now prepare their apps and games to take advantage of Apple's most comprehensive design update ever.
What's New?
Developers can now submit apps and games created with the Xcode 26 Release Candidate and the newest SDKs. Testing is available through TestFlight, followed by submission for App Store review.
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This year's OS updates deliver Apple's broadest ecosystem refresh to date, bringing new opportunities for innovation and deeper integration across devices.
New Developer Tools
Apple highlights several major enhancements developers can take advantage of:
- Liquid Glass design update for a modern, fluid interface
- Foundation Models framework for AI-powered experiences
- New Apple Games app that centralizes discovery and gameplay
- Expanded cross-platform capabilities for seamless app performance
- TestFlight improvements to streamline beta testing
These updates allow developers to deliver more immersive, customized, and intelligent experiences on Apple platforms.
Submission Requirements
To ensure compatibility with Apple's evolving ecosystem, new submission requirements will take effect in April 2026:
- iOS & iPadOS apps must be built with the iOS 26/iPadOS 26 SDK or later
- tvOS apps must be built with the tvOS 26 SDK or later
- visionOS apps must be built with the visionOS 26 SDK or later
- watchOS apps must be built with the watchOS 26 SDK or later
Apps that do not meet these requirements will not be accepted on App Store Connect.
Why It Matters?
For developers, this update marks one of Apple's largest platform shifts in years.
With design evolution, AI integration, and gaming advancements, the new OS lineup opens fresh opportunities to enhance user engagement and stand out in the App Store marketplace.
By adopting the latest SDKs early, developers can optimize app performance, future-proof their products, and gain a competitive edge ahead of the April 2026 deadline.

How To Start?
To get started, developers should:
2. Build and test apps using the latest SDKs
3. Run beta testing on TestFlight to refine performance
4. Submit apps for App Store review via App Store Connect
For full details on guidelines, SDK downloads, and submission best practices, visit the Apple Developer website.