When will xCode 26 become mandatory?
Xcode 26 will become mandatory for App Store submissions in
April 2026, when all new submissions must use the iOS 26 SDK (which requires Xcode 26 or later). This deadline applies to all platforms, including the watchOS 26 SDK, which will also require a 64-bit architecture. It is recommended to update to Xcode 26 well before the April 2026 deadline to avoid submission issues.
- App Store Submission: As of April 2026, all new app submissions to the App Store must be built with Xcode 26 and the iOS 26 SDK.
- watchOS: watchOS apps will also need to be built with the watchOS 26 SDK and have 64-bit support included.
- Preparation: It is crucial to prepare and transition your build workflows to Xcode 26 before the April 2026 deadline to prevent build failures and submission rejections.