What’s New in iOS 26: Apple’s Most Dramatic Update in Years

Introduction
Apple’s newest update, iOS 26, represents the largest overhaul to the iPhone’s look and feel since iOS 7. Unveiled at WWDC 2025, iOS 26 brings a fresh “Liquid Glass” visual design, powerful on‑device AI, enhanced apps, better phone controls, and much more. Whether you’re a casual user or tech enthusiast, this guide breaks down everything you need to know about iOS 26 — from what’s new to how to get it.

1. Release Schedule & Device Compatibility

• Developer beta launched at WWDC on June 9, 2025.
• Public beta expected in July.
• Full public release targeted for Fall 2025, likely mid‑September alongside iPhone 17.

Compatible Devices:

iOS 26 supports iPhones with A13 Bionic or newer — that means:

• iPhone 11, SE (2nd gen), 12/13/14/15/16 series.
  Models like XR, XS, and XS Max are dropped .

2. Liquid Glass Redesign

The redesigned UI introduces “Liquid Glass”, a transparent, refractive UI layer inspired by visionOS:

• Interface elements now feature dynamic transparency, blurs, and light refraction.
• This design updates buttons, controls, icons, notifications, and widgets across iOS 26.
• It marks the first major redesign since iOS 7, refreshing the look while preserving familiarity.

3. Apple Intelligence & AI Features

iOS 26 is packed with on‑device AI, designed for both privacy and power:

• Live Translation works in calls, FaceTime, and Messages, supporting real-time multilingual communication.
• Visual Intelligence uses image recognition of screen content for smart actions.
• ChatGPT integration in Image Playground enables AI-generated art and Genmoji creation.
• Shortcuts and Foundation Models Framework allow third-party apps to embed AI features.
• Adaptive Power Mode in Settings automatically tweaks battery settings based on usage.

Note: Full AI capabilities require iPhone 15 Pro/16 Pro with A17 Pro chip.

4. Updated Core Apps

Messages & Phone

• Polls, custom backgrounds, funds via Apple Cash, and better unknown-message handling.
• Call Screening with “Hold Assist” robot waits on hold for you.
• Incoming-call notifications are compact and non-disruptive .

Camera & Photos

• Spatial 3D photos add depth that responds to your movement.
• Photos app reverts to a tab-based layout and adds parallax and spatial effects.

Apple Music & Games

• Music app gains AutoMix, lyric translations, and karaoke support.
• New Games app centralizes App Store & Apple Arcade titles, along with social features.

Wallet, Maps, Safari

• Wallet adds airport maps for boarding passes .
• Maps features Visited Places and commute suggestions.
• Safari 26 adopts the Liquid Glass aesthetic with a compact interface.

5. Accessibility Enhancements

iOS 26 includes major accessibility upgrades:

• Braille display support and Accessibility Reader across the system.
• Enhanced Live Listen, Background Sounds, and Personal Voice improvements.

6. CarPlay & Driving Experience

• CarPlay gets the same Liquid Glass treatment, with compact incoming-call UI and minimized distractions .
• Expanded app and widget compatibility in CarPlay.

7. Performance & Battery Optimization

iOS 26’s Adaptive Power Mode adjusts brightness and performance to conserve battery.
With Apple Intelligence running on-device, iOS 26 aims to maintain fast, fluid performance across compatible devices.

Conclusion

With iOS 26, Apple delivers its most sweeping update in over a decade. The bold Liquid Glass design redefines visual aesthetics across the iPhone UI. Meanwhile, powerful on-device AI—including live translation, visual context tools, and creativity features like Genmoji—pushes iOS into a new era. Enhanced apps, improved calls and messaging, and accessibility upgrades solidify iOS 26 as a major leap forward. Rolling out in three stages—developer beta, public beta, and fall 2025 release—it’s a must-upgrade for users with supported iPhones.

FAQs

1. When will iOS 26 release?

• Developer beta: June 9, 2025
• Public beta: July 2025
• Full release: Fall 2025 (likely mid‑September)

2. Which iPhones support iOS 26?
iPhone 11, SE (2nd gen), and newer. Models like XR, XS, and XS Max aren’t supported.

3. What’s “Liquid Glass” in iOS 26?
A dynamic, translucent UI effect with glass-like blur and light refraction used across system elements.

4. Does iOS 26 have AI features?
Yes — including live translation, visual intelligence, on-device ChatGPT integration, Genmoji, AutoMix, and more.

5. When should I install the public iOS 26 beta?
Expect the public beta in July 2025. If you’re on the developer beta and encounter issues, wait until the public beta (generally more stable) or the fall release.