As anticipation builds for the iPhone 17 models, Apple is also setting the stage for significant changes in its software with the upcoming iOS 26. A striking feature is the new Liquid Glass interface, which promises a fresh design across all Apple products. The upgrades extend to the Camera and Photos applications, now boasting long-awaited redesigns, while the Messages and Phone apps gear up to tackle unwanted communications more effectively. In an era where features like Siri have faced delays, Apple Intelligence is stepping in with vital enhancements.
Transparent New Liquid Glass Design
The iPhone is set for a radical visual transformation after years of a flat interface introduced in iOS 7. iOS 26 pushes boundaries with the Liquid Glass interface, allowing app icons on the home screen to adopt a transparent appearance. In addition to the existing Light and Dark modes, users can now opt for an All Clear look, featuring see-through icons. Lock screens will also receive a 3D effect by utilizing spatial scenes, which leverage machine learning for added depth.
Dynamic and Adaptable Lock Screen
The Liquid Glass design’s translucency enhances how controls interact with the background. The “liquid” aspect means controls morph dynamically based on context. For instance, the lock screen numerals can stretch and shrink to accommodate incoming notifications, while rounded, glassy panels elevate the overall aesthetic.
Camera and Photos Apps Go More Minimal
With a newly simplified design, the Camera app transitions to a minimalistic layout focusing solely on essential features. Users can easily toggle between Video and Photo modes, and access additional settings with simple swipes. The Photos app revamps its interface to restore clarity, shifting the menu to a Liquid Glass design that enhances the viewing experience.
The Phone App Gets a Revamp
With a fresh look and practical updates, the Phone app aims to enhance call handling. The Call Screening feature filters calls from unknown numbers, ringing only when the caller provides their name. Additionally, the Hold Assist function detects hold music and mutes it, notifying users when an agent is available, thus eliminating time wasted on hold.
Messages Updates
Recognizing the importance of staying organized, iOS 26 introduces the ability to customize chat backgrounds and even incorporate polls in group messages. Moreover, advanced spam detection helps users filter unwanted texts, ensuring a cleaner messaging environment.
Safari Gets Out of Its Own Way
In Safari, the innovative Liquid Glass design elevates the tab bar, making it easier to navigate. As users scroll, the tab bar seamlessly adjusts in size, creating a more user-friendly browsing experience.
FaceTime Focuses on Calls, Not Controls
FaceTime blesses users with a cleaner interface where controls fade away during calls for an undistracted experience. The landing page is also more visually appealing, with contact images and video clips enhancing interaction.
New Music App Features
Music lovers will rejoice as the Music app adds new lyric translation features, helping users sing along in different languages. AutoMix creates a DJ-like experience with smooth transitions between songs, while users can now pin favorite artists for quick access.
New Games App Highlights Mobile Gaming
Addressing the popularity of gaming on iPhones, the new Games app simplifies access to Apple Arcade and other games, reducing barriers and enhancing the gaming experience.
Live Translation Enhances Calls and Texts
Introducing live translation capabilities, communication with speakers of different languages is becoming seamless on the iPhone through Messages, FaceTime, and Phone apps, ensuring smoother conversations without language barriers.
Maps Gets More Personal
The Maps app now tracks frequently traveled routes and offers timely alerts for delays. A feature that organizes visited places helps users easily recall their favorite spots, improving navigation and planning.
New CarPlay Features
Liquid Glass enhances CarPlay functionality, providing compact call notifications while maintaining visibility of maps. The incorporation of widgets allows users to display customized information, making driving safer and more efficient.
Wallet Improvements
The Wallet app expands its capabilities, allowing users to create a Digital ID for age verification while traveling domestically. Users can track product orders easily, even for purchases made outside of Apple Pay, enhancing convenience.
New Features Powered by Apple Intelligence
Though less emphasized this year, advancements in Apple Intelligence continue to enrich iOS 26. Users can create unique emojis by combining existing ones, while features like Image Playground expand creative opportunities. Improved Visual Intelligence now makes understanding screen content easier, enhancing everyday usability.
Some iOS 26 Updates Apple Didn’t Mention
Several intriguing features slipped under the radar during the keynote. Users will enjoy personalized alarm snooze durations, enhanced audio recording options, and user-friendly accessibility features aimed at improving the overall experience on their devices.
iOS 26 Availability
The complete version of iOS 26 will roll out alongside the new iPhone 17 models in September or October. Developer betas are already available, with public beta releases expected soon.
iPhone Models Compatible with iOS 26
iOS 26 will support iPhone 11 and newer models, including:
- iPhone 16e
- iPhone 16
- iPhone 16 Plus
- iPhone 16 Pro
- iPhone 16 Pro Max
- iPhone 15
- iPhone 15 Plus
- iPhone 15 Pro
- iPhone 15 Pro Max
- iPhone 14
- iPhone 14 Plus
- iPhone 14 Pro
- iPhone 14 Pro Max
- iPhone 13
- iPhone 13 mini
- iPhone 13 Pro
- iPhone 13 Pro Max
- iPhone 12
- iPhone 12 mini
- iPhone 12 Pro
- iPhone 12 Pro Max
- iPhone 11
- iPhone 11 Pro
- iPhone 11 Pro Max
- iPhone SE (2nd generation and later)