iOS 26 Features Explained: Everything New in Apple’s Biggest Update
Apple has just released iOS 26, a major software update that completely changes the look and feel of the iPhone while introducing powerful AI capabilities. Here’s a breakdown of the most significant new features.
A Fresh New Design: "Liquid Glass"
iOS 26 introduces a new design language called "Liquid Glass," which gives the entire interface a sleek, translucent, and reflective look.
Fluid Animations: UI elements like app icons, widgets, and navigation bars have a glassy, see-through appearance that shifts with your movements.
Dynamic Lock Screen: The time on your Lock Screen intelligently adapts its position to your wallpaper, ensuring that the subject of your photo is never obscured.
Customizable Icons: App icons can be tinted with new colors or set to a light, dark, or clear "glass" appearance for a more minimalist Home Screen.
The Power of "Apple Intelligence"
The new on-device AI features, collectively known as "Apple Intelligence," are deeply integrated across the system.
Genmoji and Image Playground: Create custom emojis (Genmoji) and images from text descriptions. You can mix existing emojis or describe a new character.
Live Translation: This feature provides real-time translation for text in Messages, translated captions during FaceTime calls, and spoken translations for Phone calls. It can even work with AirPods for hands-free conversations.
Visual Intelligence: Use your camera or screen to learn more about what you're viewing. For example, you can get details on a product you see in a photo or turn a list in an email into a set of Reminders.
Adaptive Power Mode: On compatible iPhone models (15 Pro and newer), this feature intelligently balances performance and battery life for demanding tasks like gaming, extending your device's charge.
Major App Upgrades
Core apps have been redesigned and enhanced with new features.
Messages: Personalize conversations with dynamic backgrounds, create polls in group chats, and see who is typing in a group conversation. Messages from unknown numbers are now automatically filtered into a separate list.
Phone:
Call Screening: Intercept calls from unknown numbers, asking the caller for their name and reason before your phone rings.
Hold Assist: Have your iPhone wait on hold for you and notify you when a live agent is on the line.
Camera: The interface has been simplified, grouping controls to make it easier to adjust settings on the fly.
Maps: The app now learns your preferred routes and can notify you of traffic delays or road closures before you leave.
Photos: The app is reorganized with new tabs for Library and Collections, making it easier to navigate and organize your photos.
Preview: The powerful macOS Preview app is now available on iPhone for viewing, editing, and sharing PDFs and images.
Games: A new central app to track your games, discover new ones, and compete with friends.
