What is iOS 26?
Apple announced “Apple iOS 26” on June 9, 2025, at WWDC, changing to a year-based versioning system instead of using numbers like “iOS 19.”
Developer betas are available now. A public beta will be out in July 2025, with the full version coming in September when the iPhone 17 is released.
iPhones with the A13 Bionic chip or newer can use this update, starting from the iPhone 11, including the SE models with a home button. However, some advanced features need the A17 Pro chip found in the iPhone 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max, and the upcoming iPhone 16 series.
1. Major Features & Enhancements
Liquid Glass Design Language is a new look that features see-through, shiny UI parts like icons and panels that change based on their background.
It takes inspiration from the visual style of visionOS and adds depth and brightness to iOS, iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, and visionOS, making them look modern.
2. Apple Intelligence (AI-Powered Capabilities)
- Live Translation on Phone and FaceTime: See and hear translations instantly.
- Visual Intelligence + ChatGPT: Smart suggestions based on what’s on screen.
- Smart Summarization: Summarizes delivery info even without Apple Pay.
- Writing Tools: Rewriting, proofreading, summarizing, and table creation built-in.
3. Refreshed Core Apps
Phone:
Redesigned UI combining Favorites, Recents, Voicemail. Adds Call Screening and Hold Assist to manage spam/waiting calls.
Messages:
- Polls, custom backgrounds between users, group typing indicators
- AI-based text screening for unknown senders
- Genmoji – create custom emojis via AI
Maps:
On-device AI learns your daily routes, notifies delays, suggests alternatives. Adds airport navigation + boarding pass support.
Apple Music:
Real-time synced lyrics, translations, pronunciation tools, and new DJ-style AutoMix.
Games:
New Apple Games hub (combines App Store + Arcade titles), event tracking, re-engagement reminders.
Wallet:
More support for TSA/state digital IDs (9 states now supported).
Camera & Safari:
Cleaner UI and edge-to-edge browsing in Safari.
Also Read: Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max Price in India Leaked – Shocking Hike & New Features!
4. Battery & Performance Intelligence
- Adaptive Power Mode: Learns your habits and saves energy smartly.
- Battery Insights: Shows usage per app + optimization tips for longer life.
Compatibility & Hardware Requirements
| Feature | Requires A13+ | Requires A17 Pro+ |
|---|---|---|
| Core OS & Liquid Glass | Compatible with iPhone 11+ | |
| Apple Intelligence basics | Some features on A13+ | Broad support with A17 Pro |
| Live Translate, Visual AI | Limited/none | Full suite |
Older A13–A16 devices receive the design overhaul, UI refreshes, and most app enhancements, but premium AI features are limited to A17 Pro and newer devices.
User & Design Community Reactions
Mixed reviews on Liquid Glass:
- Some people love the smooth, translucent design.
- Others find it hard to read and less functional.
Positive feedback for privacy & AI:
- Call Screening and Hold Assist praised for dealing with spam/scam calls.
- Apple Intelligence seen as a breakthrough with translation, summaries, and text tools.
Developer & Tech News:
- Wired and The Verge call it the biggest iOS redesign since iOS 7.
Should You Upgrade?
Yes, if you want:
- A modern design with translucent elements across Apple platforms
- AI tools for translation, typing, calls, and battery efficiency
- Smarter battery insights and power-saving modes
Keep expectations in check with:
- A13–A16 iPhones — no advanced Apple Intelligence features
- Liquid Glass may reduce readability — test the beta before final update
Conclusion – Apple IOS 26
Apple iOS 26 brings a new chapter for iPhones — sleek visual design and smarter features. With Apple Intelligence and updates across major apps, the experience feels more personal and efficient.
While the design may divide opinions, improvements in performance, battery life, and AI make it a worthwhile upgrade — especially if you own a newer iPhone.
What to Do Next
- Developers & enthusiasts: Try the Public Beta in July 2025
- General users: Expect full rollout in September with iPhone 17
- Want AI features? Make sure your iPhone has the A17 Pro chip or newer