Apple has unveiled iOS 26, a transformative update that brings a visually rich design, powerful Apple Intelligence capabilities, and improved features in key apps like Phone, Messages, and Safari. Introduced during Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) 2025, the update is expected to roll out in September.
Liquid Glass Redesign: A Stunning New UI
The heart of iOS 26’s visual upgrade lies in its “Liquid Glass” interface—a translucent material that reflects and refracts light, creating a vibrant, dynamic experience across the system. This new aesthetic modernizes:
Home Screen & Lock Screen: With adaptive 3D wallpapers, fluid clock placement, and clear-style widgets and icons.
Camera App: A simplified layout to help users focus on moments they’re capturing.
Photos App: New Library and Collections tabs improve navigation.
Safari: Streamlined scrolling from top to bottom keeps content front and center.
Music, News & Podcasts: Floating tab bars that expand and collapse as users scroll, enhancing immersion.
Apple has also released new APIs that allow developers to adopt Liquid Glass elements, bringing third-party apps into this dynamic visual ecosystem.
Apple Intelligence: Smarter and Private
Built with a privacy-first foundation, Apple Intelligence unlocks intuitive on-device AI capabilities:
Live Translation in Phone, Messages, and FaceTime, enabling seamless real-time audio and text translation—entirely offline.
Visual Intelligence lets users take action based on screen content, like identifying events to add to Calendar, or shopping similar items across supported apps.
Genmoji & Image Playground allow users to generate fun, personalized emojis and images using a mix of text, emoji, and AI descriptions.
Order Summaries from email are now auto-compiled in-app, even for purchases outside Apple Pay.
A new Foundation Models framework gives developers direct access to the on-device AI models—privacy-respecting, offline-capable, and free.
Smarter Shortcuts
Apple has supercharged Shortcuts with intelligent actions that adapt based on user context. New suggestions for image editing, text generation, and message replies streamline daily routines using Apple Intelligence.
Enhanced Phone and Messaging Experience
Apple is doubling down on communication tools:
Phone App: A unified view for Favorites, Recents, and Voicemail.
Call Screening: Like a native Truecaller, it captures caller intent in real time, helping users avoid spam and scams.
Hold Assist: Alerts users when a real agent finally picks up, saving time on hold.
Messages also gets significant updates:
Message Screening: Unknown senders are filtered into a dedicated folder for user approval.
Poll Creation: Apple Intelligence detects when a poll would be helpful and suggests creating one.
Custom Backgrounds: AI-generated chat themes that match conversation tone or topic.
Typing Indicators in Groups and easier Apple Cash transfers directly within group chats.
Other Notable Updates
Apple Games App: A new hub for all gaming activity, achievements, and Arcade titles.
Apple Maps, Wallet, and CarPlay also receive subtle enhancements, increasing functionality across the ecosystem.
Craig Federighi, Apple’s Senior VP of Software Engineering, said,
“Experiences are more expressive and personal—from the Lock Screen and Home Screen to new capabilities across Phone and Messages… With Apple Intelligence, users can get things done easier than ever.”
With iOS 26, Apple doesn’t just iterate—it redefines how iPhones look, feel, and think.
