Apple has released the latest version of its smartphone operating system, and it’s a big one. So big that they’ve jumped the naming to iOS 26.
iOS 26 is considered to be the biggest iteration of the software in a decade. We got drastic visual changes, led by Apple’s new ‘Liquid Glass’ design language. Let’s deep dive and list the new features you can expect from the latest iPhone update.
Liquid Glass
Apple’s new Liquid Glass design language aims to unify the look of its operating systems — from iOS, iPadOS, watchOS, and even tvOS. It has transparent, crystal-like elements and a more dynamic response to touches.
Liquid Glass is prominent on the Lock Screen, which also features a new adaptive time widget that blends well with your wallpaper and the number of your incoming notifications.
This transparent look is prominent throughout the whole interface. From the app icons, navigation controls, widgets, Messages, and more.
Revamped Camera and Photos app
Apple has finally addressed its cluttered and confusing Photos app and updated it with separate tabs for Library and Collection Views.
The Camera app has been drastically simplified. The modes are now at the very bottom with the shutter/record button and lens switcher floating in the frame, perfect for 16:9 shots.
Improved text and call screening for spam
Spam is still a big problem, especially in markets like the Philippines. iOS 26 can now filter spam texts and segregate them to a special bin, so all you see on your message list are from real people and entities.
iOS 26’s call screening is pretty smart. When you receive a call from an unknown number, the iPhone will only ring if the person on the line provides their name and reason why they are calling.
Another cool feature is called Hold Assist, which will stay on the line for you when you’re on hold and will ping you once someone answers. Perfect for calling service hotlines.
New features in Messages
iOS 26 brings tons of new features to Messages. With the update, group chats gain a polls feature, customizable backgrounds on conversations, and users can now send, request, and receive Apple Cash from group chats.
Enhanced CarPlay
CarPlay is finally getting additional features with iOS 26. The new look has been carried over, of course. Tapbacks lets you reply to messages quickly with emojis, conversations are pinned in Messages, widgets and live activities are now present, and incoming calls don’t take up the whole screen anymore.
Apple also debuted CarPlay Ultra, which offers extensive controls for your vehicle. Albeit it’s suitable for vehicles.
Other notable improvements include Live Translations on calls, Visual Intelligence within Siri for visual searches similar to Google’s Circle to Search, while the new Games app is a hub for all your games and friends you play with.
iOS 26 is now available for developer beta testing and will be widely available by September. It will support iPhones from the 2nd-gen iPhone SE and iPhone 11 series.