Apple has officially unveiled iOS 26, and it’s more than just an incremental update. With the introduction of a stunning new UI called Liquid Glass, smarter AI features, and revamped native apps, iOS 26 marks a major evolution in the iPhone ecosystem.
Whether you’re an iPhone power user or simply curious about what’s next for your device, this guide dives deep into the most important updates, features, and compatibility information you need.
iOS 26: A Leap in Design and Functionality
What is iOS 26?
Apple is skipping ahead in version numbers — from iOS 18 straight to iOS 26 — to align its OS versioning with the upcoming year (2026). This jump also reflects the magnitude of updates Apple is delivering across iOS, macOS, iPadOS, and watchOS.
Liquid Glass: A Bold New Look
The headline feature of iOS 26 is Liquid Glass, a new UI design language that brings transparent, fluid-like aesthetics to the iPhone. Home and lock screens are getting a full refresh with customizable transparency levels, adaptive light/dark modes, and redesigned buttons that appear to float.
Apple is aiming for visual consistency across all devices. Liquid Glass extends to macOS, iPadOS, and even Apple Watch, giving the entire Apple ecosystem a unified look.
Top Features in iOS 26
1. Phone App Redesign & Hold Assist
Apple has merged your contacts, recent calls, and voicemail into a single streamlined view. A standout addition is Hold Assist, which alerts you when someone finally picks up after you’ve been on hold — no more endless elevator music!
2. Live Translation
Live Translation now works across Phone, FaceTime, and Messages. If you’re talking to someone in another language, the app will translate your conversation in real time.
3. Polls in Group Chats
Creating a poll in a Messages group chat is now just a tap away. Whether you’re planning a trip or deciding on dinner, this feature helps everyone vote easily.
4. Smarter Spam Filters
Tired of fake toll messages or phishing scams? iOS 26 introduces smart filters for unknown senders, moving junk messages into a separate folder automatically.
5. Visual Intelligence: AI That Sees
Visual Intelligence is Apple’s answer to Google Lens. See something you like in a photo? Screenshot it, and your iPhone will identify and search for similar items online.
6. Revamped Photos App
The Library and Collections tabs are back, giving users a more intuitive way to navigate their memories. This feature brings back a beloved layout many users missed from earlier versions.
iOS 26 Compatible Devices
Not all iPhones will support iOS 26. Here’s a list of models that will be eligible:
iPhone SE (2nd gen or newer)
iPhone 11 and newer
iPhone 12 series
iPhone 13 series
iPhone 14 series
iPhone 15 series
iPhone 16 and 16 Pro series
The upcoming iPhone 17 series (expected in September 2025)
Devices like iPhone XR, XS, and XS Max will not be supported.
iOS 26 Beta and Release Date
The public beta of iOS 26 will be available in July 2025 via the Apple Beta Software Program. You can sign up at beta.apple.com.
The final release is expected in September 2025, likely within a week of the iPhone 17 launch event.
Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available Apple announcements and official WWDC 2025 highlights. Features may vary in the final release.
