Apple has officially previewed iOS 26, and it’s packed with powerful updates, smart features, and a brand-new look. The new version is coming this fall. It brings together beauty, speed, and intelligence. These features are designed to make your iPhone smarter and more helpful than ever.
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Here’s a full breakdown of the top features of iOS 26 in simple terms.
1. Brand New Design with Liquid Glass
Say hello to Liquid Glass, a smooth and shiny design that makes your screen look more natural and clean. App icons now have clear, vibrant colors and react to your wallpaper. The Lock Screen also gets a 3D effect, making your photos pop.
- Updated app icons in light, dark, and color-tinted themes
- Time on the lock screen moves around your photo to stay in focus
2. Visual Intelligence: Smarter Screen Search
Your iPhone now understands what’s on your screen. You can point at something and ask questions about it. You can add it to your calendar. You can also search for related information without switching apps.
- Recognizes photos, texts, and app content
- Gives quick suggestions like translations or event creation
3. Apple Intelligence Built In
Apple Intelligence is the brain behind many new features in iOS 26. It helps you:
- Translate messages and FaceTime conversations live
- Create unique images using emojis and AI styles
- Summarize texts and help with shortcuts in the Shortcuts app
4. More Fun in Messages
Apple has made chatting more exciting with:
- Polls: Ask friends to vote on dinner, travel, or movies
- Backgrounds: Add fun photos or themes to your chat window
- Live Translation: Instantly translate texts in different languages
5. Say Goodbye to Spam and Interruptions
Your iPhone now filters calls and texts better than ever:
- Call Screening: iPhone answers unknown calls and asks who’s calling
- Hold Assist: It waits on hold and tells you when a human joins the call
- Message Filters: Blocks spam and unknown senders automatically
6. Maps That Learn Your Routine
Maps can now learn your regular routes and alert you about traffic delays before you even leave home. Plus, a new Visited Places feature helps you remember and share your favorite spots.
7. Music & Media Get Smarter
- AutoMix in Apple Music: Like a DJ, your phone blends songs together smoothly
- Lyrics Translation: Understand songs in other languages instantly
8. Wallet & Games
- Create a Digital ID using your U.S. passport for use at airports and apps
- New Games App tracks your scores, achievements, and friends’ favorite games
9. CarPlay Upgrades
In CarPlay, you can now:
- React with Tapbacks in Messages
- Follow Live Activities like flights or sports scores
- See more info with widgets and map updates
10. Smarter Everyday Apps
- Photos App: New layout with Library and Collections tabs
- Reminders: Suggests tasks and groceries using Apple Intelligence
- Clock: Customize snooze duration between 1 and 15 minutes
- Journal: Create multiple journals with photo support and map view
11. Accessibility Upgrades
iOS 26 brings better tools for everyone:
- Braille-first experience
- Vehicle Motion Cues to reduce travel sickness
- Better reading and voice options for more users
12. Supported Devices
iOS 26 is compatible with a wide range of iPhone:
- iPhone 11 to iPhone 16 series
- iPhone SE (2nd gen and later)
- iPhone 12, 13, 14, and 15 models, including Pro and mini versions
