Apple has announced its next major software update, iOS 26, which brings a significant design overhaul and several new features. The update, previously expected to be called iOS 19, is set to release in the fall for iPhone users.
The biggest change comes from Apple’s new “Liquid Glass” design language, introduced across all devices, including the iPhone. This design features translucency, real-time rendering, and motion-activated effects that mimic glass. The update will affect various parts of the operating system, including apps, buttons, sliders, and the Control Center.
Messages is also getting a significant upgrade with customizable backgrounds, polls for group chats, and typing indicators to make conversations more lively. Additionally, Apple is introducing new features like call screening, Hold Assist, and unified layout options in the Phone app.
Other notable features include Live Translation, which translates text and speech in real-time during calls, and Visual Intelligence, allowing users to search and take action on visual content on their screen.
The update also includes a new Games app that serves as a centralized hub for iPhone games, with tabs for updates, events, Apple Arcade games, downloaded apps, and friend activity.
Source: https://www.theverge.com/news/683738/apple-iphone-ios-26-changes-liquid-glass-wwdc-2025