Apple’s iOS 26 Brings Liquid Glass Design and Major Updates
In just over a month, Apple will release iOS 26, the next major iPhone software update. Currently, developers and public beta testers can try out early versions, with the final release expected this fall. The update introduces Liquid Glass, a fresh translucent design that changes the look of the home screen, lock screen, and system apps.
Liquid Glass is the biggest visual overhaul in years, giving apps and widgets a clear, floating appearance while adapting to light or dark mode. Some users have compared it to Windows Vista’s Aero design, but Apple has already tweaked it based on feedback, reducing transparency in certain areas. The new aesthetic will also appear in macOS Tahoe 26 and iPadOS 26, creating a more unified experience across Apple devices.
Key Features in iOS 26
Phone App Redesign: Contacts, recent calls, and voicemail are now accessible on a single screen. A new Hold Assist feature notifies users when a customer service agent picks up, so they can multitask while waiting.
Live Translation: Real-time translation is coming to Phone, FaceTime, and Messages, making it easier to communicate across languages.
Messages Upgrades: Group chats can now include polls for planning events, and spam texts will be filtered into a separate folder.
Visual Intelligence: A new search tool lets users find products or similar items by analyzing screenshots or photos.
Photos Tabs Return: After user complaints, Apple is bringing back separate Library and Collections tabs for easier navigation.
FaceTime Safety: A new feature pauses video if nudity is detected, aimed at protecting younger users with on-device processing.
Lock Screen Customization: More widgets, 3D wallpaper effects, and improved Focus mode options give users greater control over their lock screen.
iPadOS 26 Improvements
Multitasking: iPad users can now resize and move apps freely, enabling true windowed multitasking for the first time.
Visual Refresh: The Liquid Glass design extends to iPadOS, including lock screen and menu updates.
New Menu Bar: A swipe-down menu adds quick access to File, Edit, and other options, along with a search function.
AirPods Enhancements
Enhanced Audio Recording: AirPods now offer clearer audio capture in noisy environments.
Camera Remote: Users can take photos or start/stop video recording with a single tap on their AirPods, complete with a three-second countdown for photos.
Compatible Devices
Most iPhones released since 2019 will support iOS 26, including the iPhone 11 series and newer, as well as the iPhone SE (2nd gen or later). The iPhone XR, XS, and XS Max will not receive the update.
How to Try the Beta
The public beta is available through Apple’s Beta Software Program. Users can sign up at beta.apple.com and install the beta via Settings > General > Software Update. However, beta software may have bugs, so it’s best to avoid installing it on a primary device.
Final Release Date
iOS 26 will launch this fall, likely in September alongside new iPhone models. While Apple has delayed its smarter Siri upgrade to 2026, iOS 26 focuses on refining existing features and introducing the Liquid Glass design.
With each beta update, Apple adds more polish, making iOS 26 one of the most anticipated software releases in years.
