With the release of iOS 26 approaching on September 15th, a number of exciting new features are set to arrive. The update emphasizes a consistent design language throughout the OS, providing a unified experience. This new approach gives apps and controls a translucent aesthetic with optical qualities, with the aim of creating a sense of fluidity across Apple’s platforms.
Users can anticipate features such as a date and time font and design that dynamically adjusts to the wallpaper. Apps will sport a glass-like, translucent appearance. The home screen will showcase redesigned app icons, complete with light and dark mode options, color tinting, and clear design choices.
The Control Center components have been designed to react to their surroundings, refracting colors and shapes. Although designed for coherence, initial beta versions saw some users encounter issues with text legibility and icon visibility against transparent backgrounds.
Apple Intelligence integration will deliver several new intelligence features. Live Translation will translate text messages, provide live captions during FaceTime calls, and deliver spoken translations within the phone app.
Visual intelligence features will allow users to directly interact with content. Users will be able to add details to photos and events, integrating them into their calendar, or extract information from emails and convert it into reminders. This system will also enable cross-app search and image creation. The new Image Playground will empower users to create customized graphics through a blend of emojis and text descriptions. Personalized emojis will also be included.
Communication features will be enhanced with call screening, automated answering of unidentified numbers, and prompts for callers to state their name and purpose. Messages will have similar screening tools. The Hold and Assist feature will notify users when an agent answers their call. An improved message filter will also be included. Group chats will be able to use polls to facilitate decision-making.
Maps will feature increased intelligence, tracking travel plans and providing alerts about preferred routes. The app will adapt as travel routines change.
Apple Music will feature Auto Mix, blending songs using beat matching and time-stretching, and another feature will translate song lyrics, providing context for international music.
Eligible devices for iOS 26 include iPhone 11 and later, as well as the second-generation iPhone SE and newer. This includes the iPhone 12, 13, 14, 15, and 16 series, as well as the upcoming iPhone 17 and iPhone Air models. Note that not all features will be available globally at launch due to language and regional limitations.