Apple’s iOS 26 update, unveiled at the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) 2025, introduces a comprehensive redesign and a suite of new features aimed at enhancing user experience and integrating advanced AI capabilities.

🖌️ Liquid Glass Design Overhaul

iOS 26 introduces a significant visual transformation with the “Liquid Glass” design, inspired by Apple’s visionOS. This aesthetic features translucent, rounded elements that dynamically adjust to light and movement, providing a more immersive and content-focused interface. The design extends across the Home Screen, Lock Screen, Control Center, and system-wide navigation, creating a cohesive look across all Apple platforms .

🧠 Apple Intelligence Enhancements

Apple Intelligence receives substantial upgrades in iOS 26, offering smarter and more intuitive features:

• Live Translation: Real-time translation of voice and text during calls and FaceTime conversations, enhancing communication across languages.
• Visual Intelligence: Integration with ChatGPT allows users to interact with on-screen content for contextual assistance.
• Genmoji: Create personalized emojis by combining existing ones or using text prompts.
• Image Playground: Generate AI-powered images in various artistic styles, including anime, watercolor, and oil painting .

These features are optimized for iPhone 15 Pro models and newer, leveraging the A17 Pro chip’s capabilities.

📱 App and System Updates

• Messages: Enhanced group chat functionalities with customizable backgrounds, polls, and Apple Cash integration.
• Phone: Introduction of “Call Screening” to filter unknown callers and “Hold Assist” for smoother call transitions.
• Apple Music: “AutoMix” feature for seamless song transitions and in-line lyrics translation with pronunciation guides.
• Maps: On-device intelligence suggests preferred routes and notifies users of delays.
• Apple Wallet: New travel features, including airport interior maps and digital passport support in select regions.
• Apple Games: A unified hub for all gaming activities, integrating App Store, Apple Arcade, and Game Center features .

🚗 CarPlay Innovations

CarPlay receives notable enhancements in iOS 26:

• Smart Display Zoom: Automatically adjusts the interface to fit various screen sizes and orientations in vehicles.
• AirPlay Video Streaming: Allows users to stream video content from their iPhone to the car’s display, available only when the vehicle is parked for safety.
• CarPlay Ultra: A premium version offering advanced controls for vehicle functions, currently supported by select brands like Aston Martin .

🔋 Battery and Performance

iOS 26 introduces an “Adaptive Power” mode that dynamically adjusts performance settings, such as screen brightness and background activity, to extend battery life during periods of high usage .