iOS 26 Features Guide | What is iOS 26?
iOS 26 represents a big shift in more than just name. This version of Apple’s operating system introduces a number of updates that change up the iOS experience, and our experts are here to detail what to expect.
Enjoy iOS 26 for yourself with a compatible handset from our extensive collection of Apple smartphones.
Release date
iOS 26 is expected to release in September 2025.
iOS 26 compatible phones
• iPhone 16e
• iPhone 16
• iPhone 16 Plus
• iPhone 16 Pro
• iPhone 16 Pro Max
• iPhone 15
• iPhone 15 Plus
• iPhone 15 Pro
• iPhone 15 Pro Max
• iPhone 14
• iPhone 14 Plus
• iPhone 14 Pro
• iPhone 14 Pro Max
• iPhone 13
• iPhone 13 mini
• iPhone 13 Pro
• iPhone 13 Pro Max
• iPhone 12
• iPhone 12 mini
• iPhone 12 Pro
• iPhone 12 Pro Max
• iPhone 11
• iPhone 11 Pro
• iPhone 11 Pro Max
• iPhone SE (2nd generation and later)
iOS 26 features
Liquid Glass
The Liquid Glass update brings a fresh look to the familiar iOS design. This feature adds a translucent effect to menus and icons, fluidly adapted for each area of iOS to tie everything together. Icons can also be colour tinted to make them easier to distinguish.
Aesthetics aren’t the only updates brought about by Liquid Glass. The clock on the Lock Screen can adapt its position depending on the wallpaper that’s used, so the subject is always in view. iPhone 12 and later handsets can also add a 3D effect to wallpapers for even more personalisation.
Improved Apple Intelligence
We’ve been impressed by Apple’s AI suite since it landed in 2024, and iOS 26 builds on the excellent foundations already in place. Live Translation makes it much easier to communicate with people in different languages in Messages or FaceTime, and it can even translate calls in real time. Shortcuts are also more intelligent, with greater options for summarising text or crafting images.
Apple Intelligence on iOS 26 weaves ChatGPT more intricately into the experience, too. This is evident in features like Image Playground, where you can leverage ChatGPT to create a wider variety of images from your photo library and more.
Call Screening
Managing your calls is far easier with iOS 26. If someone is trying to get in touch but you don’t recognise the number, Call Screening can answer for you and request a reason for the call. iOS 26 is also far better at detecting spam numbers and helping you manage your call history.
We also appreciate the Hold Assist feature; if you’re in a queue to speak to someone, your iPhone will let you know when you get through so you can go about your business in the meantime.
Maps
Do you often travel via the same route when going to work or visiting family? The Maps feature in iOS 26 can intelligently learn the route and let you know of any delays. It’s also far better at recognising when your route changes to reduce any potential headaches.
Visited Places is another addition to the Maps app. If there’s a place to eat you would recommend from your travels, you can share it with friends without having to do a Google search.
AutoMix and Lyrics Translation
Music lovers are sure to enjoy the AutoMix feature in iOS 26. Baked into the Apple Music app, AutoMix uses AI to seamlessly blend songs like a professional DJ with accurate beat matching and time stretching. Each track flows into the next rather than abruptly ending, providing a more immersive music experience.
If there’s a song you enjoy in a different language, Lyrics Translation will explain the meaning of lyrics as you listen. This all adds up to a significant enhancement of Apple Music on iOS 26 compared to previous versions.
Updated Games app
Apple leaned heavily into gaming with services such as Apple Arcade, and with the updated Games app in iOS 26, it’s much easier to keep track of your iPhone games library.
When opening the Games app, you’ll see what games you own, events that are currently running in those games, and any achievements you’ve unlocked so far. The app will also recommend games based on your preferences, opening up opportunities to find a new favourite.
Accessibility and family controls
iOS 26 supports more accessibility options, enabling a wider range of users to enjoy its improved features. This includes navigation controls for braille users and those who suffer from motion sickness while on-the-go.
Parents can also shift children to Child Accounts more easily compared to previous versions of iOS, as well as apply tighter limits on communication or when accessing the App Store.
That was everything you need to know about iOS 26 and what it can offer. If you’re picking up a new iPhone and need to move your old data across, our expert guide will show you how.