Key Takeaways
- iOS 26 introduces the stunning Liquid Glass design, transforming the iPhone interface.
- Apple adds powerful AI features, including real-time translation and on-device intelligence.
- The redesigned Camera app offers smarter composition, remote shutter, and improved photo tools.
Apple has officially unveiled iOS 26, bringing one of the most significant updates to the iPhone operating system in years. While much of the early attention focused on the brand-new design called Liquid Glass, the real transformation lies in the advanced artificial intelligence features and major camera upgrades. This update combines beauty with powerful new functions that completely change how the iPhone operates.
Liquid Glass: A Bold New Look
The most noticeable change in is the introduction of the Liquid Glass design. This new visual style replaces the flat and simple interface seen in previous versions. Instead of plain colors and basic layers, Liquid Glass introduces a smooth, glass-like appearance that reacts to light, motion, and content.
Icons, widgets, toolbars, and the lock screen clock now appear as if they are floating under a layer of glass. These elements shift and change slightly depending on the background image, giving the entire interface a more dynamic and three-dimensional feel.
While this new look has been praised for its beauty, some users have expressed concerns about readability, especially when text appears over bright or colorful backgrounds. To address this issue, Apple included a new setting called “Reduce Transparency.” This setting allows users to tone down the and make text easier to read, while still keeping the fresh design.
Artificial Intelligence: Apple Intelligence Arrives
Beyond the design changes, iOS 26 makes major advancements in artificial intelligence. Apple introduces a powerful set of AI features under the name “Apple Intelligence.” These tools work quietly in the background, making the iPhone much smarter, faster, and more helpful in daily tasks.
Visual Intelligence
One of the standout AI features is Visual Intelligence. This tool can recognize and analyze images, text, and objects directly on the device. It allows users to search for information based on screenshots or photos without needing to type anything.
For example, a screenshot of a product can be used to search for similar items online. A calendar date or phone number in a photo can be detected and automatically added to the appropriate app. All of this happens directly on the device, protecting user privacy while delivering instant results.
AI-Powered Translation and Calls
Real-time translation is now built into Messages, FaceTime, and Phone apps. Conversations in different languages can be translated live, allowing people who speak different languages to communicate easily. These translations are handled completely on the iPhone, without sending data to external servers.
Phone calls also receive . Features like Call Screening and Hold Assist help manage incoming calls more efficiently. Spam calls can be blocked, and callers can leave messages that are transcribed instantly. When on hold, the AI can wait and notify when a human operator is available.
On-Device AI for Third-Party Apps
iOS 26 opens access to Apple’s AI models for third-party app developers. This means that other apps can now use the same advanced AI technology while keeping data private and secure. Developers can build smarter apps that better understand user needs while processing data directly on the iPhone.
Fun AI Features
Apple also adds some , such as Genmoji, which allows users to create custom emoji-like images by combining different elements. The Image Playground feature can generate unique images and artworks, offering creative options directly from the device. The Shortcuts app becomes more powerful as well, with AI helping to automate daily tasks more easily.
Major Camera Upgrades
The Camera app in iOS 26 receives a full redesign. The new layout removes clutter and focuses entirely on the viewfinder, allowing users to better see what they are capturing. Camera controls are hidden but easily accessible, making it simpler to adjust settings on the fly.
A new feature allows AirPods to act as remote shutters for the camera, making it easier to take group photos or selfies from a distance. This small but useful change adds convenience for everyday photography.
Behind the scenes, AI is also improving photo composition. The system now analyzes framing, lighting, and focus automatically, preparing for future intelligent photography tools. These tools are expected to help users take better photos with less effort.
Updates to Built-In Apps
Many of Apple’s built-in apps receive useful updates in iOS 26. Each app sees small but meaningful improvements that make everyday tasks easier and more enjoyable.
Messages
The Messages app now includes polls, allowing users to easily collect group opinions. Custom chat backgrounds, group typing indicators, and a separate inbox for unknown senders improve chat organization. Apple Cash payments can now be sent directly within the chat, simplifying financial transactions between friends and family.
Apple Music
Apple Music introduces AutoMix, which creates seamless transitions between songs. Lyrics can now be translated in real-time, and pronunciation guides help users sing along accurately. Karaoke features have been expanded, allowing the iPhone’s microphone to work with Apple TV for at-home karaoke sessions.
CarPlay
CarPlay adds new compact banners for notifications, message reactions, and Live Activities support. Widgets can now display real-time information directly on the car’s dashboard, improving the driving experience.
Games App
A new Games app organizes all installed games and provides a hub for Apple Arcade. Players can quickly find, launch, and manage their games from one central location.
Preview App
The Preview app now allows users to view, edit, and mark up PDF files and other documents directly on the iPhone, simplifying document management.
Adaptive Power Mode
A new Adaptive Power Mode automatically adjusts system performance and battery usage depending on activity, helping to extend battery life during periods of high use.
Device Compatibility and Release Schedule
iOS 26 supports iPhones released from 2019 onwards, beginning with the iPhone 11 and newer models. The developer beta version is already available. A public beta is expected to launch in July, with the full public release scheduled for September 2025, alongside the launch of the iPhone 17.
However, some of the most advanced Apple Intelligence features will only work on the latest hardware. These include the iPhone 15 Pro, the iPhone 16 series, and the upcoming iPhone 17. This hardware requirement ensures that the AI models operate at their full potential.
iOS 26 delivers one of the most ambitious updates in the history of the iPhone. While the Liquid Glass design captures attention with its elegant and modern look, the true power of this update lies in the deep integration of AI and camera improvements. From intelligent photo composition to real-time translation, Apple Intelligence transforms how users interact with their devices.
At the same time, everyday apps receive thoughtful updates that improve usability without overwhelming users. With powerful on-device AI, stronger privacy, and cutting-edge camera features, iOS 26 represents a major step forward in making the iPhone smarter, more helpful, and more personal than ever before.