Apple has officially unveiled iOS 26 during the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) 2025, and it’s clear that the tech giant is going all-in on design and artificial intelligence. With the introduction of a brand-new look called Liquid Glass, and a host of smart features, iOS 26 is being seen as Apple’s most significant iPhone update in years.
Apple Launches iOS 26 with a Fresh Design and Liquid Glass Interface
One of the most noticeable changes in iOS 26 is the introduction of the Liquid Glass design system. Apple has replaced its long-standing flat UI with a more fluid, translucent, and interactive appearance. Buttons, widgets, and notification panels now react to light and movement, giving the interface a more “alive” feeling. It brings a modern, futuristic vibe to the iPhone, and many are comparing the update to the dramatic shift from iOS 6 to iOS 7.
This design isn’t just about looks—it’s also focused on usability. Widgets on the lock screen and home screen are more interactive, and animations across the OS feel smoother and more natural. Control Centre has also received a refresh, with easier access to frequently used tools.
Smart Features Powered by AI
iOS 26 marks Apple’s next big step into AI, branding these updates under “Apple Intelligence.” A standout feature is Visual Intelligence, which allows users to interact with content in their screenshots and photos. For example, you can tap on a photo of a product to get details, pricing, or shop online. Or tap on a screenshot of an address to directly open Maps or get directions.
The Messages app has received a lot of attention too. You can now generate custom emojis using AI, called Genmoji, personalise chat backgrounds, and even create polls inside conversations. Apple has also introduced Message Filters using AI, which can automatically sort your messages—personal, work, spam, and so on.
Siri, however, did not get a complete AI overhaul in this version. While minor improvements are coming, Apple has delayed its full AI-powered Siri update until 2026. This includes advanced capabilities like summarising your recent activity or performing complex tasks across multiple apps.
Better Phone Experience
Apple has finally added features Indian users have long been waiting for. The new Call Screening feature lets your iPhone answer unknown calls on your behalf, and show you a real-time transcript—very useful in avoiding spam or telemarketing calls. Another smart addition is Hold Assist, which can stay on hold for you and alert you once a human picks up the call—ideal for customer care calls or service requests.
The Phone app has also been redesigned to combine call history, voicemails, and contacts into a cleaner, unified layout.
Battery, Travel, and Everyday Improvements
Battery life has been a consistent concern for iPhone users, and Apple seems to have listened. iOS 26 introduces Adaptive Power Mode, which adjusts performance and background activity based on your daily habits. You’ll also be able to see real-time battery usage per app, and even get an estimate of how long your battery will last.
For frequent travellers, Apple Maps now comes with a new feature called Visited Places, which automatically logs locations you’ve been to. There’s also improved boarding pass support, airport navigation, and digital ID functionality for U.S. travellers—though Indian users may have to wait for such ID integration.
AirPods users are getting something new too—a remote camera trigger. Now you can tap and hold the AirPods stem to click a photo or record a video on your iPhone, hands-free.
Compatibility and Rollout
iOS 26 will be released to developers first, with a public beta coming in July 2025. The final version will launch this September, alongside the iPhone 17 series. However, not all devices will support the update. Apple is dropping support for older models like the iPhone XR, XS, and XS Max. Devices from iPhone 11 onwards will get most of the new features.
Final Thoughts
iOS 26 feels like a true next-generation update. With its bold new design, focus on artificial intelligence, and everyday usability improvements, it shows that Apple is preparing the iPhone for the AI-driven future. While some features—especially advanced Siri AI—are delayed, the current changes are still a major leap forward.
For Indian users, features like Call Screening, adaptive battery, and visual interaction with content are bound to be game changers. Whether you’re a casual user or a tech enthusiast, iOS 26 is definitely worth looking forward to.
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