At WWDC 2025, Apple officially unveiled iOS 26, a major update that brings a redesigned interface, advanced AI features, and app enhancements across the board.
Liquid Glass: A New Design Language
iOS 26 debuts the Liquid Glass aesthetic, inspired by visionOS. The interface now features semi-transparent layers, dynamic light refraction, and smooth reflections. This design language will unify the look of iOS, iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, and tvOS for a more cohesive experience.
Apple Intelligence Enhancements
Apple Intelligence is now more deeply integrated into the system, introducing:
- Visual Intelligence: Context-aware suggestions and actions based on on-screen content.
- Live Translation: Real-time translations in conversations and messages.
- Genmoji: AI-generated personalized emojis.
- Foundation Models API: Developers can now use Apple’s on-device AI models in their apps.
App Improvements
Key apps have received smart upgrades:
Key apps have received smart upgrades:
- Phone: Smart call filtering and "Hold Assist" for automated waiting.
- Messages: Group typing indicators, backgrounds, polls, inline translations, and Apple Cash payments in group chats.
- Maps: Custom routes and indoor navigation for airports.
- Apple Music: Auto-generated mixes, lyric translation, and pronunciation practice.
- Wallet: Digital ID support at TSA checkpoints in 9 U.S. states.
Availability and Device Support
iOS 26 is available in developer beta immediately, with a public beta launching in July. The full release will arrive in fall 2025 alongside the iPhone 17. Apple has also published a list of supported devices, with older models phased out.
iOS 26 is available in developer beta immediately, with a public beta launching in July. The full release will arrive in fall 2025 alongside the iPhone 17. Apple has also published a list of supported devices, with older models phased out.
iOS 26 marks Apple’s boldest visual overhaul since iOS 7, merging futuristic design with practical intelligence for a new era of mobile computing.