iOS 26 New Features: Apple’s Biggest iPhone Update in Years

Apple has rolled out iOS 26. The update is one of the biggest iPhone upgrades in recent years. It brings a new design, smarter features, and better performance. The release went live on September 15, 2025, worldwide.

The new update is available on iPhones from 2019 onwards. That includes iPhone 11 and later models. The new iPhone 17 series will ship with iOS 26 already installed. Apple calls this release the most radical design change in years.

Liquid Glass and Design Changes in iOS 26

The biggest highlight of iOS 26 is Liquid Glass. This new design makes the interface feel alive. The edges of the screen show colorful shifts as you swipe. Apple says it is meant to give a more fluid and modern look.

The lock screen now has Spatial Scenes. These let you create 3D effects from normal photos. Animated album art can also appear on the lock screen. The Camera app has been simplified. It opens with just two options: Photo and Video. A lens smudge alert is another small but useful addition.

The Photos app has been redesigned too. The last redesign upset many users. Apple believes this version will be more user-friendly. The Phone app now has call screening. Unknown callers must state their reason before connecting. Hold Assist is another tool that keeps your place on hold and alerts you when it is your turn.

Messages has a fresh look. Messages now allow background effects. Users can also create quick polls using Apple Intelligence.

Apple Intelligence and Smarter Tools

Apple has expanded its Apple Intelligence system. This is only available on iPhone 15 Pro, Pro Max, and later models. It adds Live Translation to Messages, Phone, and FaceTime. During calls, translations appear on-screen or can be read aloud.

Visual Intelligence is also upgraded. In the past, it only worked with the camera. Now it scans what is on your screen. For example, it can identify a dog breed in a photo or add an event from a flyer. Maps now learns your daily routes and can suggest better travel times.

Reminders and Mail also benefit. Apple Intelligence can suggest tasks based on your emails and notes. This is designed to save time and reduce missed deadlines.

Why iOS 26 Matters

This update changes how the iPhone looks and works. Apple wants users to feel like they are holding a brand-new device. The Liquid Glass design makes daily use more immersive. The smarter tools show Apple’s push to compete with AI-powered features from rivals.

Early reactions show excitement. Users welcome a more modern design. The call screening and Hold Assist features could be major wins for everyday use. Apple also promises smoother performance despite the new look.

iOS 26 is more than an update. It is a statement. Apple wants to show the iPhone can still surprise and lead in design.

Info at your fingertips-

Q1: Which iPhones support iOS 26?

All iPhones from 2019 and later. That includes iPhone 11, SE 2nd and 3rd gen, and the full iPhone 16 series. iPhone 17 ships with iOS 26 pre-installed.

Q2: What is Liquid Glass in iOS 26?

It is a new design feature. The screen edges shift colors when swiped. It creates a smooth, glass-like effect.

Q3: What new tools come with iOS 26?

Call screening, Hold Assist, and AI-based features like Live Translation. Maps, Photos, and Camera apps are also improved.

Q4: Do all iPhones get Apple Intelligence?

No. It is only available on iPhone 15 Pro, Pro Max, and newer models. Older iPhones get the design changes but not the AI tools.

Q5: How big is the iOS 26 update file?

On average, it is around 14GB. Apple warns that download times may vary with network speed.