iOS 26 Podcasts App Update Introduces Liquid Glass Design and Enhanced Controls

Apple has released a significant update to its Podcasts app with iOS 26. The refresh includes a new visual design and smarter playback features. These changes aim to improve the overall user experience for listeners.

The update aligns the app with Apple’s new system-wide Liquid Glass aesthetic. It also adds more granular controls for audio playback.

New Liquid Glass Interface Transforms the App’s Look

The most noticeable change is the new Liquid Glass design. This gives the app a modern, translucent appearance. UI elements now have a frosted glass effect.

Background artwork subtly shines through these elements. This creates a more immersive visual experience. Navigation bars and buttons feature softer, more rounded edges.

According to reports, the Browse tab has been renamed to “New.” The search function has also been relocated. Its bar now sits at the bottom of the screen for easier access.

Precise Playback Speed and Enhanced Dialogue Features Added

iOS 26 introduces much more control over listening speed. Users are no longer limited to a few preset options. A new dial allows for adjustments in precise 0.1x increments.

Speeds can now range from a very slow 0.5x to a rapid 3x. This offers greater flexibility for all listening preferences. The update also includes a powerful new audio tool.

A feature called “Enhance Dialogue” uses computational audio. It isolates vocal frequencies from background noise and music. This makes spoken words clearer and easier to understand in complex audio environments.

Settings Are Now Remembered on a Per-Show Basis

The app now remembers individual preferences for each podcast show. Your chosen playback speed for one show will not affect others. The same is true for the Enhance Dialogue setting.

This personalized approach saves time for the user. Listeners will not need to readjust their settings for every new episode. It creates a more seamless and customized listening journey.

These iOS 26 updates make the Podcasts app more visually appealing and functionally powerful for millions of users.

Info at your fingertips

How do I turn on Enhance Dialogue in the Podcasts app?

Play a podcast and open the fullscreen player. Tap the “1x” playback speed button. Then, select the “Enhance Dialogue” option from the menu that appears.

Can I set a custom playback speed?

Yes. Tap a preset speed option or drag your finger over it. A dial will appear, allowing you to set a custom speed in 0.1x increments between 0.5x and 3.0x.

Will my speed settings apply to all podcasts?

No. The iOS 26 app remembers your speed and Enhance Dialogue settings individually for each show. Changing them for one podcast will not affect your others.

What is Liquid Glass design?

Liquid Glass is Apple’s new design language in iOS 26. It gives user interface elements a translucent, glass-like appearance that allows background content to show through subtly.

Has the search function changed?

The search tab’s bar is now located at the very bottom of the screen. This makes it easier to reach with one hand on larger iPhone models.