Apple has finally launched iOS 26, and it is now available for free download across eligible iPhones. The latest update introduces a major design overhaul and several new features aimed at improving usability and performance. The standout addition is Apple’s new “Liquid Glass” design language, bringing a translucent aesthetic across the lock screen, home screen, and apps. Users can also expect functional updates across Phone, Messages, Photos, and more.
Why Apple jumped from iOS 18 to iOS 26
One of the most surprising moves this year was Apple skipping from iOS 18 straight to iOS 26. The reason, according to Apple, is alignment with a year-based naming convention, much like car models. All Apple platforms, including macOS, iPadOS, and watchOS, have received the same numbering scheme. For those unable to upgrade, Apple also released iOS 18.7, mainly addressing critical security vulnerabilities for older devices.
Key Features of iOS 26
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Liquid Glass Design | Translucent apps, widgets, and screens with adaptive light/dark modes |
| Hold Assist | Notifies users when a representative answers during a call hold |
| Spam Filter in Messages | Filters unknown senders and spam texts into a separate folder |
| Group Polls in Messages | Create interactive polls directly in group chats |
| Live Translation | Real-time translations in Phone, FaceTime, and Messages |
| Visual Intelligence | Search for items on-screen, like outfits or objects, via screenshot search |
| Camera Enhancements | Simplified controls, lens cleanliness notifications |
| FaceTime Safety | Pauses calls if nudity is detected, aimed at child protection |
| Customizable Lock Screen | New clock styles, 3D wallpapers, widgets, and focus options |
| Screenshot Tools | Highlight-to-search, Google and ChatGPT integration |
| iPadOS Windowing | Resize and move multiple app windows for multitasking |
| AirPods Updates | Live translation, heart rate tracking, remote camera control, and clear audio |
The new Liquid Glass design explained
Liquid Glass is the highlight of iOS 26, transforming the iPhone interface with a sleek translucent style. Apps, widgets, and buttons adopt a floating, glass-like appearance while adjusting automatically between light and dark modes. Some users have praised the futuristic look, while others compare it to Microsoft’s Aero design. Apple has also made adjustments during beta testing, allowing users to reduce the transparency if they find it too distracting.
How to adjust Liquid Glass settings
Not everyone will embrace Apple’s bold new design direction, but there are options to tweak it. By heading into Settings > Accessibility, users can reduce motion and toggle transparency adjustments. Menus can also be switched from translucent to opaque, offering a more traditional iOS feel. Home screens can be customized with Default, Dark, or Tinted themes. While you can’t fully disable Liquid Glass, Apple ensures some flexibility for user preferences.
Useful updates to Phone and Messages apps
Apple has revamped core apps like Phone and Messages to improve daily interactions. The Phone app now combines contacts, recent calls, and voicemail in one streamlined view. A feature called Hold Assist notifies you when a representative picks up, saving you from long waits. In Messages, you can filter spam texts, create group polls, and use live translation, which allows real-time conversations across different languages, powered by Apple Intelligence.
Another standout feature of iOS 26 is Visual Intelligence. This tool lets users search items directly from their screen, similar to a reverse image search. For example, you can screenshot an outfit and instantly find shopping options online. In Photos, Apple has brought back the familiar Library and Collections tabs, responding to user feedback. This makes navigation easier and ensures users spend less time scrolling endlessly through large image libraries.
Camera, FaceTime, and screenshots get smarter
iOS 26 brings a reworked Camera app, placing key controls in more accessible locations. Users are notified if their lens is dirty, ensuring clearer shots. FaceTime now includes a new Communication Safety feature, which detects nudity and pauses inappropriate communication, enhancing child safety. Screenshots also gain powerful tools, including highlight-to-search, Google integration, and ChatGPT support, allowing instant answers about captured images. These small but thoughtful upgrades make everyday tasks far more efficient.
What’s new for iPadOS and AirPods
iPadOS 26 also benefits from Liquid Glass and introduces multitasking with resizable app windows, creating a desktop-like experience. A new menu bar with File and Edit options adds further productivity. AirPods, meanwhile, gain live translation, heart rate monitoring (on AirPods Pro 3), enhanced audio recording, and the ability to control the iPhone camera remotely. Together, these updates strengthen Apple’s ecosystem, ensuring seamless functionality across iPhones, iPads, and accessories.
Which iPhones support iOS 26
Not all iPhones can run iOS 26. The update is available for models released from 2019 onwards, starting with iPhone SE (second generation). That includes iPhone 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, and the newly launched iPhone 17 series, as well as the ultra-thin iPhone Air. Unfortunately, older devices like the iPhone XR, XS, and XS Max are not supported. iOS 26 officially rolled out globally on September 15, 2025.