iOS 26: Apple Unveils Major Updates to Messages, Phone, and Core Apps
Cupertino, CA – Apple has released iOS 26, bringing a sweeping array of new features and redesigned interfaces to iPhones.The update introduces notable enhancements to core applications like Messages, Phone, and Safari, alongside advancements in accessibility, intelligence, and hardware integration with AirPods and Apple Watch.
Key Changes at a Glance:
Messages: The Messages app receives ample updates, including improved search filters, the ability to schedule messages, and enhanced editing capabilities. Users can now react with a wider range of expressions, and new Tapback effects are available. Polls can also be added directly to chats.
Phone: The Phone app introduces a comprehensive Call Screening feature designed to filter calls from unknown numbers. A new “Wait for Me” tool allows the system to handle hold times,notifying users when a representative is available.
AirPods: with a corresponding firmware update, AirPods Pro 2, AirPods pro 3, and AirPods 4 gain Live Translation functionality for real-time in-person conversations. Additional features include automatic audio pausing when the user falls asleep and the ability to use AirPods as a remote shutter for the iPhone’s Camera app.
Safari: Safari boasts a redesigned layout featuring a Liquid Glass design and changes to the tab bar. New privacy features have also been implemented.
Apple Maps: The Maps app now learns a user’s preferred commute route and proactively alerts them to potential delays. Users can also save their location history for easy access to frequently visited places while traveling.
Notes & Reminders: The Reminders app incorporates hidden Apple Intelligence features, while the Notes app supports 3D graphics rendered with three-variable equations.
Camera: The Camera app features a revamped user interface, with updates to the mode-switching menu and settings access.
FaceTime: FaceTime receives an updated card-style interface, call screening options, a feature to block nudity, and support for Live Translation captions.
Apple Music: Apple Music introduces AutoMix, a feature that provides DJ-style transitions between songs, alongside Lyric Translation and Pronunciation tools.
Photos: the unified Photos app structure from iOS 18 has been reverted,restoring separate tabs for Collections and the Photos Library. the update also adds support for Spatial Scenes, which provide a 3D effect to 2D photos.
Podcasts: The Podcasts app features a Liquid Glass design, new speed controls, and improved dialog enhancements.
Wallet: The Wallet app receives major updates, including support for digital passports and significant improvements to boarding pass functionality.
For a comprehensive overview of all new features and details, refer to the complete iOS 26 roundup: https://www.macrumors.com/roundup/ios-26/
