Apple Signals Major OS Shift with “iOS 26” Launch This Fall

“Liquid Glass” Design Overhaul and Key Feature Updates Revealed

Apple is set to debut its next major iPhone operating system, dubbed iOS 26, later this year, marking a significant departure from traditional version numbering. The upcoming release, along with updates to macOS, iPadOS, and other Apple software, will adopt a year-based naming convention, aligning with the 2025 launch timeframe. This strategic shift coincides with a comprehensive visual refresh known as “Liquid Glass.”

“Liquid Glass” Design Promises Cohesion and Visual Refresh

The centerpiece of the iOS 26 update is the “Liquid Glass” design language, introducing a new translucent aesthetic across Apple’s software ecosystem. This marks one of the most substantial visual changes in years for the iPhone’s home and lock screens. While the design has drawn comparisons to Microsoft’s earlier Windows Vista Aero interface, Apple has reportedly begun incorporating user feedback, refining the transparency levels.

Siri in Holding Pattern Amidst AI Exploration

While iOS 26 introduces numerous quality-of-life improvements, the highly anticipated “smarter” Siri, first previewed in 2024, remains on a delayed schedule, expected “in the coming year.” Rumors suggest Apple is exploring integration with third-party AI models like OpenAI’s ChatGPT and Anthropic’s Claude for a potential future overhaul, positioning 2026 as a pivotal year for its voice assistant.

Key iOS 26 Features Enhance User Experience

iOS 26 brings a suite of practical enhancements, including a redesigned Phone app offering consolidated access to contacts, call history, and voicemails. A new “Hold Assist” feature will alert users when a representative joins a call, saving them from prolonged hold music. The Messages app will gain the ability to filter out unknown senders and introduce polls for easier group decision-making.

Live Translation is expanding to Phone, FaceTime, and Messages, enabling real-time cross-language communication. The Photos app sees the return of separate Library and Collections tabs, addressing user feedback from previous updates. Additionally, a “Visual Intelligence” feature will allow users to search for items directly from their iPhone screen, akin to a reverse image search.

A notable addition is the FaceTime “Communication Safety” feature, which uses on-device detection to pause video if nudity is identified, prioritizing child safety. The lock screen is also receiving an upgrade with more customization options, including advanced clock styles, 3D wallpaper effects, and enhanced widget integration. The public beta is currently available, with developer beta 6 also released.

iPadOS 26 Boosts Multitasking and Visual Cohesion

iPadOS 26 will introduce long-awaited multitasking capabilities, allowing users to run and resize multiple applications simultaneously on their screen. The “Liquid Glass” aesthetic will also extend to the iPad’s interface, including its lock and home screens. A new menu bar will provide streamlined access to functions like File, Edit, and Windows.

AirPods Receive Functional Enhancements

AirPods are slated for updates alongside iOS 26, featuring “studio-quality” audio recording for improved clarity in noisy environments. A new camera remote control function will allow users to capture photos or start/stop video recording using their AirPods, complete with a three-second countdown for photos.

iOS 26 Compatibility and Installation

The iOS 26 update will be compatible with iPhones released in 2019 or later, excluding the iPhone XR, XS, and XS Max. This includes the iPhone SE (second generation) and newer models. Apple’s public beta is accessible through the Apple Beta Software Program. Users can enroll by visiting beta.apple.com.

The final release of iOS 26 is anticipated this fall, typically in September, shortly after Apple’s annual iPhone event. Historically, the update has rolled out around September 16th, following the new iPhone lineup announcement.