iOS 26 launches with smart AI

Apple released iOS 26 today, and it’s one of the biggest iPhone updates yet. This version brings smarter Apple Intelligence and upgrades to the apps you use every day.

Once you install the update, the first thing you’ll notice is Apple’s new Liquid Glass look. It gives your iPhone a fresh feel with see-through buttons, sliders, tabs, and other controls that make the whole interface look lighter and more modern.

The update also makes the iPhone more expressive, with dynamic Lock Screen wallpapers and Live Translation that works instantly in calls and messages. With Apple Intelligence built right in, your iPhone can now handle tasks faster while keeping your privacy safe.

On top of that, iOS 26 adds practical tools like Call Screening, Hold Assist, and message filters to keep distractions under control. Even CarPlay, Wallet, and Apple Music get meaningful changes that make the iPhone feel more helpful throughout your day. Let’s dive into the new features.

Credit: Apple

Apple Intelligence gets smarter

Apple built iOS 26 around Apple Intelligence, a systemwide set of AI tools designed with privacy at its core.

• Live Translation works in Phone, Messages, and FaceTime to translate text and audio instantly, all on the device.
• Visual Intelligence recognizes what’s on your screen. You can ask ChatGPT or search apps like Google or Etsy for related info.
• Genmoji and Image Playground let you mix emojis and descriptions to create something new.
• Shortcuts gain intelligent actions, including Writing Tools and Image Playground.
• Order Tracking pulls updates from merchant emails into one place, even if you didn’t use Apple Pay.

Apple also opened a Foundation Models framework so developers can tap into the on-device model for fast, private AI features.

Credit: Apple

Updates to Phone and Messages

The Phone app now unifies Favorites, Recents, and Voicemail. Features include:

• Call Screening, which gathers details from unknown callers before you decide to answer.
• Hold Assist, which alerts you when a live agent picks up.

In Messages, you’ll find:

• A folder for unknown senders that keeps unwanted texts silent.
• New conversation tools like polls and custom backgrounds.
• Apple Intelligence suggestions for polls when group chats get busy.
• Enhanced group chats with typing indicators and Apple Cash support.

Credit: Apple

CarPlay, Music, and Wallet updates

CarPlay gets a redesigned compact call view, Tapbacks, and pinned conversations. Widgets and Live Activities help you stay updated without losing focus on the road.

In Apple Music, you’ll see:

• Lyrics Translation for songs in any language.
• Lyrics Pronunciation so you can sing along with confidence.
• AutoMix, which transitions between tracks like a DJ.

Apple Wallet adds installment options for in-store purchases and refreshed boarding passes with real-time flight updates.

Credit: Apple

Apple Games and more features

The new Apple Games app creates a single hub for all your titles. You can jump into your favorites, discover new ones, and track major updates. It’s also the best place to access Apple Arcade.

Other highlights include:

• AirPods updates with studio-quality recording and camera remote controls.
• Easier management of Child Accounts with stronger parental controls.
• Safari privacy with advanced fingerprinting protection enabled by default.
• New accessibility tools like Accessibility Reader and Braille Access.

Credit: Apple

iOS 26 compatible devices

iOS 26 works on a wide range of iPhones, from the iPhone 11 series through the latest iPhone 17 lineup. Here’s the full list:

• iPhone 17
• iPhone 17 Pro
• iPhone 17 Pro Max
• iPhone Air
• iPhone 16e
• iPhone 16
• iPhone 16 Plus
• iPhone 16 Pro
• iPhone 16 Pro Max
• iPhone 15
• iPhone 15 Plus
• iPhone 15 Pro
• iPhone 15 Pro Max
• iPhone 14
• iPhone 14 Plus
• iPhone 14 Pro
• iPhone 14 Pro Max
• iPhone 13
• iPhone 13 mini
• iPhone 13 Pro
• iPhone 13 Pro Max
• iPhone 12
• iPhone 12 mini
• iPhone 12 Pro
• iPhone 12 Pro Max
• iPhone 11
• iPhone 11 Pro
• iPhone 11 Pro Max
• iPhone SE (2nd generation and later)

How to update your iPhone to iOS 26

Updating to iOS 26 takes just a few minutes, and it ensures you get the latest features and security fixes. Make sure your iPhone is charged and connected to Wi-Fi before you start.

Follow these steps:

• Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
• Tap General.
• Select Software Update.
• If iOS 26 is available, tap Upgrade to iOS 26.
• Click Update Now.
• Enter your passcode if asked, then agree to the terms.
• Wait for the download and installation to finish. Your iPhone will restart with iOS 26.

Pro tip: If you don’t see iOS 26 right away, try again later. Apple sometimes rolls out updates in phases across regions.

Related Links:

• Even with Trump’s tariff blessing, Apple hikes iPhone 17 prices
• 6 cool iPhone hacks to get the most out of life
• Is that iPhone App spying? Apple’s Privacy Report reveals all

Kurt’s key takeaways

Apple positioned iOS 26 as its most expressive and intelligent update yet. The combination of enhanced Apple Intelligence and everyday app upgrades shows Apple’s focus on personalization and privacy. With so many improvements, this update may change how you use your iPhone every day.

Which iOS 26 feature do you think will change your daily iPhone experience the most?

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