Tarun Nagar 
Apple officially revealed iOS 26, the next big software update for iPhones, which is packed with a ton of new features. Until recently, it was thought to be called iOS 19. There are several little enhancements and features that might impact the way you use your iPhone on a daily basis, but the most significant change is a new look.
Here are some further details on what iOS 26 will include when it becomes available to all users this autumn. Apple has already started a developer beta and will make a public beta available in July if you would like to test it out before the general public does.
iOS 26’s Apple Intelligence Updates
Source: https://www.apple.com/newsroom/
Apple Intelligence, a potent AI engine that powers Siri, makes smart writing tools possible, customizes the user experience, and offers sophisticated on-device processing for speed, privacy, and intelligent app interactions, is introduced in iOS 26. So, let’s cover everything need to know about iOS 26:
i. Live Translation:
Live Translation, which is integrated into Messages, FaceTime, and Phone, facilitates multilingual communication by translating audio and text.
ii. ChatGPT Enhancements:
Users will be able to ask ChatGPT questions about what they’re looking at onscreen to get more information, even though Siri with onscreen awareness isn’t yet complete. In order to locate comparable photographs and items, it can also search on Google, Etsy, or other compatible applications.
iii. Visual Intelligence:
This function detects when a user is examining an event and recommends that they add it to their calendar with all of its information. comparable to Android’s Circle to Search, Visual Intelligence allows you to take a snapshot of a lamp or jacket and use Google to locate comparable images or the product’s location.
iv. Updates to Genmoji and Image Playground:
According to Apple, iOS 26 enhances this original Apple Intelligence feature in iOS 26 capabilities by allowing users to combine emoji, Genmoji, and descriptions to create new content. For instance, you may pair a Genmoji with an explanation or a regular emoji.
v. Improvements to shortcuts:
Apple is introducing new shortcuts that are made possible by Apple Intelligence. According to Apple, features like Image Playground and Writing Tools will have their own actions.
vi. Order Tracking Information:
Apple Intelligence can automatically recognize and compile order tracking information from emails supplied by delivery companies and merchants.
vii. Foundation Models Framework:
By utilizing free AI inference, Apple is providing iOS developers with direct access to intelligence capabilities that may be accessed offline.
Apple Intelligence iOS 26 Supported Devices
With the release of Apple Intelligence in iOS 26, Apple takes a significant step toward incorporating powerful Apple artificial intelligence directly into its ecosystem. From improved Siri conversations to AI-powered writing capabilities, the update promises to make the iPhone experience with iOS 26.
1. Supported iPhones
- iPhone 15 Pro
- iPhone 15 Pro Max
This list of iPhone models compatible with iOS 26 is capable of running Apple Intelligence features efficiently.
2. Supported iPads
- iPad Pro (M1 and later)
- iPad Air (M1 and later)
Apple Intelligence will be available only on iPads that feature Apple Silicon chips starting from the M1 series.
3. Supported Macs
- MacBook Air (M1 and later)
- MacBook Pro (M1 and later)
- Mac mini, Mac Studio, iMac with M1 or M2 chips
All Macs with Apple Silicon will support Apple Intelligence, thanks to their unified memory architecture and Neural Engine support.
All the Miscellaneous iOS 26 Features
A revamped Control Center, Genmoji, scheduled iMessages, intelligent Mail responses, Game Mode, enhanced screen sharing, and a separate Passwords app for increased security and convenience are just a few of the several other improvements that iOS 26 with new features.
1. Customizable Alarm Snooze Times
Finally breaking free from the rigid nine-minute snooze, iOS 26 will introduce the ability to customize the snooze duration for your alarms. You’ll be able to set your preferred snooze time, offering greater flexibility for those mornings when you need just a few extra minutes of rest.
2. Camera Lens Cleaning Reminder
To help you capture the best possible photos, the Camera app in iOS 26 will now intelligently detect if your lens is smudged or dirty. This innovative feature enhances photo quality, reflecting Apple’s focus on user experience, a crucial consideration for any iOS app development project aiming to leverage intelligent device capabilities for real-world improvements.
3. Partial Text Selection in Messages
Copying specific parts of a text message will become much easier. Instead of being forced to copy the entire message bubble, iOS 26 will allow you to select and copy just a portion of the text, streamlining communication and information sharing within your conversations.
4. ‘Late Night Mode’ for Audio
A new “Late Night Mode” will be available in the Sound settings. This feature is designed to automatically adjust the dynamic range of your iPhone’s audio output, preventing sudden loud sounds in movies or music from disturbing others while still keeping dialogue clear at lower volumes.
5. Liquid Glass
Inspired by the aesthetics of visionOS, iOS 26 glass design language introduces a more fluid and translucent user interface. Liquid Glass design and iOS 26 utilize layered, glass-like panes and subtle animations to create a sense of depth and context.
6. Export Notes to Markdown
For users who prefer plain text formatting and cross-platform compatibility, the Notes app will now allow you to export your notes as Markdown files. This is a valuable feature for writers, developers, and anyone who utilizes Markdown for their personal or professional workflows.
7. Apple Music Playlist Folders
Managing your music library in Apple Music will become more organized. The update will introduce the ability to create folders for your playlists. This will allow you to group related playlists together, such as by genre, mood, or occasion, for easier navigation and a tidier library.
8. Satellite Weather Updates
For adventurers and those in areas with poor cellular reception, the Weather app will gain the ability to fetch basic weather information via a satellite connection. This ensures you can still get crucial weather updates even when you’re off the grid, enhancing safety and planning.
9. Advanced Dictation with Spelling Correction
The Dictation feature will become more robust with real-time spelling correction in iOS 26. You can now spell out names or specific words while dictating, and the system accurately transcribes them, reducing errors and editing time,showcasing advances in AI development that enhance user productivity and accuracy.
10. Manage AutoFill Credit Cards in Wallet
Your saved credit card information for Safari AutoFill will now be managed directly within the Wallet app. It is the coolest new feature coming in iPhone iOS 26. It provides a more secure and convenient way to add, update, and manage your payment methods for online shopping across your Apple devices.
iOS 26: Wrap Up!
Apple’s future iOS 26, which will be introduced at WWDC 2025, is a huge leap forward for the iPhone operating system. The most noticeable update is the addition of a new “Liquid Glass” design, inspired by visionOS, that adds a more fluid and transparent appearance to the interface.
Key improvements include a redesigned Phone app with intelligent call filtering and significant modifications to Messages, including new layouts and the ability to organize polls directly within group conversations.
This fall, iOS 26 – the big feature updates is expected to be officially released, most likely at the same time as the iPhone 17. The iOS 26 release date is expected to be announced soon, likely in conjunction with the release of the iPhone 17. Both are anticipated to be released soon.
