CUPERTINO, CA – June 9, 2025 — Apple revealed iOS 26 at WWDC 2025, delivering its most significant iPhone overhaul in over a decade. This update embraces a sleek new design, robust AI enhancements, and a suite of practical features that redefine usability on compatible devices.
✨ Liquid Glass: A Unified Visual Refresh
iOS 26 debuts Liquid Glass, a translucent, refraction-based design language spanning iPhone, iPad, Mac and beyond. Borrowing from visionOS, it introduces frosted menus, dynamic icons, and adaptive lock screens that fluidly integrate with wallpapers in 3D-like fashion .
🤖 Apple Intelligence & AI-Powered Features
“Apple Intelligence” brings on-device AI deeper into everyday use:
Live Translation – Real-time voice/text translation in Messages, FaceTime, and regular calls . Visual Intelligence – Identify screen objects and initiate context-aware actions like shopping or scheduling . Shortcuts with AI – Automate tasks using generative AI for image creation, summarization, or ChatGPT-powered extensions . Genmoji & Image Playground – Customize emojis and visuals with ChatGPT styles like watercolor or anime modes .
📱 Smarter Communication & Phone Features
Call Screening and Hold Assist help handle spammers and on-hold calls automatically . Enhanced Messages – Add background images, create group polls, view typing indicators, and send money via Apple Cash .
🎵 Apple Music & Wallet Upgrades
AutoMix – A viral AI DJ feature that dynamically blends tracks like a professional DJ . Home Screen Wallet tools – More insightful boarding passes, live flight info, and the ability to add U.S. passports securely . Verify with Wallet – New feature to confirm identity online without uploading documents .
🗺️ Better Maps, CarPlay & Device Health
On‑device commute intelligence – Maps predicts daily routes and alerts you to delays . CarPlay upgrades – Includes compact UI, in-car Messages support, and tap‑back reactions . Battery & UI tweaks – Adaptive power to extend battery life and refined lock screen time display .
📲 Who’s Eligible?
iOS 26 drops support for models pre‑iPhone 11. Some advanced AI features and Genmoji/Image Playground are limited to iPhone 15 Pro and newer .
🔚 Final Word: Why iOS 26 Matters
iOS 26 is more than a visual facelift—it signals Apple’s full embrace of AI and design innovation. From dynamic interfaces to intelligent helpers, this release transforms the iPhone into a more personal, powerful tool. Set to roll out publicly in September 2025, it’s shaping up to be a game‑changer.