Apple Unveils iOS 26 Featuring New Design and Enhanced Functions
Apple announced the forthcoming iOS 26 update for iPhone on June 9, 2025, showcasing a redesigned Liquid Glass aesthetic along with an array of new functionalities. Among these enhancements are live translation capabilities, AI-driven visual search, a newly introduced Games app, and improved security features. Following the announcement, Apple quickly initiated a beta testing program for developers and early users. Since then, additional improvements have surfaced in the iOS 26 beta version that were not highlighted during the initial announcement. With a full launch anticipated in September, synchronized with the release of the iPhone 17, here are the standout features that Apple has incorporated during the beta testing phase, which will soon be available to iPhone users.
### New Features in CarPlay
CarPlay, which integrates the familiar iOS interface into vehicle infotainment systems, will now feature wallpapers that complement the redesigned iPhone backgrounds. This enhancement aims to provide a cohesive visual experience across devices.
### Enhanced Control Center
As part of the Liquid Glass enhancements in iOS 26, various elements within the Control Center have been refined for better readability. Apple continues to pursue a harmonious blend of aesthetics and functionality to improve user experience.
### Introduction of Drafts in Messages
Previously, unfinished text messages were difficult to retrieve in the Messages app. The new iOS 26 update addresses this issue by introducing a dedicated Drafts folder, making it significantly easier for users to locate their incomplete messages.
### Dynamic Wallpaper Features
Continuing the trend set by iOS 18, the latest update includes a dynamic wallpaper option that enables the background of your iPhone to gradually change colors throughout the day, enhancing visual appeal.
### Ongoing Liquid Glass Adjustments
iOS 26 presents a distinctive look compared to its predecessor, iOS 18, with continuous adjustments made during the beta phase, including increased transparency on the lock screen, contributing to a modernized interface.
### Live Radio Widget for Apple Music
The iOS 26 update also introduces a Live Radio widget for the Apple Music app, allowing users to easily add this feature to their home screen for quick access to live broadcasts.
### Revamped Low Battery Alert
To improve user awareness, iOS 26 features an updated low battery alert displayed on the Dynamic Island at the top of the screen, ensuring users are promptly notified when power levels are low.
### Expanded Wallpaper Options
In addition to the dynamic wallpaper feature, the beta version has introduced various color variations for the new default wallpaper, allowing users to personalize their devices further.
### New Ringtones Available
Users can now enjoy a selection of new ringtones for incoming calls, including different variations of the existing Reflection ringtone and a brand new option named Little Bird, adding more choices for customization.
### Notification Summaries Return
After being temporarily removed in January for refinement, notification summaries for news and entertainment apps are now making a comeback in iOS 26, enhancing user engagement with these applications.
### Performance Enhancements
The performance of iOS 26 has been consistently improved throughout the beta phase, ensuring that users will experience a smooth and responsive interface upon installation, without any noticeable slowdown.
### Personalized Weather Forecasting
The Weather app now offers a personalized experience by allowing users to grant access to their frequently visited locations stored on the device, resulting in more tailored weather forecasts.
### Apple Watch Blood Oxygen Monitoring Returns
Apple is reintroducing the blood oxygen monitoring feature to the Apple Watch, with the functionality now primarily relying on the iPhone. This feature will be accessible to users in the U.S. with Series 9, Series 10, or Ultra 2 models.
### Simplified iPhone Restoration Process
The process of restoring an iPhone has been streamlined by Apple, enabling users to complete the task without needing a Windows or macOS computer, thus enhancing troubleshooting efficiency.
### Call Screening Feature
With iOS 26, incoming calls from unknown numbers can now be silenced by default or allowed to ring normally. Alternatively, the caller may be prompted for additional information before the call is connected, as part of the new Call Screening feature in the Phone app.
As Apple continues to roll out bug fixes and enhancements in the lead-up to the official launch, iOS 26 is nearing readiness for widespread availability. An announcement regarding the full release is expected to coincide with the iPhone 17 launch, anticipated in early September.
Follow me to stay updated on the latest technology and computer news from around the world. Join me in spreading the love for tech!