Apple’s iOS 26 introduces the most substantial visual redesign to the iPhone in years, previewing broader shifts expected in upcoming hardware models. Currently available in public beta, the update blends aesthetic updates with usability enhancements, while signaling Apple’s continued integration of AI-powered tools throughout its ecosystem.

The most visible change is the new “Liquid Glass” interface, a translucent design language that creates the illusion of light bending around menus, icons, and folders. Apple says the goal is to unify the look across iPhones, iPads, and Macs. Some early testers criticized the style for reducing readability, prompting Apple to tone down certain effects in response. Despite the change, core navigation remains familiar, and the update does not require users to relearn basic functions.

More than a design refresh, iOS 26 introduces several app-specific improvements. The Phone, FaceTime, and Messages apps now allow customizable backgrounds and a new polling feature to help coordinate group plans. Real-time translation has also been added, enhancing live conversations across languages.

Apple’s AI framework, referred to in the update as Visual Intelligence, plays a greater role in the user experience. Users can now take a screenshot of a concert poster or event flyer, and the system will extract relevant details—such as the date, location, and artist—and offer to save them to the calendar or link to streaming content. The same feature works with screenshots from social media posts, giving users new ways to interact with static images.

Apple also made notable changes to its Camera and Photos apps. The Camera app now simplifies its interface by consolidating controls, while still providing access to common modes like portrait and slow motion through horizontal swipes. The Photos app reintroduces a tab-based layout and now automatically tags certain images, such as those taken at concerts, with contextual information like venue, artist setlists, and links to Apple Music pages.

iOS 26 adds tools for reducing interruptions. Unknown calls can be screened by a virtual assistant that asks the caller to identify themselves and state their reason for calling. A new feature called Hold Assist monitors calls placed on hold and notifies users when someone joins the line, reducing the need to wait with the phone pressed to the ear.

The new Games app centralizes all downloaded games into a single interface, making it easier to browse, launch, or find multiplayer options with friends. Though not a groundbreaking addition, it streamlines a growing area of mobile usage.

Other incremental upgrades span across Wallet, Apple Maps, and Apple Music. Rather than consolidating all AI features into a separate hub, Apple has embedded machine learning into the flow of existing apps, creating a more seamless experience that aligns with how users already interact with their devices.

While it’s unlikely that iOS 26 alone will drive new iPhone sales, its release comes ahead of expected hardware changes later this year. Analysts anticipate Apple will launch the iPhone 17 Air, a thinner model that may influence future foldable designs. The new software may serve as the foundation for that transition.

Apple is expected to officially roll out iOS 26 in the fall. Until then, users can access the public beta, though those concerned about bugs may prefer to wait for the stable release.