Apple has released the first developer beta of iOS 26, signaling a significant update for iPhone users. Featuring a refreshed “Liquid Glass” design and an array of advanced AI-powered features, iOS 26 promises to be one of the most substantial upgrades in recent years.
Apple has introduced a sleek new “Liquid Glass” design across the system, bringing a frosted, translucent look inspired by visionOS. It gives the UI a modern, polished feel. and yes, it looks stunning.
What is Liquid Glass
This update places significant emphasis on enhancing on-device AI capabilities. Users can benefit from real-time translation in calls and messages, a more context-aware Siri that understands screen content, and creative tools for generating custom emojis and images. Additionally, iOS 26 offers improvements in reminders, battery management, and automatic tracking of online orders.
Several core apps have received notable enhancements. Messages now includes features such as group polls, typing indicators, customizable backgrounds, and integrated Apple Cash payments. The Camera app has been simplified to facilitate mode switching, while the Photos app restores familiar navigation and introduces a new 3D photo effect for a more immersive experience. Safari has been updated with a sleeker interface and enhanced privacy protections, and Apple has introduced a new Games app to centralize gaming activity.
In terms of communication and safety, spam call management is improved with Call Screening, which acts as a virtual assistant to handle unknown callers. FaceTime gains a new feature that freezes the call if nudity is detected, aimed primarily at protecting younger users. Parental controls have been strengthened, giving guardians greater oversight over their children’s contacts and content.
iOS 26 will be available on iPhone 11 and later models, excluding the iPhone XR, XS, and XS Max. Some of the most advanced AI features will require the newer iPhone 15 Pro or later. While the developer beta is currently available, the public beta is expected to be released in July, with the full stable version scheduled for launch in September alongside the new iPhone models.
All in all, iOS 26 is a well-designed and meaningful update that combines style with smart functionality.
Users who want to try out the newest features early should take advantage of the upcoming public beta, while others can await the finalized update later this year.
