While Apple’s iOS 26 pushes out a lot of new design changes, AI features, and interface upgrades, not everything that was promised is available immediately. A handful of features have been held back and will roll out later via over-the-air updates. Here are three examples:
🔧 Delayed Features in iOS 26
-
Simplified DualSense Controller Pairing
Apple and Sony had planned to enable easier pairing of the PlayStation DualSense and DualSense Edge controllers with iPhones via USB-C. The idea was to allow automatic recognition and smoother switching between devices. However, this update is coming later—firmware from Sony is required, and availability depends on both controller and iPhone software updates. -
Upgraded Siri with On-Screen Awareness
Apple demonstrated early previews of a smarter Siri—one that can react to what’s on your screen, contextually understand elements, and assist more proactively. That version of Siri won’t arrive with the initial iOS 26 release. It’s been pushed out, with hints that it will come in a future update once Apple has refined performance and reliability. -
Some Apple Intelligence Features Across Regions
Certain AI-powered tools tied to Apple Intelligence—such as live translation in phone / FaceTime calls, or image editing tools—are not fully accessible in all countries or languages immediately. Users in regions outside the early rollout group will need to wait until Apple clears additional legal, localization, or technical issues.
⚙️ Why the Delay?
-
Technical readiness: Some features—especially those involving AI, real-time translation, and screen/context awareness—require more testing to avoid bugs or incorrect behavior.
-
Firmware and hardware dependency: For DualSense pairing, for instance, Sony needs to issue controller firmware updates, and Apple must ensure the OS supports it.
-
Localization and regulation: Features that involve voice, translation, or AI often require extra work to support different languages, comply with regional laws, and ensure users’ privacy. These are common reasons for delayed rollout in certain areas.
🔍 What You Should Do
-
If you rely on a delayed feature, keep your iPhone up to date. Apple will deliver these later via smaller OTA updates (e.g. iOS 26.1 or beyond).
-
Check the settings after updates—sometimes features are hidden behind toggles or require enabling in specific menus.
-
If you’re in a region where the feature is delayed, you can watch Apple’s support pages or announcements to get expected timelines.
-
Be patient—promising features later sometimes means Apple is being cautious so that when they arrive, they work well.
