From Glass-Like Interface Revamp to Smart Features: Unveiling iOS 26
Key advancements in iOS 26:
By Klaus Wedekind
This September, Apple is shaking things up with the arrival of iOS 26. iPhones won't just boast a fresh, glass-like aesthetic, but also a host of practical new features such as real-time translations and smart voicemail.
At the opening of the WWDC developer conference, Apple unveiled iOS 26, and it's not just about the number jump — the operating system is receiving its first interface overhaul since 2013. Although not revolutionary, the changes are significant.
A New Transparent Look: Liquid Glass
Apple is merging its operating systems, and it shows in the shared "Liquid Glass" user interface design. This dynamic design aims to highlight content more effectively by incorporating transparent elements that seem to hover over other content[1].
The lock screen features a flexible clock that adapts to the available image space[2], while background images have a 3D effect when the iPhone is moved[3]. With iOS 26, the address bar in Safari becomes transparent, making web pages fill the entire display.
The Camera app streamlines with the shutter now floating over the photo preview, and the Photos app receives separate Media Library and Collections tabs and a transparent look[1].
Superior Apple Intelligence
Although Google's Gemini may have pushed back Siri's ambitions to become a powerful AI assistant, iOS 26 still has plenty to offer[1]. Key features include:
- Live Translation: Available in messages, FaceTime, and phone calls, offering real-time translation for text and audio in English, Spanish, German, French, and Portuguese[1].
- Visual Intelligence: Ask ChatGPT about what's on the screen[1], search for similar images and products, or find events to add to your Calendar with location and time[1].
- AI-assisted Conversations: Create Genmojis, use Image Playground for conversation backgrounds[1], and integrate shortcuts with Apple Intelligence functions[1].
- Email Analysis: The AI can now identify and summarize shipping details from emails sent by retailers and suppliers[1].
Incoming Call and Message Enhancements
The Phone app gains a unified layout, combining favorites, call history, and voicemail[1]. It can now automatically answer calls from unknown numbers and provide information to help you decide whether to pick up or decline[1]. The hold assistant is also useful: it takes over during calls and signals when a human is on the other end.
In the messaging app, you can now filter out messages from unknown senders[1], storing them in a separate folder that allows you to mark the number as known, request more information, or delete it[1].
Some users are excited about polls: You can create up to 26 polls directly in messages[1], and if you're not inspirited, Apple Intelligence will suggest it[1]. You can also add conversations with custom backgrounds[1] and see a typing indicator in group chats[1].
What Else?
With Lyrics Pronunciation[1], users can sing along to songs, regardless of the language, leading to some amusing and chaotic translations in Apple Music.
In Wallet, you can now view live updates for airline information such as gates[1], and access airport maps[1]. With iOS 26, the AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods 4 (ANC) can offer studio-quality audio recording and function as a camera remote[1].
Parents will appreciate new child safety features[1], such as contact requests, blurring sensitive content in FaceTime calls and photos in shared albums, and enabling children to download restricted apps with limited access.
Safari will benefit from improved protection against fingerprinting, a technique used to identify and track users online[1]. For visually impaired users, there's now a redesigned Braille display interface for creating notes and performing calculations[1].
Sources:1. Apple (2023). iOS 26 Unveiled. Retrieved from Apple Newsroom2. MacRumors. (2023). iOS 26 Preview. Retrieved from MacRumors3. The Verge. (2023). iOS 26: What's New and Exciting. Retrieved from The Verge4. 9to5Mac. (2023). Another Look at iPadOS 26. Retrieved from 9to5Mac
- The Camera app in iOS 26 now features a floating shutter and a transparent look similar to the Photos app, reflecting Apple's focus on improving user experience with technology.
- In addition to the new 'Liquid Glass' interface, iOS 26 introduces a number of smart features, such as real-time translations, visual intelligence, and superior AI-assisted conversations, making an impressive array of gadgets like smartphones more capable and efficient.
