Apple recently made big announcements at WWDC 2025 about its latest operating system, iOS 26.
But this isn’t just any regular update—it’s set to completely transform your iPhone experience with major upgrades in design and AI features.
The most eye-catching change is the new “Liquid Glass” UI, which gives icons, widgets, and controls a glossy, transparent look. These elements now move more fluidly and with added depth, inspired by Apple’s visionOS.
Along with this, the AI-powered Apple Intelligence has been introduced, bringing tools like Image Playground, Genmoji, Real-Time Translation, Visual Intelligence, and smarter Shortcuts to iOS 26.
Release Timeline and Beta Access
June 9, 2025 – iOS 26 Developer Beta 1 was released during WWDC.
July 7, 2025 – Developer Beta 3 is set to roll out.
July 14, 2025 – Public Beta will be available.
Final Release – Expected around mid-September 2025, likely after the iPhone 17 launch, following Apple’s usual rollout pattern.
Liquid Glass Design: A Stunning New Look
The biggest visual change in iOS 26 is the new “Liquid Glass” design. This gives your screen icons, widgets, and controls a transparent, glass-like appearance with fluid motion and depth—inspired by Apple’s visionOS. It creates a dynamic, modern feel throughout the iPhone.
Features of iOS 26
Liquid Glass UI: A fresh glassy, neumorphic design for a modern, dynamic look.
Apple Intelligence (AI layer) includes:
Image Playground: Create AI-generated images.
Genmoji: Make custom emojis.
Real-Time Translation: Translate calls instantly (may be delayed in some regions).
Visual Intelligence: Detect and understand images/text on-screen and give helpful suggestions.
AI Power Management: Smarter battery and performance control.
Hidden and Upcoming Features (Not Officially Announced)
Live Translation support via AirPods.
Public Wi‑Fi Secure Login Sync for safer, easier connections.
Other Notable Updates
Upgrades to Camera, Messages, Music, Wallet, and Maps apps.
Introduction of a new Apple Games app.
Better screen personalization through App Center.
Improved call management and support for Live Activities.
Device Compatibility
iOS 26 will be available for iPhones with the A13 Bionic chip or newer, which includes:
iPhone 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, and 16 series
iPhone SE (2020 and 2022)
However, models with the older A12 chip (iPhone XS, XS Max, XR) will not receive this update.
To use Apple Intelligence features, you’ll need a device with the A17 Pro chip or higher.
