iOS 26 brings a host of enhancements, capabilities, and deeper intelligence integrations to the iPhone experience. The update is available for a wide range of devices, from iPhone 11 models through the latest iPhone 17 series and variants.

Before you update, make sure to back up your iPhone and check that you have sufficient free space for the installation. After the update, give your device a little time to settle — apps may need to refresh, and the system might take a short while to get everything running smoothly.

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Liquid Glass

The Liquid Glass aesthetic introduces dynamic, translucent effects throughout the system, creating a more immersive and tactile feel. Buttons, widgets, and notifications now appear as if suspended under smooth glass — subtly shifting with motion and lighting. This visual overhaul gives iOS 26 a fluid and futuristic look while maintaining Apple’s clean design philosophy.

Apple Intelligence

One of the headline additions in iOS 26 is Apple Intelligence — a system-wide intelligence layer that powers new capabilities across apps. With Apple Intelligence, you can:

  • Translate live in Messages or calls with Live Translation, which also displays real-time transcripts for easier understanding

  • Generate original images through Image Playground, or craft text with new Writing Tools

  • Get context-aware assistance from Siri, which can summarise notifications, manage tasks, and reduce interruptions

Apple Intelligence marks Apple’s most significant step yet into generative AI, blending privacy with powerful on-device intelligence.

Lock Screen, Home, and personalisation

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iOS 26 enables more robust customisation of both your Lock Screen and Home Screen. You can create a custom Lock Screen layout with widgets, styles, and multiple versions you switch between. Home Screen upgrades include widget management, app hiding or locking, and better organisation of apps and folders. The Action button (on supported iPhones) is now more configurable, letting you map it to shortcuts or functions you use most often.

Daily productivity and core apps

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Across built-in apps, iOS 26 delivers significant upgrades that streamline daily use:

  • Messages: schedule or edit messages, unsend them, and even add polls for quick decisions.

  • Mail: now features Undo Send, improved attachment handling, and better privacy controls.

  • Safari: offers multiple browser profiles, shared Tab Groups, and new privacy enhancements like Hide My Email and more robust private browsing.

  • Camera and Photos: benefit from improved low-light image processing, enhanced focus and depth control, and the AI Clean Up tool that automatically removes unwanted objects from photos.

  • Notes, Freeform, Health, and Maps: gain smarter scanning, richer collaboration tools, and tighter integration with Apple Intelligence.

Communication and connectivity

The iOS 26 update also enhances communication and in-car experiences. FaceTime now supports personalised contact posters and richer backgrounds, while CarPlay gains a more consistent, adaptive interface across vehicles — making driving with iPhone integration smoother and safer.

Privacy, security and safety features

Privacy and security remain a top priority in iOS 26. Enhanced privacy tools and advanced security features give users more control than ever:

  • Advanced Data Protection, Lockdown Mode, and Stolen Device Protection: safeguard sensitive information

  • New controls manage app tracking, location sharing, and data access

  • Emergency SOS via satellite, Crash Detection, and Check In: have been refined for faster, more reliable responses in critical moments.

These additions reinforce Apple’s long-standing commitment to protecting user data without compromising functionality.

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Generative Emoji (Genmoji)

A fun and expressive addition, Genmoji lets users create custom emojis from text prompts. Whether it’s a self-portrait-style emoji or a playful idea turned visual, Genmoji makes messaging more engaging and personalised.

Final thoughts

iOS 26 represents a meaningful evolution of Apple’s mobile operating system — combining intelligence, customisation, and security in one cohesive experience. With its Liquid Glass design, Apple Intelligence, and a wealth of privacy and productivity enhancements, it’s designed for users seeking a more personal, secure, and efficient device.

While existing iPhone users will find many welcome updates, Apple Intelligence may well be the feature that defines this release.