Apple Unveils iOS 26: A Major Overhaul with AI Integration and 'Liquid Glass' Design

Reviewed byNidhi Govil

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Apple's latest iOS update brings a significant redesign, new AI-powered features, and improvements to core apps. The update is set to roll out on September 15, 2025, ahead of the iPhone 17 launch.

A New Era for iOS: Introducing 'Liquid Glass' Design

Apple is set to launch iOS 26 on September 15, 2025, marking the most significant redesign of the iPhone operating system since iOS 7 in 2013

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. The centerpiece of this update is the new 'Liquid Glass' design language, which introduces a glassy, translucent effect to interface elements and icons

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. This design overhaul aims to make iOS more expressive while maintaining its familiarity, bringing consistency across Apple's ecosystem

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Source: Economic Times

Source: Economic Times

Apple Intelligence: AI at the Core

iOS 26 heavily integrates AI capabilities, branded as 'Apple Intelligence'

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. Key features include:

  1. Visual Intelligence: Allows users to search and interact with on-screen content, similar to Google's Circle to Search

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  2. Live Translation: Provides real-time text and audio translation in Messages, FaceTime, and Phone calls

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  3. Genmoji: A generative AI feature for creating custom emoji and characters

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Enhanced Core Apps and Features

iOS 26 brings significant updates to several core applications:

  1. Phone: Introduces Call Screening and Hold Assist for managing unknown callers and customer service calls

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  2. Messages: Adds customizable chat backgrounds, live polls, and improved spam filtering

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  3. Safari: Features a new floating tab design for improved browsing experience

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  4. Maps: Learns preferred routes and saves frequently visited places

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  5. Wallet: Supports digital IDs, including U.S. passports for TSA checkpoints

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Source: USA Today

Source: USA Today

Compatibility and Availability

iOS 26 will be compatible with iPhone 11 and later models, including the iPhone SE (2nd generation and later)

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. However, some AI features may require newer hardware, such as iPhone 15 Pro/Pro Max or iPhone 16 models

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. The update will be available as a free download starting September 15, 2025, just days before the launch of the iPhone 17 series

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Source: Digit

Source: Digit

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