Yes, you’ive read that right, and no, Apple didn't jump several years into the future. They have simply decided to rename all their operating systems to reflect the year. In this case, it's 26.
Apple hypes up what they call Liquid Glass, a design that provides a glass-like aesthetics and glass-like reactions with light and dark scenarios. In short, it looks cool and Apple is very proud of it.
For iOS 26, Apple boasts dynamic lockscreens that changes when new notifications appear. It is pretty cool. On top of this, Apple has introduced spatial shots for your lockscreens, providing 3D effects.
Camera features are getting a refresh as well. Apple has taken a thoughtful approach; you can swipe left or right to switch between Portrait and Cinematic modes. Incredible. Stunning. And if you swipe up, even more camera options pop up, giving you quick access to what you need.
Apple has also introduced CarPlay Ultra, which looks like Apple’s Plan B when the fabled Apple Car didn’t push through. CarPlay Ultra, turns your car into an Apple device with its icons and car controls such as temperature, as well as customization of your digital dashboard. CarPlay Ultra is limited to a certain number of vehicles. Apple hasn’t mentioned any names.
Among the new features Apple introduced, Hold Assist, seems interesting. When you’re placed on hold, which, let's face it, can be very frustrating as it can take forever, Apple’s new OS steps in to wait on your behalf. It mutes the hold music so you can use your iPhone freely, and then alerts you with a ring when a live agent finally picks up.
Apple did a few things on Messages as well. Like, Backgrounds. You can now change backgrounds. What an innovation Apple, I’m not sure if any one else has thought of this.
Apple Music gets a few new add-ons, such as lyrics translation and lyrics pronunciation, so you can better understand your favorite K-Pop songs.
A new Games app will also roll out, for all the games you’ve downloaded across the App Store and Apple Arcade. You can find your friends, see what they’re playing and challenge them in leaderboard scores.
Apple has improved their Visual Intelligence. Basically, it’s Circle to Search from Google. Instead of circling an object, you take a screenshot, and information about that object will pop up.