iOS 26: New Features, Revolutionary Design, and Apple Intelligence – Everything the 2025 Update Has in Store

1 A Bold Visual Overhaul: The "Liquid Glass" Style

Since iOS 7, the iPhone’s design hasn’t undergone a major transformation. With iOS 26, Apple introduces an interface inspired by visionOS, called “Liquid Glass.” This new look offers:

• Realistic transparency effects, like moving liquid glass.
• More rounded icons, with shading and subtle animations.
• A modular, contextual, and customizable Control Center.

The result? A more immersive, modern experience that aligns perfectly with the Apple Vision Pro ecosystem.

2 Apple Intelligence: Cupertino’s Take on Generative AI

One of the most impressive announcements is the arrival of a native AI called Apple Intelligence. Here’s what it brings:

• Siri gets truly smart: capable of understanding context, responding naturally, and interacting with your apps seamlessly.
• Smart generation of text, images, and summaries in Notes, Mail, Safari, and more.
• Automatic optimization of battery and performance based on your usage habits.

This AI runs entirely on-device on the most powerful iPhones, ensuring privacy and responsiveness.

3 Everyday Enhancements That Matter

Here are some of the most anticipated features in iOS 26:

• Instant translation with AirPods: perfect for travelers, AirPods can translate conversations in real time.
• RCS support: Apple finally adopts the universal modern messaging standard, making communication between iOS and Android easier.
• Advanced multitasking: Stage Manager is now available on iPhone when connected to a USB-C display.
• Accessibility improvements: eye-tracking control, real-time subtitles, and more precise voice commands.

4 Compatibility and Availability

iOS 26 is now available in developer beta, with a public beta coming in July. The official release is expected in September 2025, alongside the iPhone 17.

Compatible devices:

• iPhone 11 and later.

Apple has ended support for the iPhone XR, XS, and XS Max, released in 2018. These models use the A12 Bionic chip, which no longer meets the demands of iOS 26’s new features, especially those involving artificial intelligence and the revamped design.

This means that if you own an iPhone XR, XS, or XS Max, you won’t receive the iOS 26 update, even if your device still works perfectly well. To enjoy this new version, you'll need at least an iPhone with the A13 Bionic chip (like the iPhone 11).

Conclusion: Entering a New Era for the iPhone

With iOS 26, Apple proves it’s ready to redefine the mobile experience. Between the reinvented design, powerful AI, advanced productivity features, and improved cross-platform integration, this update stands out as the most revolutionary in over a decade.