Apple has had a bustling week with the confirmation of the upcoming release of iOS 26. The new operating system is set to debut later this year, boasting a sleek Liquid Glass design that enhances the visual appeal of the interface. Among the key features are a revamped home screen with adaptable clock displays and 3D wallpapers.
The Liquid Glass theme introduces customization options for app icons and widgets, offering a transparent look that seamlessly integrates them with the background. Additional enhancements include improved messaging functionalities, real-time language translation, and a novel gaming experience on the iPhone.
A notable addition to iOS 26 is the Call Screening feature, designed to prevent unknown callers from disturbing users until their identity is verified. This feature allows users to see why a caller is contacting them before deciding to accept the call. Users can manage their call preferences by unblocking or re-blocking numbers as needed.
In a bid to combat unwanted calls, Apple has introduced Hold Assist, which notifies users when a call center agent picks up the call, and a feature in the Messages app that categorizes texts from unknown numbers into a separate spam folder.
Craig Federighi, Apple’s senior vice president of Software Engineering, expressed enthusiasm for iOS 26, highlighting its new design and user-centric improvements that enhance everyday interactions on the iPhone. The update aims to provide a more personalized and efficient user experience with enhanced Apple Intelligence features integrated throughout the system.