Apple recently hosted its annual WWDC Developers Conference at Apple Park HQ in Cupertino, unveiling significant changes for the iPhone. The upcoming update, set to be released later this year, will introduce one of the most substantial upgrades in recent times, featuring a new operating system name: iOS 26.
The new naming convention aligns with the upcoming year, simplifying the process for users to identify the latest iPhone update, corresponding to 2026. Alongside the name change, iOS 26 will bring a host of new features and a revamped aesthetic called Liquid Glass. This design overhaul will introduce a visually striking water-themed appearance to various interface elements, enhancing customization options for users to create unique device looks.
Among the enhancements, iOS 26 will introduce innovative elements such as a dynamic home screen clock that adapts fluidly to available image space and spatial scenes that animate wallpapers with a captivating 3D effect as users move their iPhones.
Additionally, Apple has streamlined the Camera layout, enhanced the Photos app, and improved browsing capabilities in Safari. Users can now personalize chat backgrounds for individual contacts, adding a touch of uniqueness to their messaging experience.
The update will also introduce practical features like instant translation during conversations in foreign languages, improved flight tracking, call screening, and enhanced group messaging functionalities with family and friends. Apple’s apps will receive upgrades as well, with Apple Music offering Lyrics Translation for multilingual song comprehension and AutoMix functionality for seamless song transitions akin to a professional DJ.
In Apple Maps, a new feature called Visited Places will help users recall past locations visited. By allowing iPhone to detect familiar places like restaurants or shops, users can conveniently access their visited locations directly on Maps.
Craig Federighi, Apple’s senior vice president of Software Engineering, highlighted the user-centric improvements in iOS 26, emphasizing the enhanced design and functionality that aim to make the iPhone more intuitive and personalized. The update is slated for a September release and will be available as a free software update for iPhone 11 and newer models, according to Apple.