iOS 19 is dead. Long live iOS 26

From AI-powered call screening and real-time translation to the all-new Apple Games app and ChatGPT image tools, iOS 26 packs in serious upgrades. Apple isn’t just tweaking iOS—it’s reimagining the way you message, browse, play, and interact across devices.

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Apple is done playing it safe. With iOS 26, announced at WWDC 2025, the company is rolling out one of the most sweeping software updates in over a decade. From a brand-new naming system to an all-glass-inspired design and smart, AI-powered features, this update sets the tone for what the next wave of Apple devices will feel like.

iOS 19 is now iOS 26 — and the rest are catching up

Say goodbye to the old version numbering system. Starting this year, Apple is renaming its operating systems to match the calendar year ahead. That means iOS 19 has officially been reborn as iOS 26, syncing up with macOS Tahoe 26, iPadOS 26, watchOS 26, tvOS 26, and even visionOS 26.

It’s a small change that will make a big difference in how users keep track of whether their devices are running the latest version. No more confusion over what version is newer — now it’s all in the name.

Welcome to the Liquid Glass era

The real headline? Design. Apple is introducing a completely new design language across its platforms called “Liquid Glass.” Think translucent layers, glossy surfaces, and smooth curves — it’s a design that draws inspiration straight from the futuristic vibe of visionOS.

From the lock screen to Safari to the Phone app, everything looks more fluid and refined. The lock screen clock can now stretch across the display, tabs in Safari float over content, and system-wide elements like the dock and control centre now have a glass-like sheen. It’s Apple’s first true cross-platform design system — and yes, it’s stunning.

Core apps like Photos, Safari, and the Camera app also get cleaner layouts, with more hidden controls and a focus on clarity. It’s a sleek visual refresh that’s long overdue.

Phone and Messages just got smarter

Apple is also making the Phone and Messages apps a lot more helpful. iOS 26 brings smart call screening and message filtering tools that help you avoid spam and stay in control of who gets through. Unknown calls can now be screened with prompts, giving you just enough info to decide if you want to answer. Messages from unknown senders are tucked away in a separate inbox, waiting for your review.

And finally, Apple’s catching up with WhatsApp: iOS 26 lets you create and send polls in group chats. Plus, you can now assign custom wallpapers for each iMessage conversation.

Hold Assist is another useful upgrade — if you’re stuck on hold, your iPhone can now alert you when an agent picks up.

Real-time translation and smarter communication

Live Translation now works across Messages, FaceTime, and the Phone app, making real-time communication across languages effortless. Meanwhile, Apple Music gets some fun new AI features like AutoMix (for DJ-like transitions), lyric translations, and even pronunciation guides to help users sing along in any language.

Genmoji and ChatGPT come together

iOS 26 also integrates more tightly with ChatGPT — and it’s not just about text prompts anymore. Apple’s Image Playground lets you use ChatGPT to turn any photo into stylised artwork, including oil paintings, comic book styles, and more. It works with Apple’s Genmoji too, giving users a fun, AI-powered creative toolkit.

Don’t worry - Apple says nothing gets shared with ChatGPT without your permission.

The new Games app: Apple Arcade grows up

There’s also a brand-new Apple Games app. It pulls together all your titles, updates, leaderboards, and achievements in one place. It’s your hub for everything from casual games to Apple Arcade favourites, and it looks like a step towards giving gaming a more serious home on iOS.

Visual Intelligence goes deeper

Apple Intelligence is also getting more context-aware with “Visual Intelligence.” Now, your iPhone can understand what’s on screen and act on it. See an event in a message? Your phone will suggest adding it to your calendar. Looking at a product or a design? You can tap into ChatGPT or search platforms like Etsy or Google directly from the screen.

It’s a deeper kind of smart assistant — one that feels more proactive without being intrusive.

Real-time translation across Phone, FaceTime, and Messages

Live Translation is now baked into core communication apps—Phone, FaceTime, and Messages. Whether you're making a call or typing out a message, iOS 26 can translate conversations on the fly. It’s perfect for travellers, remote teams, or anyone trying to bridge language barriers in real-time, without relying on a separate translation app.

Apple Music gets smarter

Apple Music gets an AI boost with new features like AutoMix, which transitions between songs like a DJ using beat-matching and time-stretching. There’s also Lyrics Translation, helping users understand their favourite tracks, and Lyrics Pronunciation, which makes singing along in different languages a breeze.

Final word

Apple’s iOS 26 update isn’t just a new coat of paint. It’s a confident step forward, tying visual clarity with meaningful new features — from smarter messaging and better phone tools to rich AI integration and modern design. The naming change may seem like a small shift, but the experience feels like a big leap. For once, design—not AI—is the star of the show.

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