Apple has rolled out iOS 26 worldwide from September 15, 2025, introducing a complete design refresh and smarter AI-driven tools that promise to redefine the iPhone experience. The update is now available for iPhone 12 and newer models, including the iPhone SE 2.
One of the biggest highlights of iOS 26 is the new Liquid Glass design. This feature adds a rippling, translucent effect to icons, wallpapers, and app layouts, making the interface look more fluid and immersive. Safari also gets adaptive layouts, while lock screens now support 3D wallpapers and deeper customization.
Apple has also expanded its intelligence features. With iOS 26, iPhones now offer real-time call screening that transcribes incoming calls, live translations inside apps, and smarter Siri responses that can summarize emails or suggest calendar entries. Creative additions like Genmoji and Image Playground allow users to generate custom emojis and visuals with text prompts, opening up new possibilities for social content and presentations.
Other apps have also been improved. Messages now supports polls, spam protection, and custom chat themes, while the Phone app introduces Hold Assist to play calming sounds while callers are on hold. A new dedicated Games app helps users browse, preview, and manage titles more easily, while CarPlay has been updated with safer voice controls and smoother navigation.
However, Apple has warned that users may notice temporary battery drain or heating issues right after installing the update. The company explained that background processes such as data indexing and app updates run in the days following a major upgrade, which can temporarily affect performance. Apple says the system stabilizes within a few days, depending on usage and device type.
Developers also gain new APIs to design apps with Liquid Glass effects, while businesses benefit from stronger privacy controls, encrypted backups, and more detailed app permissions.
Experts believe iOS 26 could set a new standard for mobile operating systems, combining design creativity with AI-powered productivity, while further strengthening Apple’s position against competitors like Google.
