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With iOS 26, Apple is delivering a major system update that revamps many standard apps. The Notes and Reminders apps also receive new features and a new design. In addition to visual changes, the update brings practical additions, especially for users who regularly organize their tasks and thoughts digitally. Some features require Apple Intelligence and are only available on supported devices.
iOS 26 introduces a new design language with the so-called Liquid Glass look and enhances existing features with machine learning and direct access. Notes and Reminders benefit in different ways: Reminders becomes significantly smarter, while Notes primarily receives small but meaningful improvements.
Design: Liquid Glass in Notes and Reminders
Both apps have been updated to the new Liquid Glass design. It features rounded edges, a more compact display, and slightly transparent elements. In the Notes app, this affects the toolbar, which is now smaller and has a matte glass look. Buttons appear as circles or pills with a transparent effect. The keyboard also features rounded corners. In the Reminders app, the input fields and areas are now colored instead of white. Everything is rounder and appears more translucent. Here, too, the user interface has been adapted to the new system design.
Reminders: More features through Apple Intelligence
With iOS 26, the Reminders app not only gets a new look, but also new features based on Apple Intelligence. Siri suggestions are now visible directly in the app. They display tasks recognized from messages, emails, or notes. These suggestions also appear in other apps like Mail and can be added directly to a to-do list without opening the Reminders app. The suggestions are context-sensitive and individually tailored to the user. They show tasks, purchases, or follow-up actions recognized from text in the system. Also new is automatic categorization. The app recognizes similar tasks and groups them automatically. For example, several shopping items are summarized in a common area. There is now also a new way to create a reminder directly from the Control Center. This function can also be accessed via the Action button or the lock screen if it has been assigned there.
Notes: Fewer changes, but useful additions
The basic structure of the Notes app remains unchanged, but it has a few additions that should be of interest to technically minded users. With iOS 26, mathematical equations can now be displayed as 3D diagrams. Equations with three variables are supported, such as z = sin(x² + y²), which then create a wave pattern. The 3D graphics can be enlarged, reduced, and moved using gestures. Handwritten equations on the iPad are also recognized. A new scroll function in the toolbar allows you to swipe horizontally through the tools. Previously, you had to tap the tool area to see all the options. Swiping now makes more tools accessible more quickly. The submenus for formatting, images, lists, and tables can still be accessed by tapping.
More features: search bar, file export and call integration
Also new is support for exporting in Markdown format. Note content can be saved as an .md file and imported into third-party apps. However, writing in Markdown within the app is not supported. The search function has been redesigned. The search bar is now permanently located at the bottom of the folder view. Previously, it had to be opened by swiping from the top. Another new feature is the integration of call recordings. Phone calls made with the new Phone app on iPad or Mac can be saved in the Notes app. There is also automatic transcription if Apple Intelligence is available. This feature was already included on the iPhone in iOS 18 and has now been expanded to other devices.
Design meets function: iOS 26 plays to its strengths
iOS 26 brings significant improvements to the Notes and Reminders apps. The visual changes thanks to the Liquid Glass design create a modern look, while the new features make everyday work noticeably easier. Reminders is significantly more intelligent and flexible thanks to AI support. Notes remains more functional but receives useful additions such as 3D graphics, Markdown export, and a better user interface. The new access via the Control Center and the cross-system integration of suggestions are particularly useful. Anyone who regularly works with to-do lists and notes will quickly appreciate the new features. The best products for you: Our Amazon Storefront offers a wide selection of accessories, including those for HomeKit. (Image: Shutterstock / Yalcin Sonat)
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