iOS 26 is about to be officially unveiled at WWDC 2025. There are only a few days left until the Apple keynote – and the update promises a lot. From a completely redesigned design to new AI features and app improvements, a lot is in the works. Here you'll find all the known information about iOS 26 at a glance.
With iOS 26, Apple is planning one of the most comprehensive software updates in years. The last truly major design update was over a decade ago – iOS 7 was released in 2013. Now things are getting serious: iOS 26 brings new visual elements, redesigned user interfaces, and numerous technical innovations designed to make the iPhone simpler, faster, and smarter. At the same time, new AI features will be introduced under the Apple Intelligence 2.0 label and existing apps will be enhanced.
The design of iOS 26 will be significantly changed
The biggest visible difference in iOS 26 is the new design. Apple aims to more closely standardize the user interfaces of iPhone, iPad, and Mac. This includes a new icon system, more consistent controls, and redesigned navigation elements such as menu bars and docks. Glass effects are also expected to play a larger role again. According to known leaks and insiders, Apple's goal is to make the overall experience easier, improve navigation within apps, and structure the entire system more logically. Users will likely have to get used to it a bit – but ultimately, everything should be clearer and more intuitive.
Apple Intelligence 2.0: AI functions are being expanded
Another major focus of iOS 26 is the expansion of AI integration. The initiative is called Apple Intelligence 2.0 and includes the following features:
- Siri is getting features that were originally supposed to be released with iOS 18. These AI upgrades are expected to be available this fall and will make Siri more context-sensitive and helpful.
- Third-party AIs will be more deeply integrated into the system. It is expected that users will be able to choose between different models in the future.
- Battery performance is controlled and optimized by AI. The iPhone is designed to use energy more intelligently depending on usage.
- Apple apps are getting AI features that were previously only available in certain tools. These include Genmoji, Image Playground, and AI-assisted coaching.
System apps: More features and new applications
There are also some new features in iOS 26 regarding pre-installed apps. While not all details are known yet, there are already some hints:
- Apple is developing a new Games app. It will replace the previously neglected Game Center and will offer significantly more gaming-related features.
- The Translate app is getting a major update. When paired with AirPods, live translation will be available for the first time—especially useful when traveling or conversing with people speaking other languages.
- A new feature called Apple Health+ will be integrated into the Health app. It offers food diaries, educational videos, and AI coaching for fitness and well-being.
- The messaging app is receiving a technical upgrade. It will include new RCS features and full end-to-end encryption for even greater data protection.
More features in iOS 26
In addition to the major innovations, iOS 26 also brings many smaller improvements that make everyday life easier or simply close practical gaps:
- The iPhone now shows you on the lock screen how long it will take to fully charge.
- New accessibility features improve accessibility. These include App Store labels, a system-wide reading mode, and other accessibility features.
- The Stage Manager is intended to be integrated in combination with external displays – ideal for productive work on the monitor.
- Synchronization with so-called captive WiFi networks (e.g. in hotels) is simplified.
- Apple promises an overall more stable system with iOS 26. It's said to be "fewer buggy," which is a positive after the rather mixed iOS updates of recent years.
- The feature for background noises such as white noise gets three new options.
- A new keyboard for Arabic and English enables bilingual writing – important for users in growing markets.
- Transferring your eSIM to Android smartphones is also easier. This is a practical feature, especially for users who want to switch ecosystems.
iOS 26 will be a major update
With iOS 26, Apple won't just add a few features or rework apps, but will also redesign the iPhone in many areas. The new design brings a breath of fresh air, the AI features ensure greater efficiency, and the app extensions offer real added value. So, if you're an iPhone user, it's worth keeping a close eye on the update. The final presentation will take place at WWDC 2025 – there we'll find out which features actually made it into the system and what Apple might still surprise us with. Looking for new accessories? Visit our Amazon Storefront – there you'll find a variety of products from leading manufacturers, including products for HomeKit and more! (Image: Shutterstock / SashaMagic)
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