Apple’s Latest iOS; Shiny & New!
Apple releases the latest version of their software on Sept. 15th to run on iOS devices, named iOS 26. It includes a ton of new features, some of which are only available on their newest phones. But most of the refinements and new apps are available on all models, and it’s well worth considering the upgrade.
iOS 26 introduces a major new Liquid Glass design, enhanced Apple Intelligence capabilities, and significant updates to the Phone and Messages apps with real-time translation, polls, and improved call screening features. Key features also include an all-new CarPlay interface, improvements to the Apple Music and Photos apps with spatial photos, and new Accessibility options such as Braille support and customized face gestures.
These are the phones that Apple says can run iOS 26:
- All iPhone 17, 16, 15, 14, 13, 12, and 11 models
- iPhone SE (2nd and 3rd gen)
Though iOS 26 will be compatible with many older iPhones, on-device AI capabilities require an iPhone 15 Pro or later. Here’s their article all about it: Apple Intelligence.
What’s new in iOS 26?
Design & Apple Intelligence
- Liquid Glass Design: A completely redesigned user interface with a new “Liquid Glass” look that is expressive, familiar, and visually delightful, incorporating physics, elasticity, and natural element interactions.
- Apple Intelligence: Powerful new AI features are integrated throughout the system, built with privacy at their core, enhancing user experience and app functionality.
Phone & Messages Apps
- Real-Time Live Translation: Communicate seamlessly across languages in Messages, FaceTime, and Phone, with the ability to translate conversations in real-time.
- Polls in Messages: Easily create polls within group chats to make decisions and coordinate with friends and family.
- Call Screening & Hold Assist: Eliminate distractions with new screening tools to manage unwanted calls and receive notifications when a human agent answers on a call.
- Custom Backgrounds: Personalize your chats with new, custom backgrounds for different conversations.
CarPlay & Apple Music
- CarPlay Enhancements: Get more information at a glance with Live Activities and react with Tapbacks.
- Apple Music Updates: The Music app features an automix feature for smoother song transitions and displays full-screen album art on the lock screen.
Photos & Camera Apps
- Spatial Photos: Create and set spatial photos as wallpapers, providing a sense of depth and a 3D look on the lock screen.
- Simplified Camera Interface: A streamlined camera app with easier access to modes and settings, including a glassy effect on buttons and other interface elements.
Accessibility & New Apps
RCS will bring multiple improvements to conversations with Android users, and Apple is adopting RCS after years of pushing from Google.
- Customized Face Gestures: New face gesture controls allow for deeper interaction with the iPhone.
- Enhanced Braille Support: An all-new experience for Braille users is introduced with improved options and greater customization.
- Apple Games App: A brand-new app offering a single destination for all your games.
Steps to upgrading to iOS 26
As usual, when considering any major upgrade, the first thing you should do is to make sure that your iPhone is fully backed up. You can do this either to your computer or to the cloud. You can check that under Settings:(Your Name):iCloud:iCloud Backup and choose “Backup now.” Alternatively, you can connect your iOS device to your computer and let it back up there.
How to Download and Install iOS 26
On your iPhone, go to Settings:General:Software Update. From September 15th on, you will see an option to upgrade to iOS 26.
Where can I learn more:
Apple has their own page that outlines in-depth all the new features contained in this upgrade.
Apple also has a press release page that hypes some of the biggest features.
What if I’m unsure and want some help to do this upgrade?
Excellent! Contact Us when you are ready and we’ll make sure to take care of you!
