iOS 26 Major Upgrades For iPhone Users Coming This Fall
So yes, Apple has finally introduced the beta version of their iOS 26 recently at the WWDC. Basically, this version is not the final product or the final update of the latest iOS; it’s for developers to try and get a sneak peek of the latest features Apple is trying to introduce through their latest operating system. The beta version is now available, and if you like, you can download it and try it out yourself, but expect some bugs and issues as it is not the final version. Apple has not just introduced the latest operating system for the iPhone only but also for the MacBook, Vision Pro, iPads and Apple smartwatches. You‘ll get to know all about the latest Apple iOS 26 from here, so stay connected till the end and decide for yourself whether these updates are worth it or not.
Why is it called iOS 26?
First, let’s talk about the name! Why is it called iOS 26 instead of iOS 19? It is because Apple has now decided that it will name the operating systems of all its tech devices according to the year. Most people will be using this latest iOS in the year 2026, that’s why it is named iOS 26. And similarly, this can also be seen with the other Apple tech products such as watchOS 26, macOS 26, visionOS 26 and iPadOS 26.
What is the iOS 26 Release Date?
As we informed you earlier that only the beta version of iOS 26 is out now; the final and complete operating system is not yet released. While launching the beta version at the WWDC on 9th June 2025. The beta version is currently available only on iPhone 15 and iPhone 16 series.
Apple has only given a hint of the actual release date of iOS 26, which can be anytime this fall (mid-September). It is rumoured that iOS 26 will be released just before the latest iPhone 17 series hits the market, but as we said, it is rumoured but not confirmed. Click here to read about: iPhone 17 Pro Max vs iPhone 16 Pro Max: 6 Major Changes Apple to Make in September?
iOS 26 Features Preview – What’s New?
Apple is taking the iPhone experience to the next level with iOS 26. It brings a fresh new look, smarter features powered by Apple Intelligence, better ways to connect in Phone and Messages and lots of other exciting updates. Here we’ll tell you about all the latest features and upgrades included in the upcoming iPhone operating system:
New Look Even More Magic
First of all, let’s talk about the most major and prominent update Apple has given to the iOS 26; Liquid Glass! Apple has given a brand-new look to the entire interface of the iPhone; they have introduced a translucent theme that makes everything more expressive and delightful. They have basically made the icons, widgets, option menus and floating screen, etc., transparent!
You can see the background screen and open apps through the widgets, swipe down menu and floating windows. This new design can be seen everywhere in your iPhone, from the home/lock screen to the camera menu. And of course, they have provided the customisation option to manage the theme as you like.
3D Effect on the Wallpapers
With this new update, users will now get a brand-new experience for setting wallpapers. With the amazing features, you can bring your wallpapers to life, whatever the wallpaper is, this new feature will convert it to 3D and give you the effect like it’s moving when you wobble or shake your phone a little. This effect is more prominent on the lock screen as compared to the home screen. Also, the time on your lock screen will automatically adjust according to the space in the image you set on the wallpaper, and it will offer you a fresh feel every time you change your wallpaper.
No More Holds & Unknown Callers
Apple has included all the features for users to stay connected while eliminating the interruptions and inconveniences. Apple has introduced a hold assist feature, through which you’ll get a notification whenever you are no longer on hold. In simple words, if you have called your bank and they have put you on hold due to a large number of customers calling at the same time, your hold assist feature will give a notification when the queue is cleared and it’s your turn.
Another feature for safety included in iOS 26 is called call screening. Ihis whenever you get a call from an unknown number, your phone will ask them for a transcription regarding who they are and why they are calling you. After receiving the transcription on your phone, you get to decide whether you want to pick up the call or not.
Break Communication Barriers with Apple Intelligence
Unlock the new ways of communication with the help of Apple intelligence! With this new feature, you will get Live Translation of the messages, FaceTime and phone calls. It is provided to help users of different languages communicate better. You can hear the phone call in the language you prefer if the caller is speaking a language you don’t know. Also, you’ll get the live captions of the FaceTime calls in your preferred languages to help you communicate better. This also goes for Apple Music, you’ll get the live translated lyrics of the songs available in foreign languages.
Genmoji and Image Playground
The Genmoji and Image Playground features provide iPhone users with even more ways to express themselves. They can mix their favourite emoji, Genmoji and prompt descriptions to create something unique and new. Users can also draw or doodle around in the notepad and image playground, and Apple Intelligence will create the image of the object the user is trying to draw.
Intelligent Battery Features
One of the most prominent upgrades iOS 26 is getting is its intelligent battery features. Now the iPhone will use Apple intelligence to give you the accurate estimated time to charge your battery to 100%, depending on the voltage your phone is getting. Also, the improved battery efficiency intelligence will try to save your battery as much as possible by stopping the unnecessary background apps, tasks, features and modes, etc.
Sleep Detection and Alarm Snooze
Another brand-new feature Apple has introduced in iOS 26 is its sleep detection feature. If you are listening to music or watching movies all night while using your AirPods, the Apple smartwatch will detect if you have fallen asleep while watching the movie, and it will automatically pause the music or movie so you can get the sleep you need. The iPhone won’t directly detect that you are asleep; it will work if you’re wearing your smartwatch.
Loud Ringtones No More
A newly introduced feature, which is called the late-night mode, is also included in the new upgrades of iOS 26. With this feature turned on, your iPhone will automatically detect the surroundings and will set the volume of the ringtone depending on that. If you are outdoors in a loud environment, the ringtone volume will be high, so you never miss your important calls, and if you are in a quiet environment, such as the office or late night at home, your ringtone volume will be low enough for you to hear.
iOS 26 Compatible Devices
Now the main question! Which devices are compatible with iOS 26? The answer to that is that the Apple iPhone models from the iPhone 11 series will support the latest Apple iOS. The names of the iPhone series which will support iOS 26 are:
- iPhone 16 series
- iPhone 15 series
- iPhone 14 series
- iPhone 13 series
- iPhone 12 series
- iPhone 11 series
- iPhone SE (2nd generation and later)
Final Verdict
We have mentioned all the major upgrades which are included in iOS 26, now you decide whether Apple has introduced something new or not. Apple may also add some more changes to their latest iOS in the final release, so make sure you stay connected to our website to get the latest updates and the exact release date of iOS 26. Till then, you can explore the latest iPhone models from our website, Techroid. We offer authentic iPhones with a complete warranty. We offer the lowest iPhone 16 Pro Max price in Pakistan and deliver it to your doorstep for free. Whether you like to shop online or want an in-hand experience, we have both options available. Visit our physical store at Dolmen Mall Lahore to check out the Apple products in person, or visit our website to get the best iPhone 15 Pro Max price in Pakistan. We promise to deliver you only the original and PTA-approved iPhones.