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iOS 26 public beta is live

Apple has released the iOS 26 public beta featuring major updates and interface changes.

July 26, 2025 at 09:30 AM

iOS 26 guide: All the new features for your iPhone and how to use them

Apple's iOS 26 is now available as a public beta with significant new features and interface changes.

Apple unveils major updates in iOS 26 for iPhone

Apple's iOS 26 public beta is live, featuring a refreshed interface and various new capabilities. This update marks the first major interface shift in a dozen years, introducing a clear visual theme called Liquid Glass across devices. Significant improvements include a unified Phone app that offers call screening and Hold Assist, allowing users to manage incoming calls more efficiently. FaceTime now has a tiled interface that highlights contact posters, and live translation features enhance communication across languages. New options in Messages include group chat polls and personalized backgrounds. The update also streamlines the Camera app, while enhancements in Photos and Visual Intelligence suggest a trend towards integrating AI capabilities into the user experience. Users with supported devices can take advantage of these new features, although some functionalities, like spatial images, require specific iPhone models.

Key Takeaways

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iOS 26 introduces a new interface called Liquid Glass.

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The Phone app now features call screening and hold assist.

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FaceTime gains a new tiled interface with contact posters.

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Messages allow for group polls and individual chat backgrounds.

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Camera controls are simplified for ease of use.

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Visual Intelligence features enhance image interaction and task management.

"Liquid Glass is characterized by translucent menus and fluid animations."

This highlights the new design language of the iOS 26 interface.

"Call screening fields incoming calls from unknown numbers, having those callers identify themselves."

This feature improves the way users manage unexpected calls, emphasizing increased security and control.

"Messages gains a way to screen out texts from unknown senders, just by adjusting one setting."

This functionality aligns with trends in user privacy and control over communications.

"iPhones that support Apple Intelligence will benefit from expanded features in iOS 26."

This indicates that advanced capabilities will not just be for the latest models, emphasizing future support for older devices as well.

The iOS 26 update by Apple reflects a broader industry trend of enhancing user interfaces and integrating advanced technologies. The introduction of features like call screening and Hold Assist indicates Apple's commitment to improving user experience. Enhanced group messaging capabilities and live translation services suggest a focus on seamlessly connecting users. As advanced features like Apple Intelligence become standard across various applications, the implications for user privacy and data management warrant attention. New capabilities in visual presentations and streamlined controls speak to a future where personalization and efficiency are paramount in mobile applications.