Apple has released the first public beta of its new mobile operating system, iOS 26, featuring the innovative “Liquid Glass” user interface and enhanced AI capabilities. Early adopters can now experience Apple’s latest software ahead of its official public launch later this fall.
This update marks the most significant visual overhaul since iOS 7, introducing a “Liquid Glass” design that gives interface elements—such as buttons, screens, and in-app navigation—a sleek, transparent, glass-like appearance. The design extends across iOS 26, including core apps like Phone, Camera, Safari, and Music, as well as notifications, the Lock Screen, Control Center, and Home Screen.
The new Lock Screen for iPhone and iPad includes a 3D photo effect, a dynamic clock, and updated app icons, which users can now set to a clear style.
On the AI front, iOS 26 introduces real-time conversation translation, AI-powered shortcuts, poll suggestions in Messages, and an upgraded Visual Intelligence feature for image searches while browsing.
Other Apple operating systems, including iPadOS 26, macOS 26, tvOS 26, and watchOS 26, have also adopted the Liquid Glass design.
For iPhone users, iOS 26 brings a dedicated gaming app that centralizes game discovery and play. The Phone app now includes Call Screening, which prompts unknown callers to identify themselves before answering, and Hold Assist, which alerts users when hold music ends. Messages and FaceTime also support live translations, while the Messages app introduces AI-generated poll suggestions.
Additional updates include enhancements to Genmoji and Image Playground, along with improvements to Camera, Photos, Maps, and smaller additions like customizable alarm snooze times.
iPadOS 26 makes the iPad feel more like a Mac, introducing the Preview app for PDF annotation and a new windowing system for better multitasking.
macOS 26, named Tahoe, enhances Spotlight with AI-driven search suggestions and introduces Live Activities for syncing with iPhones.
watchOS 26 introduces Workout Buddy, an AI-powered fitness assistant, and revamps the Workout app with Autoplay Media for automatic playback of music, podcasts, or audiobooks. Apple Music now recommends playlists based on workout types, and a new automatic volume adjustment feature adapts to ambient noise. A one-handed flick gesture simplifies dismissing notifications and managing calls.
tvOS 26 adds seamless profile switching upon waking the Apple TV. Apple Music now supports sing-alongs with on-screen lyrics, allowing multiple iPhones to connect for group participation. FaceTime introduces customizable Contact Posters, and Live Captions now support translations in French, German, and Spanish.