Breaking Away from the Glass Screen: The Game-Changing Advancements in iOS 26
Fresh Additions in iOS 26: A Look at Its Key Enhancements
By Klaus Wedekind (with insights)
The eagerly anticipated iOS 26 update is set to take iPhones by storm this September, not just with a striking revamp of their user interface, but also by introducing a suite of practical new features like live translations and a sophisticated voicemail system.
At the opening of the WWDC developer conference, Apple previewed its latest operating system, and its significance doesn't merely stem from the leap in numbering since 2013, but also because this is the first time Apple has undertaken a complete overhaul of the user interface since 2013. Besides these transformative changes, other advancements, though less revolutionary, are still noteworthy.
The Spectacular "Liquid Glass" Design
Apple is merging its operating systems, leaving a clear mark not only in the shared 26 version number but also in the shared "Liquid Glass" look for user interfaces. According to Apple, these interfaces will dynamically adapt to highlight content, employing translucent elements that seem to float above other content. This results in a more lively and interactive experience with controls, navigation, app icons, widgets, and so on.
This overhaul is evident on the lock screen, where the time clock gracefully adjusts to fit the picture's dimensions. You'll also see a 3D effect with background images when moving your iPhone around. A transparent address bar in the Safari browser allows websites to fill the entire display on iOS 26, while the Camera app adopts a more minimalistic design with the shutter button now floating above the preview. Lastly, the Photos app gains a contemporary, transparent aesthetic with separate tabs for the media library and collections.
A Smarter, Savvier iPhone
Though Apple had to postpone turning Siri into a similarly powerful AI assistant like Google Gemini until next year, iOS 26 still boasts some enticing new or enhanced features.
Live translations for text and audio lead the list, quickly becoming available in messages, FaceTime, and phone calls. Initially, this option will only support speech in English, Spanish, German, French, and Portuguese, with more languages available for text translations.
Visual Intelligence introduces versatile features like seeking ChatGPT's advice about matters on the screen or using it to find similar images and products on Google, Etsy, or other compatible apps. Additionally, iOS 26 makes it possible to have events automatically added to your calendar with location, date, and time information – all in English.
Shortcuts now integrate Apple Intelligence functions within iOS 26, allowing users to automate tasks like image editing, event summarization, and product matching. Furthermore, the AI can automatically identify shipping information from emails sent by retailers and suppliers.
Revolutionary Shifts in Communication
The Phone app now boasts a unified layout that brings together favorites, the call list, and voicemails within a single interface. It can also respond to calls from unknown numbers by gathering information to help you decide whether to accept or decline the call. A hold assistant is also included, which takes over during a call and alerts you when a human is available on the line.
Some users are feeling divided: With iOS 26, it's now possible to filter out messages from unknown senders. A dedicated folder stores these messages, allowing you to recognize the sender, request additional information, or delete it. The messages remain muted until you approve the sender.
Impressive new capabilities in the messaging app include the option to create up to 26 polls, suggestions for poll topics from Apple Intelligence, adding custom backgrounds created in Image Playground to conversations, and more. In group chats, typing indicators are now available, as well as the ability to send and request Apple Cash.
CarPlay, your in-car companion, benefits from updates such as a compact view for incoming calls that displays essential caller information without omitting vital information like directions. You'll also enjoy quick reactions to messages with emojis and symbols (Tapbacks). Furthermore, the iOS 26 update introduces pinned conversations, widgets, and real-time (Live Activities) compact information about sports scores, delivery status, travel plans, and other events.
More Features and Improvements
"With Lyrics Pronunciation, everyone can sing along, regardless of the language they speak," Apple writes. The result is amusing and chaotic, as this means real-time translations of song lyrics in Apple Music.
In Wallet, you can now view live information from airlines regarding gates, delays, and other updates, as well as airport maps.
Apple Games, a new app, debuts as a central hub for finding games from the App Store and Apple Arcade, complete with events and updates.
The AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods 4 (ANC) will soon offer studio-quality audio recordings and can function as a camera remote under iOS 26.
Parents will appreciate the additional child safety features, including allowing contact requests and blurring sensitive content in FaceTime calls and photos in shared albums. They can also grant children temporary permission to download an app with age-restricted content.
The Safari browser sees improved protection against fingerprinting, a technique used for unique online identification and tracking based on device or browser data.
Among the accessibility features, users can now interact with Braille displays, enabling them to create Braille notes or perform calculations on their iPhone.
Source: ntv.de
- iOS
- iPhone
- Apple
- WWDC
- Operating Systems
Insights:
- Beyond the revamped user interface design and "Liquid Glass" look, iOS 26 introduces a suite of innovative features in various apps and functionalities. These enhancements are designed to streamline user interactions and provide a more personalized and engaging experience.
- Some of the notable improvements include Message App updates, Phone App improvements, CarPlay enhancements, Apple Music updates, Maps and Wallet improvements, Apple Games, Apple Intelligence, Lock Screen and Home Screen changes, and accessibility features like Braille support.
Community policy should be updated to address the new features and potential privacy concerns in iOS 26, such as the ability to filter out messages from unknown senders and the introduction of Apple Intelligence functions.
Employment policy within the tech industry could be revised to accommodate the increasing use of smartphones and technology like the iPhone, particularly with updates like live translations and visual intelligence in iOS 26, which might impact workplace communication and productivity.
