iOS 26 iPhones are getting a major update. Apple announced iOS 26 at WWDC 2025. It’s coming to millions of iPhones this fall.

The update brings a new look, smart tools, and better ways to message, travel, and save power. If you own an iPhone, this update matters. Let’s look at what’s new in iOS 26 iPhones and why you should care.

iOS 26 Release Date and Supported iPhones

Apple will release iOS 26 in fall 2025. A public beta is expected by July.

The update will come with the iPhone 17. But older iPhones can get it too. Here’s the list of supported models:

• iPhone 15 series
• iPhone 14 series
• iPhone 13 series
• iPhone 12 series
• iPhone SE (3rd gen)

iPhones older than this won’t get iOS 26. That includes the iPhone 11 and earlier.

New “Liquid Glass” Design on iOS 26 iPhones

Apple calls the new design “Liquid Glass.” It looks clear, bright, and smooth. Menus and apps seem to float like glass.

Your phone will feel fresh without changing how you use it. This new look replaces the flat, simple design from past iOS versions.

The goal is simple: make your phone feel new and more fun to use. The changes are clean, not confusing.

Apple Intelligence Adds Smart Tools to iPhones

iOS 26 iPhones get built-in smart tools. Apple calls this “Apple Intelligence.” It runs on your iPhone without sending data to the cloud.

Now your iPhone understands what’s on the screen. You can:

• Snap a screenshot and search for what’s in it
• Add dates from messages right to your calendar
• Summarize long texts
• Use smart replies in emails

There’s also support for ChatGPT. You can ask questions about anything you’re looking at. It all works fast and respects your privacy.

Messages Are Smarter and More Fun

Apple updated the Messages app in iOS 26 iPhones. You can now see when someone is typing in a group chat.

You can also:

• Send money with Apple Cash
• Start polls to get answers fast
• Make Genmoji (new emojis made with AI)

Type an idea like “grumpy cat with sunglasses” and the phone makes a Genmoji for you. It’s fun and easy.

New Features in the Phone App

The Phone app now looks cleaner. It’s easier to find call logs, favorites, and voicemails.

iOS 26 adds two useful tools:

• Call Screening: Blocks spam and unknown numbers
• Hold Assist: Waits on hold for you and alerts you when someone answers

These save time and make phone calls less annoying.

Real-Time Translation in iOS 26 iPhones

iOS 26 iPhones can now translate live speech and text. It works in calls, FaceTime, and Messages.

You can speak in English and your iPhone will respond in another language. It helps when you travel or talk to people who don’t speak English.

Even Apple Music can now show translated lyrics. You can also hear how to say the lines the right way.

Better Travel Tools in Maps and Wallet

Traveling with iOS 26 iPhones is easier. The Maps app now tracks places you’ve visited. You can check your travel history anytime.

The Wallet app is also smarter. You get:

• Live flight updates
• Gate and terminal info
• Maps of airports
• Digital ID support (in select U.S. states)

This helps make your airport experience faster and smoother.

Battery Life and Power Saving Tools

iOS 26 helps you understand battery use. There’s a new view that shows which apps drain your battery the most.

It also adds Adaptive Power Mode. This feature adjusts phone settings to save battery without slowing things down.

These tools help your iPhone run longer and stay cool under pressure.

Other Cool Features in iOS 26 iPhones

Apple also added small features that improve daily use:

• Photos app has spatial photo effects
• Apple Music offers AutoMix for smoother songplay
• Games app shows your progress and saved games
• Notes app supports Markdown and voice note transcriptions

Each one saves time and makes your iPhone feel more personal.

Siri Still Feels the Same

Siri didn’t get smarter in iOS 26. Apple says it will improve Siri next year in iOS 27.

For now, Siri works like it did before. No big changes. This may feel like a letdown if you use Siri often.

Still, Apple is working on it. They want to make sure the new version is safe and helpful.

Should You Install iOS 26?

Yes. If you have a supported iPhone, install it. iOS 26 iPhones feel faster, smarter, and better.

You get a fresh design, smart tools, and fun features. The update is free and improves daily use. You’ll also get the latest security updates.

If your iPhone is too old for iOS 26, you may want to upgrade.

Final Thoughts: iOS 26 iPhones Are Ready for What’s Next

iOS 26 iPhones bring helpful changes. From smart AI tools to better design, Apple made the update for real use.

Whether you text, travel, work, or play, iOS 26 makes your iPhone better. The update shows that even small tools can make a big difference.

iOS 26 is not just a new version. It’s a smarter, cleaner, more useful iPhone experience.