Apple upgrades iPhone experience with intelligent iOS 26

Apple has unveiled iOS 26, a major software update for the iPhone that introduces a redesigned look, smarter tools, and improvements to everyday apps.

The update brings a more vibrant and personal feel across the system, while still keeping the familiar layout users are used to. The aim is to make the iPhone experience more enjoyable and easier to use.

At the heart of the update is Apple Intelligence, the company’s privacy-focused AI system. It is now more powerful and woven into more areas of the iPhone, helping users do things faster and more efficiently.

The Phone and Messages apps are getting smarter too. Apple says the updates will make it easier for people to stay in touch while helping cut out interruptions like unwanted calls.

Other popular apps such as CarPlay, Apple Music, Maps and Wallet are also receiving new features. In addition, Apple is launching a new app called Apple Games, giving users one central place to find and manage their games.

The update is expected to roll out later this year.

“iOS 26 shines with the gorgeous new design and meaningful improvements to the features users rely on every day, making iPhone even more helpful,” said Craig Federighi, Apple’s senior vice president of Software Engineering.

“Experiences are more expressive and personal, from the Lock Screen and Home Screen, to new capabilities across Phone and Messages that help users focus on the connections that matter most. And with powerful new Apple Intelligence capabilities integrated across the system, users can get things done easier than ever.”

Apple’s latest iOS update introduces a fresh design that gives the iPhone a more lively and personalised feel, while keeping the layout familiar to long-time users.

At the centre of the redesign is a feature called Liquid Glass — a new, see-through visual effect that subtly reflects its surroundings. It adds depth and focus across the system, from navigation controls to app icons and widgets.

This new look extends to the Home Screen and Lock Screen, which now offer more ways for users to customise the appearance of their devices. App icons and widgets can now take on a clear, polished style, giving users more freedom to tailor their iPhone’s look to their personal taste.

Apple says the aim is to make the experience not only more visually appealing but also more engaging and easier to use.