Apple announced the release of the public beta for iOS 26 on Thursday. This marks the earliest chance for everyday users to explore Apple’s newest software iteration, which features a stunning Liquid Glass design and upgraded AI capabilities that promise to transform how iPhones interact with users.
The change is so sweeping that iOS 26 drops the previous numbering sequence, aligning the system to the year 2026, an unusual but clear signal of a significant shift.
Liquid glass design: A visual shift in iOS
One of the standout changes in iOS 26 is the Liquid Glass design. This aesthetic overhaul introduces transparent and reflective elements to the interface, where icons, menus, and navigation bars subtly refract light and respond with smooth animations.
Apple’s design aims for a more immersive and elegant feel, with pop-out menus and tab bars that shrink, creating a sleek, rounded look throughout the system. This isn’t just eye candy—according to Apple, this design enhances usability by making the interface feel more connected and fluid.
Beyond looks, this design philosophy touches many parts of iOS, including CarPlay, which now offers a compact interface for incoming calls and easy access to messages with pinned conversations and widgets.
The visual refresh is built on maintaining the familiarity iPhone users expect, but with a fresh, engaging new experience.
Smarter AI and new features enhance everyday use
iOS 26 doesn’t stop at looks; it packs powerful Apple Intelligence upgrades. Features like Visual Intelligence can analyse screenshots more effectively, while improved order tracking in the Wallet app offers users greater convenience.
Messaging has evolved, too, supporting new interaction forms like customizable backgrounds and polls, and Apple’s AI even suggests polls when appropriate.
The Messages app now filters unknown senders into a separate folder, reducing unwanted distractions.
Other highlights include Image Playground, which allows creative image editing with ChatGPT-like controls, and Genmoji, where users can combine multiple emojis into new expressions.
Camera and Photos apps deliver spatial scene features that add a 3D feel to 2D photos, enhancing photo viewing with effects inspired by visionOS technology.
The Phone app gains new call screening tools to help save time, and Apple Music includes an AutoMix feature delivering DJ-style mixes automatically.
The public beta is compatible with devices newer than the iPhone 11, as older models are unsupported.
Apple cautions users to try the beta on secondary devices due to potential bugs and battery drain issues.
This rollout shows Apple’s commitment to blending innovative design with practical AI advancements to elevate daily iPhone use. It makes interactions not only smarter but also visually engaging.