Apple has introduced what it’s calling its “broadest software design update ever” with the launch of iOS 26, featuring a striking new design language called Liquid Glass, expanded AI capabilities, and a brand-new gaming hub.
Unveiled during Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC25), iOS 26 marks a significant leap from last year’s iOS 18. Apple has aligned the version number with the calendar year to reflect when the software will be widely adopted.
A cohesive design shift across Apple’s ecosystem
Apple confirmed that iOS 26 will bring a refreshed design across all its platforms-including iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch, and Apple TV. Central to this update is the new Liquid Glass design, which Apple describes as a breakthrough material created through a collaboration between its design and engineering teams.
Used across UI elements such as buttons, switches, sliders, text, and media controls, Liquid Glass renders these components translucent and responsive, mimicking the look and feel of real glass. Apple says the material uses real-time rendering and adapts to motion with specular highlights, offering a fluid and immersive experience.
The update also includes customisable icons and widgets, which employ “multiple layers” of Liquid Glass and automatically shift between light and dark modes based on user context.
“At Apple, we’ve always believed in deeply integrating hardware and software to create intuitive and beautiful experiences,” said Alan Dye, Apple’s vice president of human interface design.
“This is our most comprehensive design refresh yet. Liquid Glass blends the visual depth of glass with a dynamic responsiveness that only Apple can deliver. It transforms in real time, adapting to your content and surroundings.”
Revamped UI and navigational controls
iOS 26 also introduces redesigned toolbars, navigations, and in-app controls, which now feature rounded, concentric corners rather than traditional square edges. These elements float as transparent layers above app content, contributing to a more cohesive visual experience.
Apple Intelligence: AI integration gets a major boost
The update brings expanded AI functionality under the new Apple Intelligence banner. Notable features include:
- Live translation built directly into Messages, Phone, and FaceTime.
- Visual Intelligence, which allows users to interact with supported apps like Google, Etsy, and ChatGPT directly from the homescreen.
- Context-aware suggestions, such as adding events to your calendar when they appear onscreen.
Gaming and AirPods features
iOS 26 introduces Apple Games, a new app designed as an all-in-one destination for players, alongside updates for AirPods. Notable additions include:
- Studio-quality audio recording on AirPods.
- Camera remote control: users can now press and hold their AirPods’ stems to snap a photo or start recording video.
“iOS 26 shines with a stunning new design and enhancements to the features users depend on,” said Craig Federighi, Apple’s senior vice president of software engineering.
“From the lock screen to messaging, this update makes the iPhone more expressive, personal, and powerful. With the integration of Apple Intelligence, users can do more-faster and easier.”
Looking ahead: brain-controlled tech and foldables
The reveal of iOS 26 follows Apple’s recent announcement of a partnership with neurotechnology company Synchronto develop brain-controlled devices, including iPhones and iPads. Earlier this year, the company also filed a patent for a foldable Apple Watch with dual displays, signaling more innovation to come.
iOS 26 will be rolled out across Apple’s devices later this year.
