Fresh Additions in Apple's iOS 26 and iPadOS 26: A Glimpse
Preparing for iOS 26 and iPadOS 26 this fall, here's what you need to know about Apple's latest operating system updates! It's no secret that Apple has changed the way they name their updates - instead of the usual sequential numbers, they've decided to follow a more recognizable pattern, similar to car models. No need to worry if you think you've missed some updates, as the latest will be iOS 26, with watchOS, macOS, visionOS, tvOS, and watchOS also updating to version 26. These updates will be released in the fall of 2025, so let's take a look at what you can expect from iOS 26!
A significant change coming to both iOS and iPadOS is the new design language called Liquid Glass. The interface will have a glass-like feel, with new animations mimicking the bounciness in Android 16. The lock screen features an adaptive time that blends perfectly with your photos, while the time moves behind the photo's subject for a depth effect. You can also turn 2D photos into a 3D effect for an improved lock screen experience.
Another noteworthy feature is live translation, which works in Messages, Phone, and FaceTime apps. This lets you communicate in real-time with people from all around the world. Google has offered similar technology in the past, but Apple's iteration runs entirely on your device and works across platforms, even if the recipient is using an Android phone.
iPhone and iPad users will also appreciate the Visual Intelligence feature. Powered by Apple Intelligence, Siri understands the world around you through the camera. Now, it can also understand the context of your iPhone's screen, suggesting specific actions to simplify your digital life. Similar to Google's Gemini, Visual Intelligence can identify what's on your screen and help you take action with just one tap.
When it comes to compatibility, iPhones from the 2019 lineup and newer (including the iPhone 11 and the iPhone SE 2nd Gen) will support iOS 26. iPads whose models include A16 and later (such as the 8th-gen iPad and the iPad Mini 5th Gen) are also compatible with iPadOS 26. However, the 7th-gen iPad, released in 2019, will not receive the update13.
Stay tuned for more updates on iOS 26 and iPadOS 26! As always, back up your devices before installing the update, and you should be good to go5.
- The upcoming iOS 26 and iPadOS 26, set to release in the fall of 2025, showcase Apple's technological advancements with their latest operating system updates.
- One of the significant changes in iOS 26 is the adoption of a new design language called Liquid Glass, which aims to provide a glass-like feel to the interface.
- The lock screen in iOS 26 features an adaptive time that blends seamlessly with your photos for a depth effect, and users can even convert 2D photos into a 3D effect for enhanced lock screen experiences.
- Live translation, available across Messages, Phone, and FaceTime apps, allows real-time communication with individuals globally, marking a notable feature in iOS 26.
- Apple's Visual Intelligence, powered by Siri, equips iPhone and iPad users with the ability to understand their surroundings and simplify their digital life by suggesting specific actions based on the context of their screen.
- Compatibility in iOS 26 and iPadOS 26 extends to iPhones from the 2019 lineup and later, including the iPhone 11 and the iPhone SE 2nd Gen, as well as iPads with A16 models such as the 8th-gen iPad and the iPad Mini 5th Gen.
- In preparation for the iOS 26 and iPadOS 26 updates, it's essential to back up devices before installation to ensure a smooth transition, as recommended by trusted technology sources such as MacWorld.
