Upcoming Enhancements in iOS 26 and macOS 26: A Highlight of 14 Exciting New Features
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Apple sticks to its regular release schedule, with its annual Worldwide Developer Conference (WWDC) serving as the stage for unveiling software updates for iPhones, Macs, and all other devices.
At WWDC 2025, Apple shook things up a bit with some major changes. This year, all software releases will follow version 26, matching the year that the updates will last until and ensuring consistency across devices.
Let's explore the exciting new features coming to iOS 26 and macOS Tahoe (macOS 26's official name is yet to be revealed) and learn how to get your hands on these updates ahead of their full release.
⚡️ iOS 26: A Stylish RefreshiOS 26 supports devices as far back as the iPhone 11 series (released in 2019) and the iPhone SE 2 (also released in 2020); older models like the iPhone XR, iPhone XS, and iPhone XS Max are not included.
Here's a quick taste of what you can expect:
- Glassy aesthetics: A visual overhaul, dubbed Liquid Glass, brings translucent, frosted effects and a more skeuomorphic design.
- Personalize messages: Enhance your chats with custom backgrounds and create polls using the Messages app.
- Live translations: Get real-time language translations within Messages, FaceTime, and Phone calls.
- Screen distractions: Block unwanted calls and messages, with the option for callers to state their business before answering and filtering unknown contacts.
- CarPlay enhancements: The AI-powered feature now allows on-screen searches and question answering for the iPhone 16 and later. Note: This feature requires an iPhone 16 or newer.
- Gaming hub: A central hub for all gaming activities on iOS, featuring leaderboards, achievements, and integration with other Apple devices.
- Upgrades to individual apps: Explore enhanced features, including Apple Maps' Visited Places, Apple Music's AutoMix, and Apple Wallet's real-time flight updates alongside boarding passes.
✨ macOS Tahoe: Not Yet Revealed
We don't have specific details about macOS Tahoe (the name Tahoe has been used here as a place holder), but you can look forward to discovering exciting new features at Apple's WWDC this year. As soon as more information becomes available, we'll be sure to share it with you!
🛠️ Join the Apple Beta Program
Following its WWDC announcements, Apple also opened a developer beta program. While primarily intended for app developers, anyone can participate. To enroll your device:
- Enroll your Apple account in the Apple Developer Program (this process is free).
- After enrollment, access the beta versions of iOS, iPadOS, and macOS under the “Downloads” section.
For most users, it's a better idea to wait for the public betas, which will be available in a few weeks. They'll be more stable and less prone to bugs when compared to developer betas. Keep an eye here for updates on the public betas.
Important Terms:
- General > Software Update on iOS Settings or General > Software Update on macOS System Settings is where you can access these updates.
- [Terms of Service] and [Privacy Policy] are available on the website for your viewing.
- With iOS 26 rolling out, you can expect a refreshed design, personalized messaging features, live translations, and enhanced gaming experiences on your smartphones.
- For Mac users, the new macOS Tahoe promises exciting features amid the upcoming WWDC, promising a futuristic technology experience.
