iOS 26 Launch — AI Enhancements, Liquid Glass Design, Beta Available Now

The Apple iPhone 17 event on September 9 brings new phone hardware and the next operating system, iOS 26. The update is already in a public beta, so users can test it before the official release.

iOS 26 runs on iPhones from 2019 onward. It adopts a year‑based version number, skipping 19‑25, and introduces a translucent “Liquid Glass” look that carries across iOS, macOS, and iPadOS.

Key Phone Features

• Phone app redesign – one screen shows contacts, recent calls and voicemail.
• Hold Assist – you’re notified when a call connect, so you can avoid waiting on hold.
• Spam filtering – unknown senders move to a separate folder.
• Live Translation – phone, FaceTime and Messages can translate conversation in real time.
• Group chat polls – quick polls help decide plans.
• Visual Intelligence – a local reverse image search for anything on screen.
• Photos tabs return – Library and Collections appear side‑by‑side.
• FaceTime Communication Safety – calls pause automatically if nudity is detected.
• Custom lock‑screen widgets, 3D backgrounds and improved Focus mode.

Other System Updates

The beta adds a bouncy animation to the passcode screen and Control Center, new AirPods gestures, and a camera remote control button. AirPods also may soon support live translation and rumored heart‑rate monitoring.

Siri is delayed, but Apple is exploring AI models like ChatGPT for future voice assistants.

Security and Privacy

Apple continues to patch vulnerabilities, such as the image‑processing issue fixed in iOS 18.6.2. Two‑factor authentication and password best practices protect users from phishing and hacking. Keeping the system up‑to‑date helps maintain strong cybersecurity.

How to Install the Beta

Join Apple’s Beta Software Program, then go to Settings → General → Software Update and tap the iOS 26 public beta. Use a secondary device if you prefer to avoid risks.

Release Timeline

The final version of iOS 26 is expected around September 16, a week after the iPhone 17 launch.

Tags: smartphone, AI, security, password update