Apple’s iOS 26 will redesign Lock Screen, Home Screen, and native iOS apps

Apple is set to launch iOS 26, a major update that promises to transform the user experience with its Liquid Glass redesign, revealed at WWDC 2025. This new iteration will introduce significant changes to the Lock Screen and Home Screen, enhancing the visual appeal and functionality of native applications. The revamped Lock Screen will utilize a custom font named San Francisco, which dynamically adjusts to display the date and time in a way that harmonizes with the chosen background image. For instance, if a user selects a photo of their pet against a vibrant sky, the time will stretch to fill the sky area without obscuring the image of the pet. Additionally, users can expect an AI-driven 3D effect that animates Lock Screen images, making the subjects of their photos appear to pop out as the device is moved. On the Home Screen, Apple will continue to empower users with customization options for app icons. The Liquid Glass redesign will feature new, visually appealing icons that work well in both dark mode and a transparent aesthetic. A notable addition is an animated feature for music playback that allows users to see short looping clips from music videos right on their locked screens, similar to functionality already seen on Spotify. Native applications such as Camera, Photos, Safari, FaceTime, Phone, and CarPlay are also in line for a significant refresh. The Camera app will streamline access to frequently used settings, making it easier to adjust brightness, aperture, and switch between photo and video modes. The Photos app will reintroduce tabs for easy navigation between the library and collections, a feature many users have missed. In Safari, users will experience a more immersive browsing experience with edge-to-edge web pages. FaceTime will debut a new landing page that showcases personalized contact posters and autoplay video messages from frequently contacted individuals. Similarly, the Phone app will integrate favorites with the main contacts list, making it simpler for users to connect with their most important contacts. CarPlay will also receive enhancements, enabling users to display widgets, respond to messages, and pin conversations directly on their dashboards. For example, drivers can now view flight statuses of friends, ensuring they stay updated while on the road. With these innovative features, iOS 26 aims to elevate the user experience, making everyday interactions more intuitive and visually engaging.