iOS 26 adds Call Screening, Genmoji, Smarter Messaging and more: Details

Apple has officially introduced iOS 26, marking a significant upgrade to its iPhone operating system. This latest version showcases a sleek new design and a host of intelligent tools aimed at improving user experience across various applications. The update features a novel design aesthetic known as LiquidGlass, which offers a smooth, transparent appearance that adapts based on the content displayed. This innovative style is evident in app icons, controls, and widgets throughout the system. Users can now enjoy a highly customizable Lock Screen and Home Screen, where the time dynamically adjusts to complement the wallpaper, while backgrounds respond to the movement of the device. Key applications such as Camera and Photos have also received a makeover, with the Camera app now boasting a more streamlined interface and Photos organizing libraries into distinct tabs. iOS 26 brings advancements to Safari, allowing web pages to occupy the full screen, and introduces floating tab bars in apps like Apple Music and News that elegantly hide and reappear during scrolling. A standout feature of this update is its emphasis on privacy, utilizing Apple’s on-device intelligence to enhance functionality without compromising user data. This includes Live Translation capabilities in Messages, FaceTime, and Phone that provide real-time translation of spoken and written words without relying on cloud processing. In addition, users can leverage Visual Intelligence to engage with on-screen content, such as searching for products, utilizing ChatGPT for answers, or adding calendar events simply by glancing at them. The introduction of Genmoji, allowing for the creation of custom emojis, along with Image Playground for crafting images from simple words or emojis, offers new avenues for personal expression. The Phone app has been redesigned to consolidate Favourites, Recents, and Voicemails onto a single screen. A new Call Screening feature helps users identify and avoid spam calls by revealing the caller's identity and purpose, while Hold Assist alerts users when someone answers a call that was previously on hold. Messages has also been enhanced with the ability to filter messages from unknown contacts into a separate folder, alongside new features for creating polls and sharing Apple Cash within group chats. CarPlay, Apple's in-car system, now allows for calls to be displayed in a smaller window and supports pinned chats and reactions. The new CarPlay Ultra enhances the integration between the iPhone and the vehicle's native screens, providing a more seamless user experience. Apple Music introduces Lyrics Translation and Pronunciation features to aid users in understanding and singing songs in different languages, alongside a new AutoMix function that smoothly transitions between tracks like a DJ. Maps now includes a Visited Places feature, tracking locations while ensuring user privacy, and can suggest routes based on travel habits while alerting users to potential delays. The Wallet app also sees valuable updates, allowing for installment payments and rewards through Apple Pay. New boarding passes provide live flight updates and access to tools like Maps and Find My, assisting with airport navigation and tracking lost luggage. iOS 26 is set to be released later this year for compatible iPhones, promising a wealth of new features and improvements for users.