Apple iOS 26 public beta arrives

Apple has unveiled the first public beta of its highly anticipated mobile operating system, iOS 26, which showcases an innovative "Liquid Glass" user interface alongside enhanced artificial intelligence capabilities. This release provides tech enthusiasts and early adopters an opportunity to experience the latest software enhancements ahead of the official rollout set for later this fall. The update marks a significant visual overhaul since iOS 7, introducing a sleek, transparent design that redefines user interactions across core applications. The Liquid Glass aesthetic permeates various elements, including buttons, screens, and in-app navigation, creating a fresh and immersive experience in apps like Phone, Camera, Safari, and Music. Notably, the revamped Lock Screen now features a dynamic clock and a 3D photo effect, alongside customizable app icons. On the AI front, iOS 26 introduces a groundbreaking live translation feature, facilitating real-time conversation translation. Users will also find AI-driven shortcuts, poll suggestions in Messages, and an enhanced Visual Intelligence tool for more effective image searches. Other operating systems, such as iPadOS 26, macOS 26, tvOS 26, and watchOS 26, will also incorporate the Liquid Glass design. Apple is also rolling out exciting updates for iPhone users, including a dedicated gaming app that serves as a central hub for discovering and playing games. The Phone app will debut a Call Screening feature that prompts unknown callers to identify themselves before the recipient picks up. Additionally, Hold Assist will alert users when hold music ends, indicating the opportunity to speak with a live agent. The Messages app is set to gain AI-generated poll suggestions, while enhancements to Genmoji, Image Playground, and improvements to Camera, Photos, and Maps will further enrich user experience. A significant upgrade for iPad users is the introduction of a more Mac-like interface, allowing for better multitasking and window management. macOS 26 will leverage AI to refine search capabilities via Spotlight, providing suggestions based on user behavior and recent projects. Moreover, Live Activities will enable seamless syncing of tasks between macOS and iPhones. For watchOS, a key feature is the Workout Buddy, an AI-driven fitness assistant that motivates users during workouts with a generative voice, highlighting important milestones. The revamped Workout app will also offer Autoplay Media, which automatically plays preferred audio content during exercises. In the entertainment realm, Apple TV users will benefit from effortless profile switching, resuming their viewing experience instantly. Apple Music is set to enhance sing-alongs by allowing users to turn their iPhones into microphones, complete with on-screen lyrics. With the introduction of Contact Posters for FaceTime, users can now personalize their video calling experience with customized images and names. Furthermore, Live Captions will expand to support translations in multiple languages, enriching accessibility for a broader audience.