iOS 26 launches smart features, improved text capabilities, call screening, summaries, and a new Apple Game application. The update is compatible with iPhone SE (2nd Gen) and iPhone 12 series and later ones. However, it does not support the older versions before iPhone 11. The expected launch date of the public beta for iOS 26 is reported to be July 23, 2025, with the final rollout scheduled for later this year. Let’s dig deeper into what Apple is bringing with iOS 26 at WWDC 2025.
What is the iOS 26 Update?
Apple has already announced iOS 26 at WWDC 2022, which implements a significant Liquid Retina design overhaul and novel features. The new update, known for being the most significant update since iOS 7, integrates translucent, light-adaptive surfaces in both native and third-party applications, as well as some AI enhancements.
Apple has already rolled out its iOS 26 Beta 3 and is expected to launch the Public Beta soon. Although the official release date is unclear. Here are some of the features that you must know:
iOS 26 Public Beta and Release Timeline
As per the reports, the iOS 25 public beta is expected to be released on July 23, as noted by Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman. The iPadOS 26, macOS 26 and watchOS 26 public beta are also expected to be released on the same date.
Regarding the iOS 26 steady release, it could be introduced after the iPhone 17 series is released in September. However, the official release remains secret at this moment. If you cannot wait and wish to sign up for the update, users can move to the settings and choose ‘Developer Beta’.
Features of iOS 26
iOS 26 will bring multiple features and upgrades, including Apple Intelligence. Users may find smart summaries, better live translations, and contextual visual actions across applications. Besides, texts app will receive support for custom backgrounds, polls, conversation-specific themes, Apple cash integration and typing indicators in group chats.
The Phone app is also expected to see some cool updates, including call screening and Hold Assist, which remains on hold until a live agent attends. Apple Music, Maps, and others will also have some great updates that can support day-to-day tasks.
Apple will also launch a dedicated Apple Games App, which is a more integrated version of Game Center. Small updates, such as adaptive power mode for improved battery efficiency, custom alarm snooze durations, charge time estimates, and full-screen album artwork on the lock screen, will be available on iPhones.
Compatible Devices with iOS 26
iOS 26 will support:
- iPhone SE (2nd gen and later)
- iPhone 12 series and later
- iPhone 13, 14, 15, and 16
- The upcoming 17 series will come with iOS 26 by default
Previous versions of iPhones, like the 11, are not eligible for iOS 26
What is New with the Camera App?
The Camera app will receive some of the noteworthy design updates with iOS 26 updates. It is expected that the interface will become simpler to facilitate easier access to different controls. Apart from this, there are also new focuses on design.
Liquid Glass Design
Like other iOS 26 apps, the Camera app has implemented a Liquid Glass look. There is a makeover in buttons with more rounded corners and floating over the background with a new depth effect.
When you touch the camera shutter and control buttons, you will find more see-through than before. Hence, you can see the areas outside the image clearly. There is no bar behind the toggles to switch focal length. Overall, the interface is expected to become cleaner.
Two-Tab Layout
The navigation bar in the middle of the Camera app has been removed in iOS 26. Instead, there are only two options left- photo and video.
Although only the Photo and Video buttons appear, you can actually swipe in the same manner to access other options, such as Portrait, Panorama, Slo-mo, Cinematic, and so on.
Pop Out Menus
Some of the controls previously placed at the top of the camera app would be listed in pop-up menus. Whenever you select a mode, such as Photo, you can click on the photo button to access additional features.
The menu features a Liquid Glass look, with large buttons to access features such as flash, live photo settings, night mode, and more. By clicking on any feature, you will get further options for that particular feature.
In video mode, you can access features like flash, exposure, and action. These menu options can be accessed by clicking the menu icon located in the top right corner of the screen.
Remote AirPods Shutter
The AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods 4 can be used as a camera shutter in the iOS 26 update. This means you can click a picture by tapping on the stem of the AirPods. To access this, pair your AirPods with your iPhone, open the camera app, and press and hold the AirPods stem.
You can click pictures using this method or continue holding to play a video. Once you have completed the video recording, press and hold again to pause the video.
Cleaning Warning
With the new update, your iPhone can detect the dirty camera lens that needs to be cleaned. Hence, a notification is sent to your phone informing you to clean the camera.
Developer APIs
Developers can access a new Cinematic mode API in iOS 26, which enables third-party apps to capture Cinematic mode video, the same as the built-in camera app.
Mac Accessibility
With macOS 26 and iOS 26, your Mac can pair with an iPhone to use the iPhone’s Camera app as a lens. A lens on Mac features uses the zoom abilities of iPhone, with the iPhone’s video feed appearing on a connected Mac through Continuity Camera.
Apple detected a vision issue for a student using an iPhone to zoom in on a blackboard during a session, with the feed appearing on the Mac, allowing her to see what was going on while also taking notes.
Wrapping Up
iOS 26 is coming soon with impressive updates and a dedicated Apple Music app. The wait is worth it since it is bringing new features to the Camera App. It is expected to roll out with the release of the iPhone 17 series. The Beta version is available, and now the wait is for the public version.
Also Read:
iOS 26 Beta 1 is here with Liquid Glass UI for Apple’s iPhone
