A few years back, Apple introduced its initial approach to journaling with the Journal app. As a dedicated Notes user, particularly for journaling purposes, I decided to explore it. While I quickly realized that this privacy-focused app aimed at fostering deeper introspection and self-discovery as part of an initiative to help users connect with their emotions throughout the day, I also found it somewhat restricting.
In the ensuing years, the company began to better anticipate when I would actually be inclined to jot something down, sending me prompts to reflect after an intense workout, meeting up with friends, or exploring new places, which was delightful.
Nonetheless, there were several features absent in the app that prevented me from revisiting it for extended periods, only to eventually give it another shot and, inevitably, forget about it again after. With the launch of the first iOS 26 public beta, I thought I might attempt it once more.
4 improvements Apple made to the Journal app in iOS 26
There are several factors motivating me to return to journaling with iOS 26. Your experience may vary, but primarily, what I appreciate most about it is how inviting it is to write within the app. Growing up as a teenager captivated by Tumblr, it also heightened my appreciation for aesthetically pleasing apps, which is precisely what Apple’s Journal embodies.
With iOS 26, I can at last differentiate my reflections from late-night musings, personal insights, and other journal entries. After all, sometimes you simply wish to contemplate a rewarding workout or a fun night out with friends without reminding yourself how close you are to hitting 30. Yikes. Another fantastic update is that Apple is extending the Journal app to Mac and iPad. While I usually utilize my Mac for work, there are occasions when I take a moment to note down a thought or similar on my iPhone. Now I can do this on any of my preferred platforms.
Additionally, Apple is enhancing the Journal app’s appeal by including the option to add images and introducing a new map view that displays entries based on their geographical location. “Oh, wow, I was going through a mental breakdown in London,” “I felt truly joyful in Paris,” or “I recall how much I miss Rio.” I can’t confirm or deny that I’ve had such thoughts, but these are intriguing new methods to utilize the Journal app.
Reflect on your day with the Journal app
Jokes aside, Apple’s Journal app stands out as one of the most compelling journaling options since it’s Apple’s exclusive offering. You could already secure it with Face ID authentication, eliminating any concerns about someone accessing your deepest thoughts on a server or in the event of losing your iPhone. There’s no need to synchronize your Journal entries from your iPhone to your iPad or Mac. You can maintain entirely distinct diaries across these devices, which can be advantageous if you share your device (like the iPad) with multiple users.
Users of iPhone, iPad, and Mac can benefit from these new Journal features in iOS 26, iPadOS 26, and macOS Tahoe, courtesy of Apple’s recently unveiled public betas. These software enhancements are anticipated to roll out to all users later this fall. We will keep discussing all the latest iOS 26 features, hidden gems, and more, as we continue our testing.
