# iOS 26.1: Thrilling New Features on the Horizon
iOS 26.1 is slated for release early next week, and after a month of testing the beta version, several new functionalities are noteworthy. Here are three of the most significant improvements that users can look forward to.
## 1. Swipe to Switch Tracks in Apple Music
While the Music app remains mostly the same in iOS 26.1, a new swipe feature elevates the user experience. Users can now swipe on the MiniPlayer at the bottom of the display to swiftly change tracks.
– **Swipe Left**: Advance to the next track in your playlist.
– **Swipe Right**: Return to the previous track.
This straightforward gesture proves especially handy when the MiniPlayer is minimized, and the added haptic feedback following a swipe enriches the interaction. Many users are eager for similar features in Apple Podcasts for enhanced navigation during episodes.
## 2. Expanded AirPods Live Translation
AirPods Live Translation, first launched in iOS 26, now offers support for more languages in iOS 26.1. Previously limited in language options, it now includes:
– Chinese (Mandarin, simplified)
– Chinese (Mandarin, traditional)
– Italian
– Japanese
– Korean
This enhancement allows users to effortlessly comprehend conversations in these languages, as long as they have compatible AirPods (Pro 3, Pro 2, or AirPods 4 with ANC) and a compatible AI-enabled iPhone.
## 3. Liquid Glass Toggle
A new option under Display & Brightness in iOS 26.1 lets users select between ‘Clear’ and ‘Tinted’ variants of the Liquid Glass design.
– **Clear**: Retains the original design from iOS 26.
– **Tinted**: Enhances opacity across the system and increases contrast, echoing the design from iOS 18.
This feature caters to users who may struggle with the current design while allowing those who appreciate the classic Liquid Glass aesthetic to continue enjoying it without any trade-offs.
## Bonus: Slide Over in iPadOS 26.1
Although not an iOS function, the iPadOS 26.1 update brings back the Slide Over multitasking feature, which had been eliminated in iPadOS 26. While the new app windowing system is more robust, the return of Slide Over is positively received by many users who depend on it for effective multitasking.
For a thorough breakdown of all the new features in iOS 26.1, refer to the complete guide available online. What are your preferred new features in iOS 26.1? Share your thoughts in the comments.
