# iOS 26 Public Beta: An In-Depth Summary
The public beta for iOS 26 has been released, representing the subsequent major update for iPhone operating systems. This release features a completely new Liquid Glass aesthetic, enhancements to well-known iPhone applications, and a variety of new functionalities.
## Indeed, iOS 26
For those who find it puzzling, the transition to “iOS 26” results from Apple’s initiative to standardize its software versioning across different platforms to correspond with the calendar year. Hence, iOS 26 will mainly be utilized during 2026, streamlining the process of monitoring version numbers throughout Apple’s ecosystem.
## iOS 26 Device Compatibility
iOS 26 is supported on the following devices:
– iPhone 16e
– iPhone 16
– iPhone 16 Plus
– iPhone 16 Pro
– iPhone 16 Pro Max
– iPhone 15
– iPhone 15 Plus
– iPhone 15 Pro
– iPhone 15 Pro Max
– iPhone 14
– iPhone 14 Plus
– iPhone 14 Pro
– iPhone 14 Pro Max
– iPhone 13
– iPhone 13 mini
– iPhone 13 Pro
– iPhone 13 Pro Max
– iPhone 12
– iPhone 12 mini
– iPhone 12 Pro
– iPhone 12 Pro Max
– iPhone 11
– iPhone 11 Pro
– iPhone 11 Pro Max
– iPhone SE (2nd generation and newer)
## Liquid Glass Redesign
iOS 26 showcases the most substantial redesign since iOS 13, unveiling the Liquid Glass interface. This fresh design intends to enhance focus on content and vibrancy while preserving user familiarity. Alan Dye, Apple’s VP of Human Interface Design, refers to it as a carefully crafted enhancement that changes interactions into more pleasurable experiences.
The Liquid Glass redesign impacts all facets of the software experience, introducing new icons, buttons, menus, and dynamic animations that react to user interactions.
## Phone App Enhancements
The Phone app has been entirely transformed, featuring a consolidated layout for Favorites, Recents, and Voicemails. New functionalities consist of:
– **Call Screening**: Assists users in determining whether to pick up calls from unknown numbers by accumulating caller information.
– **Hold Assist**: Recognizes when a person answers a call, removing the necessity to listen to hold music.
Additional improvements encompass filtering options for unidentified callers, SharePlay support, and summarized voicemails powered by Apple Intelligence.
## Messages App Improvements
The Messages app debuts multiple new features, such as:
– Personalized backgrounds for chats.
– Polls for group decisions with live voting.
– Advanced spam filtering capabilities.
Group messaging also includes typing indicators, Apple Cash integration, and a straightforward way to add new contacts.
## Camera App Overhaul
The Camera app has undergone a significant redesign for simpler access to essential features while keeping advanced options intact. New functionalities include:
– Lens cleaning suggestions.
– The capability to capture photos or videos with AirPods.
## Photos App Updates
The Photos app features a dual-tabbed layout to distinguish between “Library” and “Collections.” New functionalities comprise customizable layout settings, depth effects for spatial scenes, and event detail viewing.
## Music App Enhancements
Apple Music presents various new features, including:
– **AutoMix**: AI-generated transitions between tracks for a DJ-like feel.
– Lyrics translations for songs in foreign languages.
– The option to pin favorite tracks and playlists for quick access.
## CarPlay Improvements
iOS 26 delivers notable upgrades to CarPlay, including:
– The Liquid Glass redesign.
– Support for widgets, enabling users to integrate various app widgets into their CarPlay interface.
– Live Activities integration.
## New Apple Games App
A new Apple Games application functions as a central hub for all games, leaderboards, and challenges, improving the gaming experience on iOS.
## Apple Maps Enhancements
Apple Maps introduces two significant features:
– **Preferred Routes**: Automatically recommends regular travel routes and offers alternative paths during delays.
– **Visited Places**: Saves frequently traveled locations for easy access.
## Apple Intelligence Features
Apple Intelligence continues its advancement in iOS 26, introducing:
– **Visual Intelligence**: Enhancements that enable users to engage with content on their screens via screenshots.
– **Live Translation**: Real-time translation in Messages, Phone, and FaceTime.
– **Shortcuts**: New smart actions for creating personalized shortcuts.
## Conclusion
iOS 26 is filled with features and enhancements that improve the overall user experience. The Liquid Glass design, along with updates to key applications such as Phone, Messages, and Music, signifies a significant leap forward for Apple’s software. As the public beta progresses, user feedback will play a pivotal role in refining these functionalities prior to the official launch.
