AllYouCanTech

A Comprehensive Analysis of the Liquid Glass Aesthetic in iOS 26 for iPhone

**iOS 26: A Striking Visual Revamp for iPhone**

Apple has recently revealed that iOS 26 marks the most substantial revision to the visual aesthetics of the iPhone since iOS 7, highlighting a unified design language across all its devices. This update brings a variety of visual modifications that improve the user experience while preserving the familiar operations of the operating system.

One of the standout features of iOS 26 is the addition of a new ‘Clear’ option for app icons, enabling users to change their icons into a monochrome glass style. This expands on the ‘tint’ choices introduced in iOS 18, providing users with a novel method to personalize the appearance of their Home screens. To utilize this feature, users simply need to long-press on an empty area of the Home screen, tap the Edit button, and then select Customize to activate the Clear option.

The update also brings subtle 3D enhancements to Apple app icons, improving their visual appeal in different settings, such as the dock, Home screen, and within folders. Nevertheless, it seems that third-party app icons remain the same in this initial developer beta, suggesting that Apple has yet to partner with outside developers for this update.

Notifications have also been visually updated, taking on a frosted glass appearance that fits seamlessly with the overall theme of the update. Furthermore, the Camera app has simplified its user interface, showing only the Photo and Video options by default, with additional settings accessible through a tap-and-hold gesture.

Other applications have embraced a similar strategy, allowing elements to expand when necessary, resulting in a tidier and more organized interface. Tab bars now hover over content uniformly across applications, further enhancing the cohesive experience.

As this is merely the first developer beta of iOS 26, more modifications and enhancements are anticipated before the official release. Users are invited to provide their feedback and impressions regarding the new design, as Apple continues to develop its software to align with the needs of its user community.

Grasping the Designation of iOS 26 and the Lack of iOS 19 for iPhone

### Apple’s WWDC 2025: The Advancement to iOS 26

Apple recently wrapped up its yearly Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC), introducing the subsequent version of its mobile operating system, iOS 26. This revelation has sparked curiosity, particularly since the present version is iOS 18, prompting many to ponder the omission of iOS 19 and the rationale behind such a drastic leap in version numbers.

#### Grasping the Version Numbering

The main reason for this jump in versioning is linked to marketing strategy rather than a rigid numerical sequence. Apple has chosen to synchronize its operating system version numbers with the calendar year. While the current year is 2025, iOS 26 is slated for release in September 2025, with its capabilities primarily extending into 2026. As a result, for the majority of its lifespan, iOS 26 will be acknowledged as the operating system for 2026.

#### The Schedule for iOS 26

iOS 26 will commence developer beta testing in the summer of 2025, with a public rollout anticipated for September 2025. Adhering to this schedule, iOS 26 will be the active operating system until September 2026, when iOS 27 is expected to be launched.

#### Uniformity Across Apple Platforms

In an effort to ensure uniformity, Apple is also rebranding its other operating systems to correspond with the new numbering system. The following platforms will shift to the 26 designation:

– iPadOS 19 -> iPadOS 26
– watchOS 11 -> watchOS 26
– macOS 15 -> macOS 26
– visionOS 3 -> visionOS 26
– tvOS 19 -> tvOS 26

This cohesive method simplifies the versioning framework and aids users in easily recalling the related operating systems.

#### The Prospects of iPhone Naming

An important question arises regarding whether Apple will implement a similar approach for its iPhone model naming. At present, the iPhone lineup features the iPhone 16, with the iPhone 17 anticipated to debut in the fall. Speculation indicates that Apple could possibly name the next model the iPhone 26 to correspond with the software version. However, this appears unlikely given the established strength of the iPhone brand and the fact that Apple frequently sells older models for several years.

While it is feasible for Apple to rebrand the iPhone to align with the software versioning, it seems more likely that the company will persist with its incremental naming approach. Consequently, the iPhone 17 is projected to launch alongside iOS 26 in September 2025.

#### Conclusion

Apple’s choice to advance to iOS 26 illustrates a strategic marketing technique aimed at aligning its software with the calendar year. This alteration, while initially puzzling, ultimately serves to clarify the association between the operating system and its lifecycle. As Apple continues to innovate and advance its product offerings, the ramifications of this versioning strategy will be closely monitored by consumers and industry analysts alike.

Announcement: Spatial Scenes Functioning with All iPhones Operating on iOS 26

**Apple’s Spatial Scenes: Enhancing 2D Images into Engaging 3D Experiences**

Today, Apple announced a thrilling new capability for iOS 26 known as Spatial Scenes, which transforms how users engage with their images by turning flat 2D photos into captivating 3D visuals. This groundbreaking technology is available even for users on older iPhone models that may lack support for Apple Intelligence, representing a major improvement for a diverse array of devices.

### How Spatial Scenes Operate

Spatial Scenes employs sophisticated computer vision techniques fueled by the Neural Engine to derive depth from two-dimensional images. This method yields a lively, spatially responsive rendition of a picture that subtly changes and animates as the user adjusts their device. The resulting effect offers a stunning, nearly video-like experience, enabling users to relive their memories in a refreshing way.

Initially presented as part of a refreshed Lock Screen, Apple later emphasized that the 3D effect would also feature within the Photos app. This allows users to look back on their cherished moments with an enriched sense of depth and movement, revitalizing mundane images into remarkable experiences.

### Availability Across Devices

One of the notable advantages of Spatial Scenes is its broad accessibility. Although it utilizes on-device AI to produce the 3D effect, it does not rely on the complete Apple Intelligence framework. This ensures that users with older iPhones, provided they run iOS 26, can still take pleasure in the feature. Additionally, Spatial Scenes works with nearly every photo saved in the user’s Photo Library, enhancing its practicality.

### A Move Towards Spatial Computing

Spatial Scenes can be seen as a progression of the Spatial Photos format introduced alongside Apple Vision Pro. In contrast to the latter, which depends on dual-camera depth information or stereoscopic image pairs, Spatial Scenes uses advanced monocular computer vision methods to generate 3D depth directly on the device. This innovation marks a pivotal advancement in spatial computing, delivering a core experience to millions who have not yet tried Apple Vision Pro.

By integrating depth and movement into everyday photographs, Apple is transforming the Photos app into a more immersive and emotionally resonant platform, mirroring the essential selling points of its headset. This evolution not only enriches user engagement with their memories but also establishes Apple as a frontrunner in the incorporation of spatial computing into daily technology.

For ongoing news and thorough coverage of WWDC25, readers are invited to check the dedicated news hub.

Are you enthusiastic about the possibilities that Spatial Scenes offer? Share your opinions in the comments.

Snapchat Set to Introduce New Sleek AR Glasses in 2024

### Next-Generation Snap Spectacles Unveiled at Augmented World Expo 2025

During the Augmented World Expo 2025, Snapchat introduced an innovative next-generation edition of its Snap Spectacles, scheduled for public release in 2026. These updated spectacles, known as ‘Specs’, offer a more streamlined and immersive design, representing a notable advancement in augmented reality (AR) technology.

#### Hands-On Interaction with Prior Generation

In the previous year, an interactive session with the fifth generation of Snap Spectacles showcased remarkable features, although they were mainly aimed at developers and not for mass availability. The earlier model was recognized for its heftiness but provided a foundation for developers to create lenses in preparation for an eventual public rollout.

#### Characteristics of the New Specs

Snap’s upcoming Specs are characterized as “an exceptionally potent wearable computer seamlessly integrated into a lightweight pair of glasses.” They will incorporate see-through lenses that augment the physical environment with digital experiences. Unlike their predecessors, these new spectacles will function as all-in-one devices, removing the necessity for external batteries or computing pucks.

Evan Spiegel, Snap’s CEO, expressed excitement about the forthcoming launch, stating, “We believe it’s the perfect moment for a computing revolution that seamlessly merges our digital experiences with the physical realm.” He highlighted the advancements in artificial intelligence and augmented reality that have made these new Specs feasible.

#### Innovations in Snap OS

In tandem with the new hardware, Snap also revealed significant enhancements to Snap OS, the operating system that powers the Specs. Key features entail:

– **Deep Integrations with OpenAI and Gemini on Google Cloud**
– **Depth Module API**: This capability converts 2D data from large language models to precisely anchor AR information in three-dimensional space.
– **Automated Speech Recognition API**: This feature enables real-time transcription across more than 40 languages.
– **Snap3D API**: Allows developers to create 3D objects dynamically within Lenses.

Further enhancements include fleet management for developers to handle multiple pairs of Specs, a new Guided mode for simpler demonstrations, and Guided Navigation for crafting AR tours in real-world settings.

#### Conclusion

The imminent launch of Snap Specs is eagerly awaited, promising cutting-edge technology and user-friendly features that could transform personal computing. As the public looks forward to their release next year, the innovations showcased at the Augmented World Expo 2025 herald a new chapter for augmented reality experiences. For additional information, interested parties can consult Snapchat’s newsroom post.

iPadOS 26 Improves Budget iPad, Establishing It as the Top Value in the Collection: Main Reasons Clarified [Video]

# iPadOS 26: Elevating the Base Model iPad to a Powerhouse

The recent launch of iPadOS 26 during Apple’s keynote has fundamentally changed the game for iPad users, especially for those with the base model. This upgrade presents an array of features that enhance the iPad experience, rendering it an appealing choice for various users. With a powerful multitasking window manager, improved menu toolbars, superior background task management, and a revamped Files app, the base iPad is now recognized as one of the best bargains in the computing realm.

## Primary Features of the Base Model iPad

The base iPad, retailing at $349 MSRP (often found for less than $300), has consistently been a dependable choice for students, families, and casual users. The 2024 update introduced substantial internal enhancements, positioning it as a modern competitor in the tablet market. Here are some of its key specifications:

– **A16 Bionic chip**
– **10.9-inch Liquid Retina display**
– **USB-C port**
– **12MP ultra-wide front-facing camera** (perfect for video conferencing)
– **Starts with 128GB of storage**
– **Supports Apple Pencil through USB-C**
– **Compatible with Magic Keyboard Folio**

These features guarantee that the entry-level iPad can meet the demands of the new iPadOS 26, which includes functionalities once exclusive to higher-tier models.

## iPadOS 26: Multitasking and Window Features

A highlight of iPadOS 26 is its incorporation of Mac-like multitasking features. For the first time, the base iPad supports:

– **Genuine windowed multitasking**: Users can resize and overlay multiple apps, akin to a desktop environment.
– **New window arrangement**: Snap windows side by side and move them around the screen freely.
– **Persistent floating applications**: Keep essential applications like Music or Messages open while working in another app, with the ability to show up to 12 apps simultaneously.
– **Drag and drop capabilities**: Effortlessly move content between windows, improving workflow efficiency, particularly with a trackpad.

This update opens up access to robust multitasking features, previously limited to Pro-level iPads, to a wider audience without the steep price.

## Crafting a Flexible iPad Setup for Under $450

Thanks to the new features of the base iPad, users can establish a flexible setup without overspending. While buying the iPad along with Apple’s accessories might sum to roughly $700, choosing third-party options can significantly lower expenses.

A complete setup might comprise:

– **Base model iPad**: $349
– **Third-party keyboard**: Around $100
– **Third-party USB-C Apple Pencil**: About $80

This totals approximately **$434 (before tax)**, delivering a powerful device that serves as a tablet, content consumption hub, note-taking tool, and even a computer substitute.

## Closing Thoughts

The base model iPad, once regarded as a simple device, has experienced a remarkable upgrade with the launch of iPadOS 26. It now provides genuine capabilities that appeal to a wide range of users, making it an outstanding value in Apple’s product lineup. While it may still lack some high-end features, the overall experience has improved sufficiently to warrant a reconsideration of its potential.

As users delve into the new features of iPadOS 26, the base model iPad emerges as a practical and powerful alternative for anyone requiring a flexible computing solution.

Highlights of the Keynote Announcements at WWDC 2025

**Apple’s WWDC 2025: Key Announcements and Innovations**

Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) 2025 highlighted a range of thrilling updates and functionalities throughout its ecosystem. Although the company played down notable changes to Siri, the event brimmed with innovations that aim to elevate user experience across all Apple devices. Below is a thorough summary of the key announcements.

### Liquid Glass Design

Apple unveiled a fresh design concept called Liquid Glass, poised to redefine the aesthetics of all Apple devices. This groundbreaking material mirrors and bends its surroundings, generating a lively and visually captivating interface. The Liquid Glass design permeates iOS 26, iPadOS 26, macOS Tahoe 26, watchOS 26, and tvOS 26, guaranteeing a unified experience while preserving the distinctive traits of each platform. Controls and navigation in apps have been revamped to align flawlessly with modern hardware, boosting user engagement.

### Live Translation Feature

A major enhancement in communication arrives with the launch of Live Translation across Messages, FaceTime, and Phone applications. This functionality permits users to engage effortlessly across language differences, featuring real-time translation of messages and spoken dialogue. The integration of Apple-developed models ensures that private conversations stay confidential, as all translations occur on-device.

### On-Screen Visual Intelligence

Apple’s Visual Intelligence has progressed beyond the camera to encompass on-screen content. Users can now interact with what appears on their iPhone displays, inquiring about objects and searching for related products or information. This feature promotes productivity by allowing users to act upon the content they’re observing, such as adding events to their calendars based on identified information.

### Fitness Buddy on Apple Watch

The Apple Watch presents a new feature termed Workout Buddy, intended to inspire users during their exercise sessions. This feature evaluates workout metrics and fitness history to deliver personalized insights and motivation in real-time. Utilizing a dynamic voice model, Workout Buddy provides encouraging feedback, enriching the workout experience.

### Foundation Models for Developers

Apple is equipping developers with access to on-device Apple Intelligence features via the Foundation Models framework. This facilitates the creation of intelligent applications that operate offline while upholding user privacy. The framework supports Swift, allowing for straightforward integration of Apple Intelligence into various applications.

### Apple Intelligence-Infused Shortcuts

Shortcuts have become more potent with the integration of Apple Intelligence functionalities. Users can now formulate intelligent actions that utilize AI for tasks such as summarizing text or generating images. This enhancement enables more personalized and efficient workflows.

### iPadOS 26: Full Windowing Capabilities

iPadOS 26 signifies a considerable upgrade with the introduction of full windowing capabilities. Users can now resize, position, and manage multiple app windows seamlessly. The revamped windowing system boosts multitasking, permitting users to operate more effectively on their iPads.

### macOS 26: Continuity and Spotlight Enhancements

macOS 26 features the Liquid Glass design alongside significant upgrades in Continuity and Spotlight. Users can now make and receive phone calls directly from their Macs, with capabilities such as Call Screening and Hold Assist. Spotlight has been redesigned to deliver smarter search results and enable users to carry out actions without needing to switch apps.

### visionOS 26: Enhanced Spatial Experiences

visionOS 26 brings major advancements, including spatial widgets and shared experiences. Users can now enjoy more lifelike spatial photographs and improved 360-degree video support, making the Apple Vision Pro a more immersive platform for entertainment and collaboration.

### tvOS: Liquid Glass and Karaoke Features

tvOS also undergoes the Liquid Glass transformation, enhancing the visual experience on Apple TV. Furthermore, a new karaoke feature allows users to utilize their iPhones as microphones, amplifying their voices for an enjoyable sing-along experience.

### AirPods: New Features for Creators

AirPods now enable studio-quality audio recording and a camera remote feature, simplifying the process for content creators to capture high-quality audio and video. These enhancements cater to podcasters, singers, and other creators, providing versatile tools for content generation.

### Conclusion

WWDC 2025 has laid the groundwork for an exhilarating future for Apple users, prioritizing the enhancement of user experience through innovative design and intelligent features. The introduction of Liquid Glass, Live Translation, and various improvements across platforms highlights Apple’s dedication to developing a unified and user-friendly ecosystem. As users delve into these new features, the opportunities for creativity and productivity continue to grow.

iOS 26 Unveils Function to Show Projected Charging Duration for iPhone Battery

### iPhone Battery Settings Enhancement in iOS 26: Features and Improvements

With the introduction of iOS 26, Apple has rolled out noteworthy enhancements to the iPhone’s battery settings, improving user experience and offering greater control over battery management. Among the key features is the new **Adaptive Power** mode, which seeks to maximize battery life based on user behavior.

#### Smart Battery Management

The iPhone now monitors additional battery metrics, including average power usage over the course of the day. This functionality provides users with insights into their battery consumption habits, assisting them in making educated choices regarding their device’s power management.

#### Display of Estimated Charging Time

A highlight of the updates is the capability to view the estimated time left to charge the battery to 80%. When the iPhone is connected to a power outlet, this information is clearly shown on the lock screen. For instance, if the battery is at 77% and linked to a slow charger, the device will indicate that it will take roughly seven minutes to attain 80%. This feature is especially beneficial for users employing different charging methods since it adjusts the estimate according to the current charging speed.

#### Overhauled Battery Settings

In addition to the lock screen feature, users can access detailed charging time estimates in the redesigned Settings -> Battery menu. This section now offers real-time data regarding the current charging status, including the remaining time to achieve a full charge. If the device is disconnected, it shows the current battery percentage and the last charged amount.

#### Improved Consumption Monitoring

The revamped Battery settings interface features a new graph that juxtaposes current battery usage against daily and weekly averages. This tool alerts users if any application is consuming an excessive amount of battery, offering insights into possible battery drain sources.

#### Adaptive Power Mode

The launch of **Adaptive Power** mode provides users with an extra tool for prolonging battery life. This mode works in conjunction with the existing Low Power Mode and makes subtle performance tweaks when the device senses above-normal battery consumption. For example, it might slightly dim the display or postpone certain background processes to save battery life. Apple characterizes this feature as adaptive, meaning it will activate only under specific circumstances, ensuring that users experience minimal disruption to their device’s performance when battery levels are adequate.

#### Conclusion

The modifications to iPhone battery settings in iOS 26 demonstrate Apple’s dedication to enhancing user experience through smart battery management. With features such as estimated charging time, detailed consumption monitoring, and Adaptive Power mode, users can gain a better understanding and management of their device’s battery life, ensuring optimal performance throughout the day.

Perspectives from Designers Regarding Apple’s Liquid Glass Design

**The Influence of Apple’s Liquid Glass Design Language on User Experience**

With the launch of a major revision to the visuals of Apple devices, the tech community is buzzing with conversations about the new Liquid Glass design language. This innovative approach to design has received varied responses from design and UI experts, showcasing a mix of enthusiasm and apprehension regarding its functionality.

### A Daring New Appearance

The Liquid Glass design language marks a shift from Apple’s prior flat design style, seeking to establish a more dynamic and captivating user interface. Designers such as Serhii Popov, a software engineer at MacPaw, have lauded the new aesthetic as “truly fresh,” indicating that it improves the overall user experience by making interfaces feel larger and more inviting to interact with. This view is supported by Josh Puckett, cofounder of Iteration, who contends that the reintegration of dimensionality into digital surfaces will pave the way for a trend toward more expressive and experience-focused software design.

Allan Yu, a product designer at Output, also finds the aesthetic charm of the new design appealing, referring to it as “gorgeous.” This enthusiasm underscores a shared optimism among certain designers that Apple’s new direction could motivate a wider movement in digital design.

### Usability Issues

However, despite the favorable commentary regarding the visual elements of the Liquid Glass design, there is a prevailing agreement among professionals about significant readability challenges. Many designers have voiced concerns that the current version may be overly visually distracting, with excessive motion and shifting components hindering users’ ability to concentrate. This feedback indicates that although the design is visually striking, it may struggle to function effectively in practical scenarios.

For example, a reader from 9to5Mac expressed this duality, mentioning that while the design is breathtaking at first sight, it becomes a distraction in real-world use. The aspiration among many is that Apple will refine the design prior to its official release, possibly by lessening background transparency and reducing attention-diverting animations.

### The Way Forward

As Apple progresses in honing the Liquid Glass design language, the insights from designers and users will be vital in defining its final version. The design community’s readiness to allow Apple time to adjust the appearance based on initial beta feedback reflects a collective interest in witnessing the company thrive in this adventurous initiative.

In summary, the Liquid Glass design language has ignited a vibrant discussion among design professionals, emphasizing both its promise for innovation and the hurdles it encounters concerning usability. As Apple advances, striking a balance between visual allure and functional clarity will be essential for the success of this new design strategy.

macOS 26 Launches Spotlight Actions, Clipboard Manager, Custom Shortcuts, and More Features

# Spotlight Takes the Spotlight in macOS Tahoe 26

Following years of gradual improvements, Spotlight is now in the spotlight in macOS Tahoe 26, which Apple touts as its most significant update to date. This version seeks to transform Spotlight from merely a file and app launcher into a comprehensive productivity layer throughout macOS, akin to the experience that Alfred and Raycast users have enjoyed for years.

## A Quicker, More Relevant Spotlight

Spotlight now strives to be the quickest method to explore and engage with content on your Mac. By employing on-device intelligence, it brings forth the most pertinent files, applications, shortcuts, and actions tailored to user context, including recent behavior, daily habits, shortcuts, and clipboard contents. File results are prioritized and categorized by relevance, enabling users to refine results instantly for more exact searches.

## System and App Actions, Integrated

A key change is the ability to access system and app actions directly through Spotlight. Users can now efficiently carry out tasks such as:

– Creating a calendar event
– Sending an email or message
– Starting a timer or voice memo
– Playing a podcast
– Running Shortcuts
– Activating app-specific commands, including menu bar items

These actions can be performed without leaving the keyboard or switching between applications. Apple claims that Spotlight now reveals hundreds of these actions, with developers having the ability to present even more via the App Intents API. A multitude of actions are context-aware and provide parameter fields right in the Spotlight UI, allowing users to input details without needing to launch the complete app.

## Quick Keys: Fresh Muscle Memory for Mac

macOS Tahoe 26 presents Quick Keys, short character sequences that function as keyboard shortcuts for common actions. For instance, typing “sm” can send a message, while “ar” creates a reminder. These Quick Keys are automatically generated based on user activity, establishing a fresh layer of muscle memory for Spotlight enthusiasts and reflecting features found in third-party launchers like Alfred.

## iPhone Apps and App Mirroring

Thanks to Apple’s expanding Continuity framework, Spotlight can now bring forth and launch iPhone applications through iPhone Mirroring. During the demonstration, Apple illustrated how users could launch and manage iPhone-exclusive apps directly from Spotlight on macOS, using Headspace as an example.

## Native Clipboard History

Another noteworthy addition is clipboard history, now directly accessible within Spotlight. Users can search and explore previously copied items, including text, links, and images. A visual preview column on the left side of the Spotlight window enables users to identify from which app or context specific content was copied.

## Spotlight + Shortcuts + Apple Intelligence

In macOS Tahoe 26, Spotlight receives enhanced integration with Shortcuts and Apple Intelligence. During the WWDC demonstration, Apple showcased how users could initiate a custom “Create Tagline” shortcut from Spotlight, automatically utilizing content from the clipboard and receiving AI-generated suggestions in return.

For continuous updates and complete coverage of WWDC25, head to our news hub.

Are you looking forward to the revamped Spotlight? Was the demonstration sufficient to prompt you to switch from a third-party application? Share your thoughts in the comments.

Apple Tackles Siri Lag and Unveils Upcoming Enhancements

### Craig Federighi Assures That Apple Will Deliver Every Previously Announced Siri Feature ‘and More’

At Apple’s latest WWDC keynote, the organization tackled ongoing worries about the delayed Siri features that were first revealed last year and have not yet launched. In a recent interview, Craig Federighi, Apple’s software leader, shared insights into the factors causing these delays and teased further features on the horizon.

#### Insights on the Delays

In a conversation with YouTuber iJustine, Federighi detailed the obstacles encountered in delivering the anticipated Siri functionalities, which were initially planned for iOS 18. He emphasized the necessity of reliability in user experience, saying:

> “What we communicated previously was that we were really striving to get those [features] to come together.