AllYouCanTech

Summary of New iOS 26 Application Icons Shown on iPhone Home Screen

# iOS 26: An In-Depth Examination of the Liquid Glass Revamp

The launch of iOS 26 signifies a notable progression in Apple’s mobile operating system, unveiling a refreshed visual style that goes beyond simple functionality. The Liquid Glass revamp introduces a contemporary appearance to system elements, such as buttons and tab bars, alongside a complete redesign of app icons for the first time since iOS 7. This article explores the alterations and enhancements that users can anticipate with the latest update.

## A Fresh Appearance for App Icons

One of the most remarkable aspects of iOS 26 is the thorough overhaul of all system app icons. The update guarantees a visually consistent experience on the iPhone home screen, representing a significant improvement from the previous iOS 18 icons. Users can now juxtapose the new app icons alongside their iOS 18 versions to recognize the advancements in design.

## Harmonizing Visual Styles Across Platforms

Apple has seized this opportunity to synchronize the visual portrayal of app icons across its various platforms. Previously, iOS, macOS, watchOS, and visionOS exhibited unique icon styles, with macOS featuring more three-dimensional effects and shadows, while watchOS icons were circular but bore minimal resemblance to their visionOS equivalents.

With iOS 26, Apple has standardized the iconography across its platforms. The icons on iOS and macOS now share the same ‘squircle’ rounded rectangle shape, fostering a more uniform user experience. Moreover, watchOS and visionOS icons have been modified to align with the new design, simply trimmed into a circular format.

## Improved Design Features

The newly designed app icons incorporate sophisticated design attributes, such as glass layers that contribute edge highlights and blur effects. Apple has established new alignment standards that specify how circular elements within the icons are inset from the edges. The squircle shape itself has been polished, showcasing a subtly modified ellipse with an increased corner radius.

On iPhone and iPad, the glass layers of the icons even react to device movement, producing dynamic directional light effects that elevate the visual allure. These upgrades enhance the immersive experience for users.

## Aesthetic Enhancements

In general, the new icons are widely considered a step forward compared to their iOS 18 predecessors. The design team at Apple has invested substantial effort in ensuring that the icons not only appear better but also feel more cohesive within the overall system. User opinions are welcomed, as many are keen to express their views on the new visual aesthetic.

## Final Thoughts

iOS 26 and iPadOS 26 have officially launched, bringing with them an array of updates and enhancements, especially concerning app icon design. Users can anticipate automatic updates to be rolled out in the upcoming weeks, although manual updates can be initiated through Settings -> General -> Software Update.

With the Liquid Glass revamp, Apple persists in pushing the frontiers of mobile design, ensuring that its devices retain their visual appeal and user-friendliness.

HomePod 26 Launches Three Fresh Features for Apple’s Intelligent Speakers

# HomePod 26 Software Update: Main Features and Enhancements

Apple has announced the release of HomePod version 26, the newest software update for its HomePod and HomePod mini devices. This update brings forth various improvements aimed at enhancing the user experience, especially in music playback and connectivity.

## New Features in HomePod 26

### 1. Crossfade for Apple Music

A highlight of this update is the introduction of Crossfade for Apple Music. This feature, which has been accessible on iPhone, iPad, and Mac for some time, allows for a smooth transition between tracks. With Crossfade activated, the song currently playing will slowly fade out as the following track fades in, ensuring an uninterrupted music experience. This improvement aligns the HomePod’s functionality more closely with other Apple devices.

### 2. AirPlay Enhancements

The update also brings considerable enhancements to AirPlay functionality. Users can now instruct Siri on their HomePod to stream audio to another HomePod speaker in their residence. This improvement streamlines the management of music playback across several HomePod devices, making it simpler to enjoy synchronized audio in various rooms.

### 3. Wi-Fi Network Selection

Another significant enhancement is the option to manually choose the Wi-Fi network for the HomePod. Previously, the device was set to automatically connect to the same network as the user’s iPhone or iPad, with no option for manual selection. With this update, users can now directly select their desired Wi-Fi network through the Home app, improving connectivity options and flexibility.

## Additional Updates

Besides these new features, Apple has pointed out that the HomePod 26 update addresses multiple bug fixes and stability improvements, resulting in a more dependable user experience.

## Future Prospects

As Apple continues to advance its HomePod series, there is optimism for further enhancements in future software updates, particularly with the expected launch of the HomePod mini 2 and the rumored HomePad/HomePod Touch. These forthcoming devices could introduce even more sophisticated features and capabilities, further enriching the smart home landscape.

In summary, the HomePod 26 software update delivers significant upgrades that enhance music playback, connectivity, and overall functionality, solidifying the HomePod’s role as an essential component of the Apple ecosystem.

Altering the Safari Toolbar Appearance on iPhone in iOS 26

# iOS 26 Safari Browser: An In-Depth Look at the Revamped Design and Layout Choices

The launch of iOS 26 has introduced substantial modifications to the Safari browser on iPhone, unveiling a new design scheme defined by Liquid Glass aesthetics. This updated interface showcases floating toolbars and buttons that gracefully shine through web page content as users navigate, elevating the overall browsing experience.

## Default Compact Layout

iOS 26 defaults to a Compact layout, optimizing the user interface by concealing several frequently used buttons. In this setting, the URL bar is located at the bottom of the screen, slightly away from the edge, and is bordered by the back button and the ••• button, which reveals extra page controls. The Compact layout features a single row of controls that shrink in size as users scroll down and expand to full size when scrolling back up.

### Gesture Navigation

Compact mode also introduces gesture-driven navigation for managing tabs, eliminating the necessity for visible buttons. Users can swipe on the URL bar to access tab view or swipe left and right to transition between tabs, fostering a more seamless interaction with the browser.

## Alternative Layout Options

Although the Compact layout emphasizes minimalism, some users may favor a more conventional interface with visible buttons for actions like Share, Tabs, or Bookmarks. Thankfully, iOS 26 permits users to personalize their Safari experience. To change layouts, go to Settings -> Safari -> Tabs and choose from the available selections: Compact, Bottom, or Top.

### Bottom Layout

The Bottom layout maintains a floating design akin to the ‘Tab Bar’ mode from iOS 18, featuring a full-width URL bar and a comprehensive navigation control toolbar when expanded. As users scroll down, the interface shrinks to resemble the Compact layout, but essential buttons for Share, Bookmarks, and Tabs remain visible, ensuring quick access to vital functions.

### Top Layout

For users who favor a more traditional browsing experience, the Top layout provides a classic interface. In this configuration, the URL bar is fixed at the top of the screen, while navigation controls are placed in a toolbar at the bottom. This layout is perfect for those used to the classic header and footer design of Safari.

## Floating Toolbars

Across all layout modes, the toolbars are crafted to float rather than be docked, aligning with the iPhone screen’s curved edges. This design decision enhances the browser’s aesthetic appeal and usability, while the toolbars continue to slide away as users scroll, preserving a clean and unobtrusive interface.

## Conclusion

The iOS 26 Safari browser unveils a contemporary design with multiple layout options to accommodate diverse user preferences. Whether selecting the minimalist Compact layout, the practical Bottom layout, or the classic Top layout, users can relish a customized browsing experience that aligns with their requirements. With the introduction of gesture navigation and floating toolbars, Safari on iOS 26 is set to transform the way users engage with the web.

SmartGym App Unveils Enhanced Apple Intelligence Capabilities, Aesthetic Overhaul, and Further Improvements

**SmartGym: Optimized Fitness Experience with iOS 26 Update**

Over the past few years, SmartGym has served as a vital partner during every workout. Thanks to the recent update that coincides with iOS 26 and Apple’s Foundation Models framework, SmartGym has gained even greater strength and usability.

**Visual Revamp with Liquid Glass Design**

The newest update seamlessly incorporates SmartGym with Apple’s Liquid Glass design, ensuring a smooth and native experience. The CEO of SmartGym mentioned that they not only followed the standard guidelines but also improved various elements of the app, including charts and workout visuals, to embody this fresh aesthetic.

**AI-Driven Routines Import**

A key highlight of this update is the incorporation of Apple’s Foundation Models framework, which employs on-device AI to assist users in designing and modifying their training routines. Users can now bring in plain-text workout routines by effortlessly copying and pasting them into SmartGym. The app organizes these routines automatically, incorporating sets, reps, and rest periods, and customizes them according to available equipment.

**Enhanced Smart Trainer Features**

The Smart Trainer feature has also seen substantial improvements. It now monitors user progress and recommends modifications to maximize training sessions. This feature not only boosts workout efficiency but also supplies clear instructions for each exercise, ensuring users grasp how to execute them properly.

**Additional AI-Enhanced Features**

In addition to routine imports, SmartGym now provides personalized greeting messages based on users’ health information, helping to inspire them for their workouts. Users can even personalize the tone of these greetings, ranging from highly motivational to playfully snarky.

The app will also create informative monthly summaries, routine analyses, and performance statistics, offering users a thorough perspective on their fitness journey. Furthermore, a new chatbot feature permits users to inquire about nearly 700 exercises contained within the app’s library.

**New Functionalities and Features**

This update brings forth several new functionalities that leverage the latest iOS capabilities:

– **Widgets:** Redesigned widgets for the Home and Lock screens improve accessibility.
– **Apple Watch Control Center:** Users can now incorporate SmartGym controls into the Apple Watch Control Center for faster workout access.
– **Heart Rate Sensor Compatibility:** The app supports heart rate monitoring with AirPods Pro 3 and Powerbeats Pro 2, allowing users to track their heart rate without the need for an Apple Watch.

The update also brings support for AlarmKit, Live Workout Builder, continuous Live Activities, and more. SmartGym is free to download from the App Store, offering various subscription plans that make it a valuable resource for fitness enthusiasts.

iPadOS 26 Launched with Major Enhancements: Important New Features Detailed

Apple has launched iPadOS 26, its latest significant software update for iPad users—and it’s substantial. Here’s a summary of what’s included in iPadOS 26.

## Installation and device compatibility

iPadOS 26 can be downloaded via the iPad’s Settings app. To locate the update, navigate to Settings ⇾ General ⇾ Software Update.

If your iPad can currently operate iPadOS 18, the latest software version, it will almost certainly be compatible with iPadOS 26 as well. The only iPad model that has been discontinued this year is the standard iPad (7th generation).

Below is the list of compatible iPad models:

– iPad Pro 13-inch (M4)
– iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd generation and more)
– iPad Pro 11-inch (1st generation and more)
– iPad Air (M2 and more)
– iPad Air (3rd generation and more)
– iPad mini (A17 Pro)
– iPad mini (5th generation and more)
– iPad (A16)
– iPad (8th generation and more)

## iPadOS 26: Enhanced features for productivity and beyond

iPadOS 26 marks the most significant software upgrade for the iPad to date.

A significant portion of this milestone is attributed to productivity enhancements. Apple is transforming the iPad into a much more formidable alternative to the Mac, primarily due to inspirations from macOS.

New productivity enhancements include:

– **Revamped app windowing system**: Resize app windows at will and multitask with several on-screen simultaneously
– **Introduction of the menu bar on iPad**: A new menu bar provides essential app controls and shortcuts
– **Enhanced Dock**: Add more apps than ever, including file folders, while keeping the Dock always visible
– **Improvements in file management**: The Files app is evolving to resemble Finder from macOS in functionality
– **More accurate cursor**: The previously round cursor is now sharper and resembles Mac’s design
– **Background Tasks with Live Activities**: Execute resource-intensive processes that continue through Live Activities
– **Audio recording enhancements**: Local Capture, Voice Isolation, and a new Input Picker

In addition to productivity enhancements, iPadOS 26 unveils Apple’s new **Liquid Glass design**, reshaping the visual and functional aspects of iPad software. Liquid Glass will also be available on iPhone with iOS 26 and across Apple’s entire platform lineup.

iPad users will encounter four completely new Apple applications in iPadOS 26:

– [Journal](https://9to5mac.com/2025/06/17/apples-journal-app-is-coming-to-ipad-and-mac-with-big-upgrades/): Apple’s journaling application is now accessible on iPhone, iPad, and Mac
– [Apple Games](https://9to5mac.com/2025/06/09/apple-unveils-new-apple-games-app/): A consolidated hub for all your gaming activity
– [Preview](https://9to5mac.com/2025/08/12/ipad-ios-26-preview-app-easter-egg-liquid-glass/): A specialized hub for viewing PDFs and images
– [Phone](https://9to5mac.com/2025/08/19/heres-everything-new-for-the-phone-app-in-ios-26/): Manage phone calls through continuity features on iPad

Lastly, there are several desirable **new features in existing Apple iPad applications** that users are familiar with and enjoy. You can review summaries of all the new features through these links: [Messages](https://9to5mac.com/2025/06/09/heres-everything-new-in-the-messages-app-with-ios-26/), [Music](https://9to5mac.com/2025/06/25/heres-everything-new-coming-to-apple-music-in-ios-26/), [Photos](https://9to5mac.com/2025/07/01/heres-everything-new-for-apple-photos-in-ios-26/), [Notes](https://9to5mac.com/2025/06/12/heres-everything-new-for-apple-notes-in-ios-26/), [Reminders](https://9to5mac.com/2025/06/17/heres-everything-new-in-reminders-with-ios-26/), [Maps](https://9to5mac.com/2025/06/11/heres-everything-new-coming-to-apple-maps-in-ios-26/),

iOS 26 Released: Fresh Features and Enhancements for iPhone Users

iOS 26 has been launched. The most significant redesign of iPhone software since iOS 7 in 2013 is now accessible as a complimentary update for compatible devices. Along with a fresh appearance, iOS 26 enhances core applications and advances Apple Intelligence in innovative ways. Here are the key features.

## Liquid Glass redesign across iPhone

Not since iOS 7 in 2013 has Apple altered the appearance of its software so dramatically. Apple refers to the new aesthetic as Liquid Glass.

The material bends and reflects what lies below, crafting a dynamic, fluid effect that adds depth to the Lock Screen, app icons, Control Center, and system applications. The redesign aims to make iOS more expressive while retaining its familiarity, and it also fosters consistency across iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch, and Apple TV.

The Lock Screen has been updated with a more dynamic clock that automatically adjusts to remain visible alongside notifications, while photos can transform into spatial scenes with subtle 3D depth as you move your device.

Album art in Music can animate behind playback controls, and app icons now provide greater personalization with light, dark, tinted, and clear styles.

Each app including Camera, Photos, Safari, and FaceTime has been reimagined with the same Liquid Glass foundation. Safari introduces a new floating tab design, while FaceTime receives a revamped landing page that showcases recent contacts with animated posters and video previews.

## Apple Intelligence in action

Apple Intelligence expands in iOS 26 with new functionalities. Visual intelligence can examine whatever is displayed on your screen, allowing you to add events from a flyer into Calendar, translate text, or inquire with ChatGPT about images and information without exiting the app.

Live Translation operates across Messages, FaceTime, and Phone, offering on-device translated captions and even real-time translated audio during calls.

Shortcuts gain intelligent actions, such as summarizing documents, generating images with Image Playground, or leveraging Apple Intelligence models directly for more advanced automation.

Genmoji, a feature driven by generative AI, lets you blend emoji with text descriptions or personalize characters inspired by individuals in your Photos library. Image Playground provides similar creative control for producing visuals and integrates seamlessly with Messages.

## Core app upgrades

Several commonly used apps receive major updates in iOS 26. The Phone app presents a cohesive layout that combines Favorites, Recents, and Voicemail, while Call Screening assists in filtering unknown numbers and Hold Assist helps maintain your position in line when contacting businesses.

Messages adds dynamic backgrounds for conversations, live polls, and enhanced spam filtering. Group chats now show typing indicators for each participant and include Apple Cash for swift payments.

The Photos app divides Library and Collections into separate views, incorporating new customization options and immersive spatial photo effects. Camera features a simplified layout, quick-access controls, and even remote shutter support with AirPods.

Maps learns your preferred routes and remembers frequently visited places for quick access. Apple Music introduces AutoMix transitions, Lyrics Translation, and pinned favorites.

Wallet expands to include TSA-ready Digital IDs, in-store installment payments, and more comprehensive order tracking powered by Apple Intelligence.

Gaming introduces an all-new Apple Games app that centralizes your library, achievements, challenges, and Apple Arcade content. A Game Overlay enables tweaking settings or chatting without exiting a game, and MetalFX Frame Interpolation provides smoother frame rates.

## Everyday improvements

In addition to design and apps, iOS 26 encompasses a variety of smaller yet beneficial features. Reminders can propose tasks from text or web pages and automatically categorize them.

Accessibility sees the introduction of a system-wide Reader mode, new Braille tools, and enhanced motion cues. Safety features include expanded Communication Safety in FaceTime and Shared Albums, and parents can now set up child accounts more easily.

Other updates feature the capability to record high-quality audio with AirPods, Markdown support in Notes, improved alarms in Clock, estimated charging times in Battery, Focus-based SIM silencing for dual SIM users, and enhanced eSIM management while traveling.

Podcasts introduce Enhance Dialogue and adaptable playback speeds, while Journal offers multiple journals, inline images, and a map view.

## How to update

Updating is straightforward. On iPhone, navigate to Settings > General > Software Update and follow the instructions. Ensure your device is backed up to iCloud or a Mac before starting. The download is free, although installation time may vary based on your model and storage.

iOS 26 is compatible with iPhone 12 and later, including all iPhone 13, 14, 15, 16, and 17 models, plus iPhone Air and iPhone SE (2nd generation and later). Apple Intelligence features require iPhone 16/17/Air models or iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max.

Catch up on all our iOS 26 coverage since June

macOS Tahoe 26 Launched: Essential Features to Try Out First

# macOS Tahoe 26: An In-Depth Examination of New Features

Although iOS has received considerable focus during the beta period since WWDC25, macOS Tahoe 26 brings a multitude of exciting features that are now being released worldwide. Here’s a thorough overview of what’s included in this update.

## Liquid Glass

The visual aspect of macOS Tahoe 26 has been redesigned with a concept known as Liquid Glass. While the general appearance is updated, it doesn’t differ as dramatically as iOS 26. Users will see that the Liquid Glass motif is prominently integrated into the Dock, app icons, the fresh Control Center, the App Switcher, and Desktop widgets, while the remainder of the system adopts a more subdued, frosted look.

One of the most sought-after features among macOS users is the option to place widgets directly on the desktop, freeing them from the limitations of the Notification Center. These desktop widgets, which also feature the Liquid Glass style, can be added from both built-in and third-party applications, significantly improving workflow efficiency by offering quick access to easy-to-read information.

## Spotlight

Spotlight has received major updates, transforming it into an essential tool for both casual users and power users alike. The revamped Spotlight now boasts a clipboard history tab, accessible with Cmd + 4, along with dedicated tabs for Applications (Cmd + 1), Files (Cmd + 2), and Actions (Cmd + 3).

The addition of Quick Keys within the Actions tab allows users to craft shortcut snippets for commonly used commands and features, simplifying tasks like composing messages and executing shortcuts across different applications. This capability has rapidly gained popularity among users, delivering a plethora of functionalities just a Cmd + Space away.

## Automation

The eagerly awaited Automation feature is now functional in macOS Tahoe 26, allowing users to establish shortcuts that operate automatically based on defined triggers, such as the time of day or actions like saving files or connecting to external devices. This feature offers an effective means to streamline workflows, and with deeper integration from Shortcuts and Spotlight, users are motivated to delve into automation like never before.

## Control Center

macOS Tahoe 26 introduces a Control Center feature that can be accessed from the menu bar. Similar to its iOS version, users can customize which controls are displayed, their arrangement, and the amount of space occupied by each control. Specific controls, including the new Vehicle Cues feature and options from third-party applications, can also be added directly to the menu bar.

## Continuity

Continuity features have been broadened, permitting users to view Live Activities from their iPhone straight in the macOS menu bar. This integration enables users to interact with their iPhone without needing to physically handle the device, enhancing the seamless experience across Apple products.

## New Apps

A number of new applications are launching with macOS Tahoe 26:

– **Phone**: This new native application allows users to manage calls more efficiently, incorporating features like Call Screening and Hold Assist from iOS 26.

– **Journal**: Once exclusive to iOS, the Journal app is now accessible on macOS, providing improved typing comfort and features like map view and management of multiple journals.

– **Apple Games**: This new gaming platform consolidates Apple’s gaming offerings, featuring editorial content and centralized cloud saves, enabling gamers to continue their adventures across devices effortlessly.

## Compatibility

macOS Tahoe 26 is compatible with the following devices:

– MacBook Air with Apple silicon (2020 and later)
– MacBook Pro with Apple silicon (2020 and later)
– MacBook Pro (16‑inch, 2019)
– MacBook Pro (13‑inch, 2020, Four Thunderbolt 3 ports)
– iMac (2020 and later)
– Mac mini (2020 and later)
– Mac Studio (2022 and later)
– Mac Pro (2019 and later)

## Conclusion

While macOS Tahoe 26 may not have been the focal point of the beta period, it provides a host of quality-of-life enhancements throughout the system. From improved Spotlight capabilities to the debut of desktop widgets and automation features, this update addresses a broad spectrum of user requirements and workflows.

Nonetheless, users should remain aware of some bugs noted during the beta testing stage, including problems with Spaces and Dock responsiveness. Depending on individual reliance on these features, it may be wise to hold off on upgrading until subsequent updates are released.

In summary, macOS Tahoe 26 marks a substantial leap forward, presenting a multitude of new features that many users will find essential.

Overview of the New Apple Intelligence Features Unveiled in Today’s Updates

# Apple Intelligence Updates: Major Features Revealed

While today is not the day Apple will unveil a redesigned, LLM-powered Siri, the latest updates introduce several exciting enhancements to the Apple Intelligence suite. Here are some notable points.

During WWDC25, Apple aimed to showcase the Apple Intelligence features it had previously launched, addressing its position behind competitors in AI. Subsequently, it introduced fresh Apple Intelligence features, highlighting only those it was confident could be delivered during the initial beta rollout or shortly thereafter.

Here are some of the most impressive Apple Intelligence functionalities you can start utilizing immediately by updating your Apple Intelligence-compatible devices today.

## Foundation Models Framework

This represents the most significant modification in today’s updates. Now, applications can connect directly with Apple’s on-device model, enabling them to provide AI features without depending on external APIs or the internet.

For users, this translates to more private AI functionalities, as prompts remain on the device. For developers, it offers a quicker and more efficient experience, taking advantage of the same on-device capabilities Apple employs for its own AI solutions. Currently, developers do not have access to Apple’s cloud-based model; this is restricted to on-device use only. Nevertheless, the capacity for any developer to implement AI features at no additional cost should inspire fascinating features and applications.

## Shortcuts and Automations

Shortcuts and automation are central to today’s updates, especially on macOS Tahoe 26.

You can now incorporate Apple Intelligence into your shortcuts, which allows you to include Writing Tools, Image Playground, and even Apple’s own models or ChatGPT as components in your workflow to boost productivity. If automation is new to you, it might feel daunting, but using AI-driven automation could revolutionize your workflow.

## Live Translation

The standout feature is Live Translation with AirPods, which automatically interprets spoken language during conversations. However, Live Translation is also available across Messages, Phone, and FaceTime.

In Messages, this feature automatically translates both incoming and outgoing text messages, while during a FaceTime call, it displays live translated captions. For phone calls, you will hear spoken translations, akin to the Live Translation feature with AirPods.

### Compatibility Details
– **Live Translation with AirPods**: Compatible with AirPods 4 featuring Active Noise Cancellation or AirPods Pro 2 and later, supporting English (U.S., UK), French (France), German, Portuguese (Brazil), and Spanish (Spain).
– **Live Translation in Messages**: Accessible in Chinese (Simplified), English (UK, U.S.), French (France), German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese (Brazil), and Spanish (Spain) on supported devices.
– **Live Translation in Phone and FaceTime**: Available for one-on-one calls in English (UK, U.S.), French (France), German, Portuguese (Brazil), and Spanish (Spain).

Moreover, Apple Intelligence now offers voicemail summaries that appear alongside missed calls.

## Visual Intelligence

Apple has broadened its visual search capabilities beyond the camera, now extending to content shown on the screen.

When capturing a screenshot, iOS identifies the content, enabling you to highlight specific areas, search for similar images, or even pose questions to ChatGPT regarding what is shown in the screenshot. Visual Intelligence also extracts date, time, and location data from screenshots, proactively suggesting actions like adding events to the calendar, assuming the image is in English.

## Genmoji and Image Playground

You can now merge two distinct emojis (and optionally, a text description) to create a new Genmoji. Personal attributes like hairstyle and facial hair for Genmoji can also be adjusted based on individuals from your Photos library.

In Image Playground, the most noteworthy update is the integration of OpenAI’s image generator, allowing users to choose from predefined styles or enter a text prompt to create images. You can also utilize Image Playground to craft Messages Backgrounds and Genmoji without needing to exit the app.

## Conclusion

Apple is evidently encountering hurdles in improving Siri and its AI capabilities. However, the recent enhancements to its Apple Intelligence offerings are well-considered and executed, likely enhancing user productivity. The new features are definitely worth exploring, even for those who may have overlooked them in the past.

For more comprehensive coverage of today’s Apple OS releases, visit 9to5Mac.

Apple explores the possible effects of iOS 26 on the battery longevity of the iPhone.

# iOS 26: Comprehending Its Effects on Battery Life and Performance

iOS 26 is now accessible for iPhone users, and Apple has launched a new webpage to underline the significance of software updates, along with their possible repercussions on battery life and device performance.

## Short-term Effects on Battery and Performance

Apple has recently released a support document outlining the intricacies of software updates, highlighting the difference between major releases (e.g., 26.0) and minor updates (e.g., 26.1 or 26.1.1). A key emphasis of this document is the section named “Performance and battery impact,” which offers useful insights for users.

As per Apple, after completing a major update, users might notice a temporary reduction in battery life and a rise in thermal activity. This is a standard situation, as the device carries out background tasks such as indexing data, fetching new assets, and updating applications.

### Main Points from Apple’s Clarification

1. **Short-lived Pressure**: After a major software update, it is typical for the iPhone’s battery to deplete more rapidly and for the device to become temporarily warmer.

2. **Possible Long-term Consequences**: There may be an enduring effect on performance and battery life if new features require more resources from the device.

This information corroborates the experiences of numerous iPhone users who have faced comparable issues with prior updates.

## Anticipations After Installing iOS 26

The main message for users is that after installing iOS 26, there will be an initial period of heightened background processing that may burden the device. Generally, this should sort itself out within a few days. Nevertheless, sustained battery impact could occur if users extensively utilize new features that are resource-demanding.

Apple stresses that the degree of this impact can differ depending on individual usage habits.

In summary, while the short-term effects of iOS 26 on battery life and performance are anticipated, users should remain mindful of the possibilities for longer-term effects based on their usage of the new features. Grasping these dynamics can assist users in managing their expectations and enhancing their iPhone experience following the update.

visionOS 26 Debuts Today: Fresh Features for Apple Vision Pro

Apple has launched visionOS 26, the newest version of its spatial operating system tailored for the Apple Vision Pro. While this release does not bring a sweeping redesign like certain earlier versions, it does introduce several notable improvements that users will appreciate.

A key feature of visionOS 26 is the addition of spatial widgets. Users can now affix a variety of widgets, including photos, weather updates, and calendar entries, directly within their surroundings. These widgets blend effortlessly into the user’s environment and are retained by the Vision Pro, ensuring a customized experience even when users exit the area.

Developers are anticipated to design their own applications featuring spatial widgets, broadening the capabilities beyond just system apps.

Another significant enhancement is the updated personas. The latest personas in visionOS 26 are more articulate and vivid, providing a more captivating visual representation during user interactions.

The update also promotes shared experiences among Vision Pro owners. Whether viewing a 3D film, engaging in a spatial game, or collaborating on a supported application, users can now partake in these activities together, with their personas visible in the shared experience—previously a feature limited to FaceTime.

Moreover, visionOS 26 introduces spatial scenes, which leverage a new generative AI algorithm to improve the depth and immersion of images. This capability extends beyond images, enabling users to experience spatial scenes in Safari, the Spatial Gallery app, and various third-party applications, like Zillow, where users can explore lifelike scenes of properties.

Other significant features in visionOS 26 encompass support for PS VR2 controllers for gaming, Logitech Muse support for spatial drawing, a fresh Jupiter environment, native playback for 180 and 360-degree content, a revamped control center, phone call relay from iPhone, folders in home view, and additional languages for Apple Intelligence.

For those thinking about acquiring an Apple Vision Pro, it might be prudent to hold off, as there are rumors of an upcoming version featuring an M4 or M5 chip potentially debuting in October, possibly available in a new Space Black color option.