Apple has officially announced iOS 26, the successor to iOS 18. The renamed software update starts with a new design.
iOS 26 follows iOS 18 as Apple shifts its version naming scheme to reflect the year ahead. This puts iOS, iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, visionOS, and tvOS on version 26.
The most obvious update is a change to the design. During the keynote, Apple called back to iOS 7 in 2013 when it last released a major redesign to the iPhone software. iOS 26 replaces the look with what Apple calls Liquid Glass, a more sophisticated look with more depth and realism. The new look is more like the Aqua design language used by the Mac in early versions of Mac OS X rather than the classic skeuomorphic design of the original iPhone software through iOS 6.
In terms of features, iOS 26 introduces updates to CarPlay, a new Games app, more Apple Intelligence tools, and updates to Apple Music, Maps, and Wallet. Hit the press release below to read about all the details.
iOS 26 press release:
Apple elevates the iPhone experience with iOS 26
PRESS RELEASE June 9, 2025
The release delivers a stunning new design, powerful Apple Intelligence capabilities, new ways to stay connected in the Phone and Messages apps, and exciting updates to CarPlay, Apple Music, Maps, and Wallet
CUPERTINO, CALIFORNIA Apple today previewed iOS 26, a major update that brings a beautiful new design, intelligent experiences, and improvements to the apps users rely on every day. The new design provides a more expressive and delightful experience across the system while maintaining the instant familiarity of iOS. Integrated throughout the system and built with privacy from the ground up, Apple Intelligence gets even more capable. Updates to the Phone and Messages apps help users stay connected while eliminating distractions like unwanted calls. iOS 26 also introduces new features in CarPlay, Apple Music, Maps, and Wallet, as well as Apple Games, a brand-new app that gives players a single destination for all their games.
“iOS 26 shines with the gorgeous new design and meaningful improvements to the features users rely on every day, making iPhone even more helpful,” said Craig Federighi, Apple’s senior vice president of Software Engineering. “Experiences are more expressive and personal, from the Lock Screen and Home Screen, to new capabilities across Phone and Messages that help users focus on the connections that matter most. And with powerful new Apple Intelligence capabilities integrated across the system, users can get things done easier than ever.”
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