Apple’s iOS 26, released globally on September 15, 2025, marks a major leap in iPhone software, blending a new visual identity with deeper AI-driven intelligence.
From the striking Liquid Glass design to real-time call screening and live translations, the update promises a more fluid, intuitive, and creative iPhone experience. But Apple has also issued a rare note of caution: users may notice temporary battery drain as the system adapts to the overhaul.
The highlight of iOS 26 is the new Liquid Glass design, which renders icons and interfaces with a rippling, translucent effect. Apple says this makes apps feel more immersive while offering adaptive layouts in Safari and customizable lock screens with 3D wallpapers.
Early user feedback on X (formerly Twitter) has praised the update’s fluidity, though some warn of an adjustment period with the glassy UI.
Apple intelligence expands with smarter features
The update integrates enhanced Apple Intelligence across apps. Users can now access real-time call screening that transcribes incoming calls, live translations across apps, and smarter Siri responses that summarize emails or suggest calendar events.
Creative tools like Genmoji and Image Playground let users generate custom emojis and visuals from prompts, offering new possibilities for presentations and social content.
The Messages app gains polls, custom chat backgrounds, and improved spam filters, while the Phone app introduces Hold Assist, which plays ambient sounds for callers waiting on hold.
Gaming enthusiasts also get a dedicated Games app, streamlining access to titles, previews, and recommendations. CarPlay receives a refresh with safer voice-activated controls and better navigation integration.
Apple’s battery life warning
In its support documentation, Apple acknowledged that users may see temporary battery and performance impacts after updating.
“Immediately after completing an update, particularly a major release, you might notice a temporary impact on battery life and thermal performance. This is normal,” Apple explained, noting that background processes like indexing data and updating apps take time.
The company stressed that performance typically stabilizes within a few days, though individual experiences may vary depending on iPhone model and usage habits. iOS 26 is compatible with iPhone 12 models and newer, including the iPhone SE 2.
Compatibility and developer opportunities
Developers gain access to new APIs for Liquid Glass, enabling more immersive app designs. Businesses, meanwhile, benefit from enhanced privacy tools, including encrypted backups and granular app permissions.
Analysts suggest these features could make iOS 26 a benchmark for mobile OS design and productivity, positioning Apple ahead of rivals like Google in the AI race.
