Apple Launches iOS 26 Public Beta with Stunning “Liquid Glass” Design and AI Enhancements
Apple has officially released the first public beta of iOS 26, offering early adopters a glimpse of the next big evolution in its mobile operating system. The new update introduces a major visual overhaul with the innovative “Liquid Glass” user interface, bringing a more transparent, glass-like aesthetic to key elements of the iPhone and iPad experience.
The “Liquid Glass” design transforms user interface elements like buttons, screens, and navigation controls, providing a sleek, futuristic look that enhances the overall user experience. This visual update, which Apple describes as the most significant since iOS 7, integrates seamlessly across various apps, including Phone, Camera, Safari, Music, and more.
Key Features of iOS 26 Public Beta
Along with the visual update, iOS 26 includes several new features designed to enhance functionality and usability:
- 3D Lock Screen and Dynamic Clock: The Lock Screen has been revamped with a 3D photo effect and a dynamic clock for a more engaging display.
- AI-Powered Features: iOS 26 introduces a live translation feature for real-time conversations, AI-powered shortcuts, and updates to Visual Intelligence for improved image search capabilities.
- Gaming App: A new dedicated gaming app is introduced, providing a one-stop destination for playing and discovering games on iPhone.
- Phone App Updates: The Phone app now includes a Call Screening feature, where unknown callers must state their name and reason for calling before being answered. It also adds a Hold Assist feature that notifies users when the hold music ends, signaling they can speak to a live agent.
Enhanced Features for iPadOS, macOS, and More
In addition to the iPhone-focused updates, Apple’s iPadOS 26 and macOS 26 also adopt the “Liquid Glass” design. iPadOS introduces a more Mac-like experience with the addition of the Preview app for PDF annotations and a new windowing system for multitasking. On macOS, Spotlight is enhanced with AI capabilities to predict user searches and suggest actions based on frequent tasks.
New Features in watchOS and tvOS
Apple’s watchOS 26 introduces a helpful Workout Buddy feature powered by Apple Intelligence, which provides motivational feedback during workouts. It also revamps the Workout app and adds Autoplay Media, automatically playing music, podcasts, or audiobooks during exercise.
In tvOS, users can now seamlessly switch profiles when the Apple TV wakes from sleep, improving the viewing experience. A new microphone feature in Apple Music allows iPhones to be used for sing-alongs, complete with on-screen lyrics.
What’s Next for iOS 26?
The iOS 26 public beta sets the stage for a host of exciting new features in the final release, expected later this fall. With a revamped user interface and powerful AI features, Apple continues to innovate and improve the iPhone and iPad experience.
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