iOS 26 and macOS 26 Updates: What We Know from WWDC 2025
Apple unveiled a sweeping range of new features and design changes for iOS 26 and macOS 26 during WWDC 2025. With iOS 26 and macOS 26, everything we know so far from WWDC 2025 suggests improvements across design, intelligence, and cross-platform integration, these updates mark a major shift for iPhone and Mac users.
From Apple Intelligence to a brand-new Liquid Glass look, here’s a breakdown of everything announced so far.
iOS 26 and macOS 26 Get a Liquid Glass Makeover
One of the most noticeable changes in iOS 26 and macOS 26 is the new Liquid Glass design. This UI revamp brings soft gradients, depth effects and responsive transparency throughout system apps and menus.
This refresh isn’t just visual—it also supports accessibility improvements like better contrast options and transparency controls.
Apple Intelligence in iOS 26 and macOS 26
The centrepiece of WWDC 2025 is Apple Intelligence—a privacy-first, on-device AI system integrated directly into iOS 26 and macOS 26. Rather than a chatbot, Apple Intelligence enhances your daily experience.
Key features include:
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Live Call Translation in Phone, FaceTime and Messages
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Genmoji and Image Playground for personalised AI graphics
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Smart Reply, Summarise and Rewrite in Mail and Notes
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Image Understanding to scan what’s on screen and take context-aware actions
For more detail, visit Apple’s Apple Intelligence overview.
New iOS 26 Features
iOS 26 builds on the foundation of iOS 25 with added intelligence, better communication tools, and greater control over your device.
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Messages: New polls, animated reactions, and group typing indicators
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Phone: Enhanced voicemail and real-time transcription
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Apple Music: Crossfade, AutoMix, and synced lyrics
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Maps: New city layouts, smarter routing and saved locations
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CarPlay Ultra: Control climate, seats and media directly from your screen
macOS 26 “Tahoe”: Desktop Power Reimagined
macOS 26, nicknamed Tahoe, introduces the same visual and intelligence upgrades as iOS 26, with Mac-specific tools designed for productivity.
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Redesigned Spotlight: Now supports Shortcuts and smart controls
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New Phone app: Make and take calls directly from your Mac
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Live Activities and Widgets: Sync across Mac and iPhone
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Journal and Notes apps: New audio tools and Markdown export
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Accessibility: Improved Magnifier and voice navigation options
Compatibility and Release Schedule
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iOS 26: Compatible with iPhone 11 and newer
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macOS 26: Supports Apple Silicon Macs; Intel Mac support is winding down
The developer beta is available now, with a public beta in July 2025 and full release expected in September 2025.
Final Thoughts on iOS 26 and macOS 26
The updates in iOS 26 and macOS 26 focus on intelligence, beauty and synergy. With Liquid Glass styling, smarter apps, and Apple Intelligence running on-device, Apple is preparing its platforms for a new era.
Want to get your device ready? Read our guide on preparing for the iOS 26 beta
Looking for iPhone development? Contact us today for a free quote and consultation