iOS 26 is here and these are the best new features to try first
Apple just released iOS 26 — its biggest iPhone software redesign in years. I’ve been hands-on with it, and there’s a lot to like. Below are the useful (and some hidden) features I think most people should try first.
Do you need to update right away?
Short answer: no. Apple is expected to keep security updates coming to iOS 18 for a while. But if you do update now, you’ll get all of the features below on day one.
The new look: Liquid Glass
iOS 26 introduces a fresh design Apple calls Liquid Glass. It’s more fluid and layered across the system — from the lock screen to menus and apps.
Messages: polls and custom backgrounds
Create a poll:
Open a thread → tap the “+” next to the message box → Polls → enter your options → send. Great for picking dinner spots, movie times, or group plans.
Set a chat background:
Tap the name at the top of a conversation → Backgrounds → choose your look. Note: the other person will see it too (as long as they’re on iOS 26).
Call Screening: see who’s calling and why
Tired of unknown callers? iOS 26 can ask callers to say who they are and why they’re calling before your phone even rings. You’ll see that info on the lock screen and can decide whether to answer.
Turn it on: Settings → Apps → Phone → Ask reason for calling.
Heads-up: It can occasionally filter calls you actually want (e.g., someone new trying to reach you). And, as always, scammers may try to fake info — so stay alert.
Hold Assist: let your iPhone wait on hold
When you call customer service, Hold Assist listens to the hold music for you and pings your phone when a real person picks up. Use the Phone app as usual — you’ll get an on-screen alert when it’s time to jump back in.
Clock: choose your own snooze (1–15 minutes)
The classic 9-minute snooze is no longer the only option.
Clock → Alarm → Snooze Length and pick anywhere from 1 to 15 minutes.
Photos: quick duplicate finder
A simple built-in way to spot duplicates:
Photos → Collections → Utilities → Duplicates
Review the matches and merge or delete to reclaim storage. Personally, I think the free app Clever Cleaner still does a better and more thorough job.
Photos: 3D-style “spatial” pictures (even from old photos)
Many photos can get a subtle depth effect with a tap.
Open a photo → tap the new Spatial icon (top-right) to generate a 3D-style version. It even works with a lot of older pictures. You can also set a 3D photo as your lockscreen wallpaper.
Make your own ringtone from any audio file
No third-party software required.
Open an audio file in Files → Share → Use as Ringtone → set it for calls, texts, or a specific contact.
New Preview app: scan, edit, sign PDFs
Preview is now built in on iPhone. You can scan documents, edit PDFs, add markups, fill forms, and sign with your finger — then share or save instantly.
Not a fan of the flashy look? Tone it down
Again, if Liquid Glass feels too “glassy,” try this:
Settings → Accessibility → Display & Text Size → Reduce Transparency
This makes UI elements less see-through and easier to read.
Final thought
You don’t have to rush the upgrade, but iOS 26 brings a new look and a bunch of genuinely useful tools that make everyday iPhone life better. If you try it, let me know your favorite feature.