In-depth explanation of compatible models and new features of "iOS 26"
On June 10, 2025 (Japan time), Apple officially announced its next-generation mobile OS, iOS 26, at WWDC25.
iPadOS 26 and macOS Tahoe 26 were also announced, and the unification of OS numbering to the last two digits of the year has made inter-product collaboration and information organization more intuitive.
Ahead of the official release in the fall, a Public Beta for general users has also begun distribution. This article provides a comprehensive explanation of iOS 26's appeal and caveats, based on both the official announcement and beta version review.
Sources & Citations
Overview of iOS 26
iOS 26 is not just about adding features; it includes a major UI redesign, the first since iOS 7 in 2013.
In particular, the new "Liquid Glass" design adopts a frosted glass-like transparency and three-dimensionality throughout, achieving a significant visual evolution.
Furthermore, enhancements to Apple Intelligence (generative AI functions), reorganization of standard app UIs, and the addition of new standard apps have been incorporated throughout, improving everyday usability.
Key Update Points (Overview + Explanation)
New Design "Liquid Glass"
A UI that resembles layered translucent glass sheets is consistently applied, from the home screen to in-app buttons and dialogs. Background transparency not only makes wallpapers and content stand out but also reduces the oppressive feel of the UI itself.
While it may appear plain in still images, the background refracts when scrolling or during animations, making a significant difference when experienced on a device.
Enhanced Apple Intelligence Features
Visual intelligence now supports screen content, allowing users to directly ask AI questions from screenshots and app screens. Transferring to ChatGPT or Google Image Search is now possible with a single tap. This significantly improves the efficiency of information retrieval and summarization tasks.
Improved Practicality with UI Compactness
The UI of many standard apps, including Safari, Mail, and Notes, has been reorganized and shrunk, increasing the display area. This improves usability, especially on smaller iPhones, by increasing the amount of content displayed.
Addition of New Standard Apps
The "Preview" app allows viewing and annotation of PDFs and images. This is a port of a macOS app to iOS. The "Game" app integrates Game Center functionality with App Store game information, making it easier to find popular titles and recommendations.
Expected Release: Mid to Late September 2025
Based on past iOS release dates, this period is highly probable. Developer Beta and Public Beta are already available.
Compatible Devices: iPhone 11 and Later
Advanced AI features are limited to high-end models, but UI redesigns and basic app improvements can be experienced on a wide range of devices.
List of Compatible Devices
iOS 26 is available on the following iPhones:
- iPhone 16 / 16 Plus / 16 Pro / 16 Pro Max / 16e
- iPhone 15 / 15 Plus / 15 Pro / 15 Pro Max
- iPhone 14 / 14 Plus / 14 Pro / 14 Pro Max
- iPhone SE (3rd generation)
- iPhone 13 / 13 mini / 13 Pro / 13 Pro Max
- iPhone 12 / 12 mini / 12 Pro / 12 Pro Max
- iPhone SE (2nd generation)
- iPhone 11 / 11 Pro / 11 Pro Max
※Apple Intelligence is supported on iPhone 15 Pro / 15 Pro Max / 16 series and later.
※iPhone XR, XS, and XS Max are not eligible for update.
Release Schedule
- Official Version Forecast: Mid to Late September 2025. Almost certain based on release dates over the past five years.
- Developer Beta: Available immediately after announcement.
- Public Beta: Starting July 2025. Anyone can participate, but due to potential instability and compatibility issues, a secondary device is recommended.
Precautions for Trying the Public Beta
As a beta version in development, bugs, display issues, and app incompatibilities may still exist.
The UI is also highly likely to change before the official release, with the transparency and animation speed of Liquid Glass being particularly subject to adjustment.
Furthermore, once iOS 26 Beta is installed, it is not possible to revert to iOS 18 through normal means, and users must wait for the official release. It is advisable to avoid installing it on your primary device.
Detailed UI Redesign Review
Home Screen
Icons and buttons have gained a three-dimensional and chamfered appearance, and background transparency and gradients add a touch of luxury. "Clear" has been added to color adjustments, allowing for layouts that leverage wallpapers.
Safari
- Bottom UI reduced from two lines to one and made transparent.
- Web pages can now be displayed from the top to the bottom edge of the screen.
- Swipe to switch tabs, long-press for sharing and tab operations.
- Smaller iPhones benefit most, maximizing screen utilization.
Mail・Notes
Buttons are now transparent, improving the readability of text and lists. The home bar also automatically hides after a short period, increasing focus during work.
New Standard Apps
Preview
Allows viewing of PDF and image files, with pen tools for annotation. Minor revisions of business documents, signing contracts, and other tasks can be handled without external apps.
Games
Manage owned games, view popular rankings, and use friend features. Arcade titles and recommended games can also be checked in one place.
Enhanced Features
Screenshot + AI Integration
Directly send to ChatGPT for questions or Google Image Search after capturing. Schedule events from text within images, advancing task automation.
Voice Input Device Selection
Specify the device to use when multiple microphones are connected. Prevents unintended microphone selection during recording.
Communication Features
- Phone: Screening function to automatically answer calls from unregistered numbers, and hold assist.
- Messages: Isolation of unknown senders, live translation, group polling, and more added.
Current State of Apple Intelligence
Currently, the focus is on functional improvements, with major updates postponed. On-screen recognition for Siri and personal context support are under development.
Summary
iOS 26 is an update that enhances daily operation by revamping the UI and making minor functional improvements. The official release is scheduled for mid to late September 2025. If you want to try out the latest features, the Public Beta is an option, but be aware of the risks involved.
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