iOS 26 debuts with a refreshed "Liquid Glass" aesthetic and enhanced Apple Music software.
Get Ready to Groove with the Refreshed Apple Music in iOS 26
Apple stirs excitement with its latest iOS update, promising transformative changes reminiscent of iOS 7's game-changer back in 2013. Dubbed Liquid Glass, the new design ethos brings a sleek, fluid revamp to iOS, emphasizing transparency and simplicity.
A unified software interface for Apple's entire product lineup is also in the offing, renaming this latest version as iOS 26. Expected to debut this fall alongside the rumored iPhone 17 models — the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Air — iOS 26 promises a softer, adaptive look, characterized by rounded icons and dynamic lock screen elements that intelligently adapt to your wallpaper.
Besides a visual overhaul, expect enhancements across the entire software experience, including a revamped camera app, refreshed Safari web browser, and many upgrades to your favorite apps on your iPhone. Intriguingly, the new features are drawing attention towards the improved Apple Music offerings.
Dynamic album art captivates your lock screen, presenting an immersive, animated look, while lyrics translations bridge the language barrier, making it easier to understand foreign lyrics. The updated Apple Music application also boasts Automix, an innovative feature utilizing AI to create seamless transitions between songs akin to a live DJ. Another smart add-on is the ability to pin your favorite albums, playlists, and artists to the top of the Apple Music app for quicker access to your frequently played music.
While not a groundbreaking transformation for Apple Music aficionados, the new features and fresh appearance still result in a more enjoyable listening experience.
iOS 26 is slated for release alongside the (as-yet unannounced) iPhone 17 series later this year, with support for the iPhone 16e, 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, and 16 Pro Max, iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, and 15 Pro Max, the iPhone 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, and 14 Pro Max, the iPhone 13, 13 Mini, 13 Pro, and 13 Pro Max, iPhone 12, 12 Mini, 12 Pro, and 12 Pro Max, iPhone 11, 11 Pro, and 11 Pro Max models.
Stay in the Know:
Don't miss out on the latest hi-fi, home cinema, and tech news, reviews, buying advice, and deals straight to your inbox. Sign up for our newsletter today!
Learn More:
For a deeper dive into the iPhone 16 Pro experience, check out our in-depth review. Curious about the iPhone 16? Take a look at our thorough analysis. And if you're looking for the best iPhones on the market, check out our expertly curated list.
- If you're an Apple Music enthusiast, be excited for the new features and fresh appearance in the updated Apple Music application within iOS 26, offering a more enjoyable listening experience.
- The unveiling of iOS 26, along with the rumored iPhone 17 models, will introduce a sleek, fluid revamped design, emphasizing transparency and simplicity.
- To keep up with the latest in hi-fi, home cinema, and tech, sign up for our newsletter to receive exclusive news, reviews, buying advice, and deals directly in your inbox.
- In iOS 26, dynamic album art captivates your lock screen, presenting an immersive, animated look, while lyrics translations make it easier to understand foreign lyrics.
- To immerse yourself in the iPhone 16 Pro's experience, check out our comprehensive review, providing a thorough analysis of its features and performance.
- The iPhone 16 Pro boasts an innovative feature called Automix, utilizing AI to create seamless transitions between songs, akin to a live DJ.
- To stay ahead of the curve and make informed decisions, explore our expertly curated list of the best iPhones currently on the market.
