Apple’s iOS 26 Rolls Out Worldwide with Liquid Glass Redesign and AI Enhancements

September 16, 2025 - Cupertino, California Apple’s long-awaited iOS 26 update, featuring the new “Liquid Glass” interface and advanced Apple Intelligence tools, became available for download globally on September 15, bringing design harmony across iOS, iPadOS, macOS, watchOS and tvOS.

The update delivers a sweeping visual overhaul alongside system-wide AI-powered features, cementing Apple’s strategy to synchronize its operating systems and usher users into a more immersive, intelligent experience.

Nut Graf

By aligning its version number to the coming year and introducing “Liquid Glass,” Apple has achieved its biggest aesthetic upgrade since iOS 7, while Apple Intelligence enhancements-live translation, call screening and contextual Siri actions-demonstrate its focus on productivity and privacy.

Liquid Glass: A Unified Visual Language

Transparent app icons and controls that refract background imagery
Adaptive Lock Screen clock with 3D depth effects
Consistent design elements now span all Apple platforms

AI-Driven Communication Tools

Live Translation converts texts, calls and FaceTime conversations into multiple languages on device
Call Screening answers unknown callers, asks for name and purpose, then transcribes responses before ringing
Siri now takes screen context into account and can generate and act on ChatGPT content with rich formatting

Additional Highlights

New Apple Games app unifies library and Apple Arcade
Enhanced parental controls with contact approvals and content blurring
Customizable message backgrounds and group polls in Messages
Remote camera control and studio-quality recording via AirPods
Wallet adds order tracking and digital ID support for TSA

Most iPhone 11 and later models can update via Settings → General → Software Update. Early feedback praises the fresh design but notes an adjustment period for readability and interaction. Apple expects incremental tweaks in coming beta releases.