Apple Unveils iOS 26, Liquid Glass Design at WWDC 2025

Post by : Bianca Suleiman

Photo: AP

Apple started its big Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) on Monday with a 90-minute show. Many people were excited because Apple had promised new features, especially with artificial intelligence (AI). But this year, Apple focused more on improving how its devices look and work, not just on AI.

A Fresh New Look: Liquid Glass

Apple gave all its devices a new style called “Liquid Glass.” This design makes screens look lighter and more see-through, almost like real glass. It’s a big change—the first major redesign since 2013. Apple says this new look is getting ready for the special 20-year iPhone in 2027.

New Way to Name Software

Apple will now use years instead of version numbers for its software. So, you’ll see names like iOS 26, iPadOS 26, macOS 26, watchOS 26, tvOS 26, and visionOS 26.

What’s New in iOS 26 (iPhone)

• New Icons and Menus: Icons are updated, and you can even make them fully clear. Menus and bars look more like those on Apple’s Vision Pro headset.

• Games App: You can now see what games your friends play, start challenges, and find new games easily.

• Phone App: Recent calls, favorite contacts, and voicemails are all in one place. The phone will tell you when someone returns to your call if you’re on hold.

• Messages: Now you can make polls, set background images, and use Apple Cash in group chats. Spam and unknown messages are better filtered.

• Camera: The app is simpler and quicker for taking photos and videos.

• Lock Screen: The time moves to fit your photo, and you get cool 3D wallpapers that move.

• Safari: The web browser now uses the whole screen.

• Apple Music: You can get help with song lyrics and how to say certain words.

• Apple Wallet: Get live flight updates, airport maps, and luggage tracking. You can also make a digital ID for travel.

• Maps: The app remembers your favorite routes and places you’ve visited.

What’s New in iPadOS 26 (iPad)

• Better Multitasking: You can resize and move app windows anywhere. Apps open just how you left them.

• Menu Bar: A new bar at the top, like on a Mac, helps you find things faster.

• Preview App: Now you can view, edit, and sign PDFs and images.

• Journal App: The diary app from iPhone is now on iPad.

• Files App: Easier to organize files with new views and custom folder colors or icons.

• Default Apps: Choose which app opens certain files.

• Background Tasks: Do big jobs like exporting videos while using other apps.

• Audio Options: Pick different microphones for each app, making it easier to record podcasts.

• Local Capture: Save high-quality backups of audio and video from video calls.

What’s New in watchOS 26 (Apple Watch)

• Liquid Glass Design: The new look is on the watch too.

• Smarter Widgets: Widgets show up based on where you are or what you’re doing.

• Workout Buddy: Get coaching and tips based on your fitness history.

• Wrist Flick: Flick your wrist to dismiss calls or alerts.

• Notes App: Quickly jot down notes on your watch.

• Control Center: Now supports actions from other apps.

What’s New in macOS Tahoe 26 (Mac)

• Liquid Glass Look: The dock, toolbars, and sidebars look fresh and modern.

• Games App: Same features as on iPhone and iPad.

• Customizable Controls: Change how Control Center and Menu Bar look and work.

• Custom Folders: Use colors, emojis, or symbols for folders.

• Phone App: Get the new Phone app and features from iPhone.

• Live Activities: Track things like food orders right from your desktop.

• Spotlight Search: Find anything—files, messages, apps—more easily.

• Journal App: Log daily moments and sync across devices.

What’s New in tvOS 26 (Apple TV)

• Liquid Glass Design: The new style is on TV too.

• User Profiles: All profiles show up when Apple TV wakes up, so everyone can quickly get to their own content.

• Easy Sign-In: Use your Apple Account for streaming apps.

• Karaoke: Use your iPhone as a microphone for Apple Music Sing, and friends can join in or react with emojis.

What’s New in visionOS 26 (Vision Pro headset)

• Widgets: Place helpful widgets like photos or calendars anywhere in your space.

• Better Avatars: Avatars look more real with better faces and more options.

• Shared Experiences: Watch movies, play games, or FaceTime together in the same room.

• Spatial Photos: Photos look more real with new AI technology.

• PlayStation VR2 Support: Use Sony’s VR controllers with full motion tracking.

• Enterprise Tools: Easier for companies to share devices and use new software.

• Unlock iPhone: Unlock your iPhone while wearing Vision Pro.

• Answer Calls: Take iPhone calls right from the headset.

A Few AI Features, But Not the Main Focus

Apple did add some new AI features, like real-time translation for calls and smarter search tools, but most of the big changes this year are about making devices look and work better, not just smarter. Many people hoped for more AI, but Apple is taking its time to get it right.

Apple’s WWDC 2025 brought a big new look and lots of helpful updates for iPhone, iPad, Mac, Watch, TV, and Vision Pro. Most changes make your device easier and more fun to use, even if there aren’t many new AI tricks yet.