We’ve all seen Liquid Glass. Here are 10 iOS 26 features that are even better

Certainly, one of the main strengths of iOS 26, which was announced earlier this month at WWDC 2025, is the new liquid glass interface. But as we have pointed out here, the update is also delivered with many other new features – such as many new APIs which open many possibilities for application developers.

Although Liquid Glass is the most notable change for all those who try the public beta version iOS 26, it is not the only one. With smarter battery tools, AirPods improvements and Apple music, and more capacities powered by Apple Intelligence, the update brings improvements to everyone. So, even if you are not a fan of the new liquid glass interface or if you are wondering what iOS 26 has to offer, we are there to show you that the update is delivered with many other improvements that will change the way you use your iPhone.

Ringing

A small but important change for iPhone users in iOS 26 is the possibility of defining any ringtone you want. Although iOS is delivered with a lot of ringtones, the choice of a personalized iPhone ringtone has never been an easy process. You had to buy a ringtone in iTunes or import one from a Mac or a PC.

Users also have the possibility of creating their own ringtone using Garageband for iOS, which requires the download of an application of 2 GB and many steps.

Fortunately, with iOS 26, these days are over. The update allows users to define any audio file as an iPhone ringtone. All you have to do is find a compatible audio file (such as MP3 or M4A), press the Share button and search for Ring option. It’s as simple as that.

Safety codes

IOS users have a very practical functionality which can automatically automatically automatically two factory authentication codes (2FA) from messages and mail. Instead of having to operate these applications manually to obtain the code, the system automatically completes the code for you.

With iOS 26, this feature is still improving. Indeed, Apple extends the automatic detection and the automatic 2FA codes to third -party applications. Thus, for example, if you receive a code via WhatsApp or Gmail, the iOS keyboard will also display the code.

Autofill only worked on the Mac, but with iOS 26 and MacOS 26, it also works in third -party browsers like Chrome.

Adaptive power

IOS is already delivered with many features which help to extend the lifespan of the iPhone battery, such as low power mode. However, iOS 26 goes further with an adaptive power.

Essentially, this new mode uses algorithms to better understand how you use your iPhone and make small performance settings to make the battery last longer. For example, when this mode is on, the iPhone can slightly reduce performance or brightness screen when you do not perform intensive tasks.

For comparison, low -power mode makes similar things, but in a more aggressive way; It deactivates the recovery of background emails, automatic downloads, limits the screen refresh rate, simplifies visual effects, etc. Adaptive power is a mode for those who want to optimize the battery without sacrificing the global experience.

However, as Adaptive Power rests on Apple Intelligence, it is only available for the iPhone 15 Pro and later.

Charging time estimates

Apple also allowed users to easily check the time it takes to finish the load of their iPhone. On the locking screen, the system displays the time estimated to reach an 80% battery depending on the charger used. It can also alert users that the load will take more time when using a 5W adapter or an old Qi charger.

When the battery level is more than 80%, users can check the time estimated to complete the recharge under the battery.

Automatic

Apple Music subscribers will also get a fascinating new feature with iOS 26. If you are like me and you will have specific reading lists for the holidays, you will certainly like Automix. The functionality essentially uses AI to mix the transitions from one song to another, going beyond the traditional transverse effect.

Apple

It’s almost like having a DJ mixes songs in your reading lists. The functionality is able to choose the best time for transitions and even adjust the beats of the songs. However, this only works with certain genres.

Message filters

iOS 26 makes screening tools in the messages even better. Your messages are now automatically classified as messages, unknown, spam seiders and recently deleted. In supported regions, you will also see filters for transactions and promotions.

Apple

In other words, the Message application will only show you the messages that matter to people you know, without bothering yourself with potential spam and messages from people you don’t know. There is also a new filter to consult only unrelated messages, which is completely practical.

Audio recording with AirPods

Airpod owners will also have new tips with iOS 26. Apple wireless headphones can not only control the iPhone camera, but for the first time, they can also be used as high definition microphones.

Apple

For creators, this means that they can use their airpods to shoot a video when they do not have a lavalier microphone around. It should be noted that this feature is limited to AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods 4, both equipped with the H2 chip.

Substantive activities

A new API in iOS 26 (and iPados 26) allows developers to implement more background activities in their applications, especially when it comes to finishing a task that takes more time.

For example, users can now start exporting a video in Final Cut Pro (on iPad) and switching to another application while export continues. Applications can also use this API to continue downloading files in the background.

Of course, as this feature requires the adoption of a new API, it will only work when developers up to date their applications to iOS / iPados 26 later this year.

Live translation

Communication with people in other languages becomes much easier with iOS 26. As the name suggests, the live translation can translate a telephone, FaceTime or even a real -time cat.

When it comes to a facetime video call, you can see the legends translated on the screen. For telephone calls, iOS 26 transcribes not only the call in your language, but you also read it aloud.

Apple

Keep in mind that this feature is only available for the iPhone 15 Pro and later, because it is based on Apple Intelligence.

Visual intelligence everywhere

Apple Intelligence iPhone models have a functionality called Visual Intelligence, which allows users to point the camera on objects or scenes to find out more about them.

In iOS 26, Apple extends visual intelligence so that it now works everywhere, including for things on the screen of your iPhone. You can take a screenshot and surround what you want to look for with Apple Intelligence.

For example, this will allow you to easily find where to buy something you saw on Instagram. Again, as it is part of Apple Intelligence, functionality requires an iPhone 15 pro or subsequent.