Apple’s latest mobile operating system, iOS 26, is now available, and it includes some of the most significant visual and functional changes in years. While the update promises a lot, let’s look at what real users have to say about it so far. The feedback is a mix of enthusiasm for the new design and features and some common frustrations with early software.
The “Liquid Glass”. Look.2
I, for one, am most excited to see this change, and it is the most widely discussed. The “Liquid Glass” design language replaces the previous versions’ flat, static design with a new translucent, layered, and dynamic aesthetic. App icons, menus, and controls now appear “glass-like,” shifting subtly as you move your phone. Early feedback is overwhelmingly positive, with users praising the fresh, modern feel. Many people believe it makes the iPhone feel new again, and the subtle 3D effects on the Lock Screen are a significant change. However, a few users have reported that in beta versions, the translucency made some text difficult to read on busy backgrounds, but Apple appears to have addressed this in the final release.
Key Features and User Feedback
- Apple Intelligence: The integration of AI features is a key selling point for iPhone 15 Pro and later models. Users are especially impressed by Live Translation, which offers real-time translations in Messages, FaceTime, and even phone calls. This is regarded as a game-changer for international communication. The new Visual Intelligence tool allows you to take actions on anything on your screen.
- Messages and Phone: The Messages app has been significantly updated, with new features such as customisable chat backgrounds, polls in group chats, and the ability to see who is typing in real time. The phone app includes Call Screening and Hold Assist, both of which are extremely popular. Users appreciate how the automated call screening feature filters out spam calls by prompting unknown callers to state their name and purpose before the phone even rings.
- Apps and Customisation: The Photos app is getting a more streamlined, user-friendly layout, with separate tabs for “Library” and “Albums,” which is a welcome change for those who were dissatisfied with the previous version. The camera app has also been simplified for easier one-handed operation. For the first time, a dedicated Games app serves as a hub for all of your gaming activity, which is a feature that players are excited about, even though it is still in development.
Overall Impressions
While the new features are a big hit, the Liquid Glass design is the defining element of this update. It’s an ambitious visual revamp that sets the tone for the future of iOS. Many users are enjoying the quality-of-life upgrades, such as the new Adaptive Power Mode for extending battery life and the improved accessibility options. The consensus is that iOS 26 is a strong update that delivers both a refreshing visual experience and genuinely useful new tools, even if some of the more advanced features are exclusive to Apple’s latest software.
This update will be released today, Monday, September 15th, 2025. What are your thoughts so far?
Author: Melissa Williams
Hi, I’m Melissa, a creative writer and ESL teacher with a passion for storytelling. I started writing fiction when I was young, and I eventually discovered that I loved performing, working all over the Costa Blanca as a semi-professional singer. I now write articles that I hope will inspire and engage readers by using my creativity. Whether I'm sharing personal insights or delving into local culture, I try to produce content that is relatable and meaningful. working as a creator of events and features.
Other Articles
How IOS 26 Can Make Life on the Costa Blanca Easier for Expats
Swedish tourists activate speed cameras on three consecutive days
No Comment! Be the first one.