Apple Releases iOS 26, iPadOS 26, watchOS 26, and macOS 26 Taohe

[harlan4096]

Apple has just released iOS 26 and the rest of its ’26 OS releases for all of its software platforms. The main visible change is a new “Liquid Glass” language that will spread across iOS 26, iPadOS 26, watchOS 26, macOS 26 Tahoe, tvOS 26, and visionOS 26, but it will take some time for third-party apps to embrace it as well (or not).

We’ve already covered the main changes included in the major software updates, so you can check our previous post for all details. The biggest change this year is probably for iPad users, with iPadOS 26 finally bringing a multitasking interface and other productivity features that power users have been asking for years. The iPad now works much better as a laptop replacement, even though the lack of true desktop-class web browsers remains a frustration point.

For iPhone users, the main changes coming with iOS 26 include a redesigned Phone app that merges Favorites, Recents, and Voicemail. Call Screening can also screen calls from unknown numbers, while Hold Assist can hold on the line until a live agent is available.

There’s also Live Translation support in Messages, FaceTime, phone calls, and with select AirPods. The Visual Intelligence feature on iPhones that support it is also now capable of answering questions about what’s on the screen and taking action.

For Mac users, macOS 26 is revamping the Spotlight app with intelligent features. Users will be able to perform actions directly from the app, including sending an email, creating a note, or playing a podcast. The Shortcuts app is also adding support for intelligent actions along with the ability to tap directly into Apple Intelligence models to automate complex tasks. The Phone app and Live Activities from iPhones are also coming to macOS 26, except in the EU.

With watchOS 26, Apple Watch users are getting a redesigned watch face gallery, Apple’s Notes app, and a new one-handed wrist flick gesture to dismiss notifications and calls. Select Apple Watch models are also getting a new sleep score feature, an AI-powered Workbout Buddy, and hypertension notifications.

If you don’t want to upgrade to Apple’s annual releases yet, the company also released iOS 18.7, iPadOS 18.7, and macOS 15.7 today. These are just security updates with no new features.

Apple Releases iOS 26, iPadOS 26, watchOS 26, and macOS 26 Taohe