Apple’s iOS 26 public beta is now available, bringing sweeping cosmetic and functional changes:
- The controversial “Liquid Glass” UI—initially ultra-translucent—has been softened after criticism, adopting a more matte frost effect for better legibility. It’s slated to evolve further before official launch in September 2025 Cybernews
- Messaging gets smarter with chat backgrounds, polls, typing indicators, while the Phone app introduces Hold Assist (auto-waits on hold) and call screening.
- Apple Intelligence powers on-device Live Translation, Visual Intelligence, Genmoji emoji fusion, and enhanced Shortcuts.
- A new consolidated Games app centralizes Apple Arcade, multiplayer, and updates The Verge.
These changes reflect Apple’s push toward AI-powered, visually refined, and more flexible UX.
