Apple’s WWDC 2025 kicks off tomorrow, and while developers may flock for coding tools and AI updates, most iPhone users will be watching closely for what iOS 26 has to offer. The next version of Apple’s mobile operating system appears to focus on meaningful refinements and intelligent enhancements—prioritising utility over flashy gimmicks. Here’s a preview of the 10 biggest features expected to be unveiled:
1. Apple Vision Pro-Inspired Visual Overhaul
iOS 26 may introduce the most significant design refresh since iOS 7. Drawing inspiration from the Vision Pro headset, the UI could feature translucent elements, rounded app icons, and a more immersive aesthetic. Apps like Phone, Safari, and Camera are expected to receive interface tweaks, offering more streamlined and visually elegant experiences.
2. Emoji Fusion
Get ready for emoji mashups. iOS 26 could let users combine two emojis to create custom ones—perfect for adding creativity and humour to your chats. Think: alien + pizza = alien craving pizza. It’s a lighthearted, expressive feature reminiscent of sticker culture.
3. AI-Powered Battery Health Optimization
Apple is infusing AI into practical features. A new smart battery mode may learn your daily phone usage and intelligently manage background processes, extending battery life without compromising performance—no need to toggle low-power mode manually.
4. Real-Time Message Translation
The Messages app could get smarter with AI-driven real-time translation, allowing instant translation of incoming texts in different languages. Whether you’re travelling or chatting with international friends, language barriers could become a thing of the past.
5. New Messages Features: Polls & Chat Personalisation
Group chats may become more interactive with built-in polls and AI-suggested options for easy decision-making. Plus, you might soon be able to customise chat backgrounds, giving each conversation its own vibe—similar to WhatsApp or Instagram DMs.
6. Live Voice Translation—Everywhere
Beyond text, Apple may roll out live voice translation, possibly integrated into phone calls and AirPods. Imagine having a conversation with someone who speaks another language—with real-time translation happening in your ears. Global travel just got easier.
7. Accessibility Upgrades
iOS 26 is set to expand Reader Mode system-wide, making text easier to digest across all apps. Apple also plans to improve App Store labels, offering more clear and consistent information for users with visual or cognitive needs.
8. Seamless Captive Wi-Fi Login
Logging in to public Wi-Fi at airports, hotels, or cafes could become less frustrating. iOS 26 might allow smoother connection to captive networks, reducing repeated pop-ups and login screens—a small tweak with big convenience.
9. AI Health Coach
Apple is turning the Health app into a smart lifestyle companion. A virtual health coach could use your health data to suggest personalised wellness goals, including exercise, sleep, and even diet recommendations. Expect tools to track food intake, like caffeine and carbs, aiding users with fitness or medical needs.
10. More Subtle, Integrated AI Across iOS
Instead of launching its own chatbot, Apple appears to be threading “Apple Intelligence” quietly through the system—enhancing apps like Messages, Health, and Battery without disrupting the user experience. It’s AI, the Apple way—useful, invisible, and private.
As iOS 26 gears up to be revealed, Apple seems focused on delivering smarter, cleaner, and more personalised experiences. It’s not a revolution—it’s refinement. And for many users, that’s exactly what the iPhone needs next.
