iOS 26 Launching Next Week: Here Are the Top 15 Features Leaked So Far

Apple is set to unveil its next major iPhone software update at WWDC 2025 on June 9. While many anticipated the release of iOS 19, reports suggest a rebranding to iOS 26, aligning with a new year-based naming convention across Apple's platforms.

This update is expected to bring significant changes, including a redesigned interface inspired by visionOS, enhanced AI capabilities, and improved system functionalities 

15 Leaked Features Coming in iOS 26

VisionOS-Inspired Redesign
A major visual overhaul is anticipated, featuring translucent backgrounds, floating navigation bars, and dynamic app icons, marking the most significant design change since iOS 7 .

Apple Intelligence 2.0
Building upon last year's introduction, Apple Intelligence is expected to offer smarter Siri interactions, context-aware suggestions, and enhanced voice command capabilities .

AI-Powered Battery Management
A new feature will analyze user habits to optimize battery usage, potentially extending battery life by managing background tasks more efficiently .

Revamped Camera App
The Camera app is set for a redesign with a cleaner interface, streamlined controls, and improved functionality for both photo and video modes .

Enhanced Messages App
Expect a more spacious layout with new features aimed at improving user experience and message management .

Simplified Wi-Fi Login
iOS 26 may introduce a feature to save and sync captive portal credentials across devices via iCloud Keychain, simplifying connections to public Wi-Fi networks .

Customizable Default Voice Assistant
In response to regulatory changes, users might be able to set third-party AI assistants, such as Google Gemini or ChatGPT, as their default voice assistant .

Real-Time Translation with AirPods
AirPods users could benefit from real-time language translation capabilities, enhancing communication in multilingual settings .

Stage Manager for iPhones
Select iPhone models may gain Stage Manager functionality, allowing for improved multitasking and external display support via USB-C connections .

New Gaming Hub
A dedicated gaming app is rumored to centralize games, achievements, leaderboards, and integrate Apple Arcade, enhancing the gaming experience on iOS devices .

RCS Messaging Support
iOS 26 might introduce support for Rich Communication Services (RCS), offering improved messaging features like high-resolution media sharing and typing indicators .

Improved Accessibility Features
Enhancements such as braille compatibility and improved live captions are expected, making iOS more accessible to users with disabilities .

eSIM Transfer to Android
A feature facilitating the transfer of eSIM profiles from iPhones to Android devices could be introduced, simplifying the process for users switching platforms .

Dynamic App Icons
App icons may become more interactive, reflecting real-time information or statuses, enhancing the home screen's functionality .

Unified Software Naming Convention
The shift to a year-based naming system (iOS 26) aims to align all Apple operating systems, including macOS, iPadOS, and watchOS, for consistency and clarity.

Release Timeline

• June 9, 2025: iOS 26 is expected to be announced at WWDC 2025.
• Late June to Early July 2025: Public beta likely to be available for testing.
• September 2025: Official release anticipated alongside the iPhone 17 series

Device Compatibility

iOS 26 is expected to support iPhone 11 and newer models. Devices like the iPhone XR, XS, and XS Max may not be compatible with this update .