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​OS 26: A New Look and Smarter Tools

The Great Unification: Everything You Need to Know About iOS 26, macOS 26 & More

Get ready—the biggest Apple update in years is almost here.


Why It Matters

This isn't just a routine software update; it’s a total transformation. Apple is unifying its entire ecosystem with a stunning new "Liquid Glass" design language and powerful, on-device AI features. Every major OS, from your iPhone to your Mac, is getting a cohesive new look and smarter tools that work together more seamlessly than ever before.


Iphone ios 26 multiple phone view

iOS 26: A New Look and Smarter Tools

The new "Liquid Glass" design is the first thing you'll notice—a beautiful, translucent aesthetic that brings a new level of polish. But the real power is under the hood with "Visual Intelligence," an on-device AI that lets you interact with content on your screen in real time.

  • New Phone App: Completely redesigned with features like "Hold Assist" to wait on hold for you and "Call Screening" for unknown numbers.

  • Visual Intelligence: Use your camera and screen to get instant information. You can ask questions about anything from a monument to a recipe directly from your photos or Safari.

  • Updated Apps: The Photos app gets a massive overhaul for better organization, and the new Passwords app gives you a dedicated space to manage all your credentials.

Compatible iPhones: iPhone 11 and newer. Note that "Visual Intelligence" features are limited to iPhone 15 Pro and newer.


ipad os 26 view

iPadOS 26: Mac-like Multitasking You've Been Waiting For

iPadOS 26 finally brings a truly versatile multitasking experience. The new windowing system allows you to resize and arrange app windows freely, making the iPad feel more like a Mac.

  • Advanced Windowing: No more Stage Manager limitations. You can now freely resize and tile windows with a flick.

  • Arrival of Preview: The powerful Preview app from macOS is now on the iPad, giving you pro-level PDF editing and management.

  • Unified Design: The "Liquid Glass" look and feel make the interface cleaner and more intuitive, matching your iPhone and Mac.

  • Compatible iPads: iPad 8th generation and later. Apple Intelligence features require an M1 chip or newer.


watchoos 26 view of apple watch 11

watchOS 26: A Healthy, Smarter Companion

Your Apple Watch becomes an even more powerful health and wellness tool with watchOS 26. The "Liquid Glass" design makes the interface feel fresh, and new features will keep you healthier than ever.

  • Hypertension Notifications: The watch can now monitor for signs of hypertension, providing alerts to help you manage your blood pressure.

  • "Workout Buddy": An AI-powered assistant that uses your past workout data to offer personalized, real-time motivation and guidance.

  • Notes App: You can finally create and view notes right from your wrist using Siri, dictation, or the keyboard.

Compatible Apple Watches: Apple Watch Series 6 and later, plus all Apple Watch SE and Ultra models.


macOS 26 (Tahoe)

macOS Tahoe (26): A More Cohesive Desktop

macOS is getting a new name—Tahoe—and a beautiful new design to match the rest of the ecosystem. Key features bring the Mac closer to the iPhone and iPad than ever before.

  • "Liquid Glass" & Unified Design: The translucent Dock, menu bar, and sidebars create a stunning, cohesive look.

  • Revamped Spotlight: Spotlight is now a powerhouse. It includes clipboard history and lets you perform actions—like sending an email or converting a file—without even opening an app.

  • Native Phone App: You can now make and receive calls directly from a dedicated Phone app on your Mac, no longer hidden within FaceTime.

Compatible Macs: All Apple Silicon Macs (M1, M2, M3 series) and some Intel models from 2019 onward.


Your Upgrade Plan

Ready to jump in? The updates will be available on September 15. Before you do anything, back up your device. Seriously, do it.

To upgrade, just go to Settings > General > Software Update on your iPhone or iPad, or System Settings > General > Software Update on your Mac. Download and install, then let the devices handle the rest.


Happy upgrading! If you have any questions, you know where to find me.

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