It’s surprising to be discussing iOS 26 at this point, especially with 2032 still on the horizon. However, with the upcoming WWDC 2025, Apple is set to reveal its latest innovations for the iPhone, featuring both novel functionalities and a new naming convention.

While the exact details remain unknown until Apple’s formal announcement, several rumors and leaks suggest intriguing possibilities. Some rumored features might miss the mark—looking at you, Apple Intelligence—but a few have captured genuine enthusiasm. Below are six anticipated features that ideally will debut with iOS 26.

RCS End-to-End Encryption

The inclusion of RCS support in iOS 18 has been one of the standout improvements. For the first time, iPhones and Android devices could exchange texts natively without relying on SMS. While the message bubbles may still appear in green, at least group messaging functions smoothly.

Despite this advancement, a significant feature is still absent: encryption. Presently, RCS allows for high-quality media sharing, but messages remain less secure than those sent via SMS. End-to-end encryption (E2EE) ensures only the communicating devices can read the exchanged messages, keeping them safe from external access, including from Apple. This is unfortunate since RCS has the capability for encryption (albeit with some issues on Android devices as well).

Fortunately, news about E2EE’s arrival on iOS has circulated; however, there is no definitive timeline. As Apple indicated back in March, RCS encryption is slated for a “future software update,” which may encompass iOS 26 or subsequent versions. Ideally, this feature will arrive sooner rather than later.

Live Translation Capabilities for AirPods

Imagine engaging in a conversation with someone who speaks a different language, only to have their words translated directly into your ears. Although it seems futuristic, this capability is on the verge of being integrated with AirPods.

As reported by Mark Gurman from Bloomberg, specific AirPods models may receive this “live translation” feature. Despite Apple’s apparent efforts to keep this under wraps, Gurman claims that while wearing AirPods, you’ll hear translations of what the person you’re speaking to says, while your iPhone translates your responses for them.

This concept isn’t unprecedented: Google’s Pixel Buds have provided live translation via the conversation mode in their Translate app for years. Hence, there is an existing model for Apple to follow. It would be fantastic if this feature truly arrives with iOS 26.

Visual Redesign of iOS

Insiders suggest that a visual refresh is on the cards for iOS 26. If the speculation holds true, these updates may extend beyond just the iPhone: Apple is supposedly aiming for a design consistency across iOS, iPadOS, macOS, and visionOS.

Early indications hint at inspiration drawn from Apple’s latest product, Apple Vision Pro, leading to rounded icons, floating translucent windows, and revamped animations.

A glimpse into this possible aesthetic can be viewed in this mock-up video by Jon Prosser, which presents rumored designs for iOS 26:

window.videoEmbeds = window.videoEmbeds || [];
window.videoEmbeds.push({
elemId: ‘video-container-YGI8sZqWEl0’,
data: {“slug”:”YGI8sZqWEl0″,”start_time”:”38″,”url”:”https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=YGI8sZqWEl0&start=38″},
videoPlayerType: ‘in-content’
});

While it’s not merely the new design that excites, it’s the prospect of transformation in general. Over the years, Apple’s interface hasn’t strayed far from the foundations of iOS 7, which made its debut over ten years ago. Despite some nostalgic longing for the skeuomorphic aesthetic of iOS 6 and earlier versions, an appealing new UI would be welcomed. The potential for unified aesthetics across iPhone, Mac, and iPad is equally appealing.

Stage Manager-Like Functionality

For those with compatible iPads, connecting an external display can extend the screen akin to using a laptop. Apple refers to this as Stage Manager, a feature that significantly enhances the iPad’s utility for more intensive computing tasks.

Rumors suggest Apple may introduce a similar capability for the iPhone. If accurate, a USB-C iPhone could connect to a monitor, allowing for an extended visual workspace, albeit without transforming it into a full-fledged computer.

This idea presents an exciting opportunity for the iPhone to become a mobile presentation tool. Whether displaying slideshows, videos, or other demonstrations, users could project content fullscreen on any attached display. While it may not match Samsung DeX‘s extensive desktop experience, it could pave the way for similar potential in iOS.

Stability Improvements

While the iPhone serves well overall, a single request remains paramount: a more reliable experience. Most users encounter various minor issues frequently, and it’s likely many share this sentiment.

Mark Gurman reports that enhancing stability is a priority for Apple. The company aims to ensure that this year’s releases are more operational and less error-prone, as earlier updates faced criticism for bugs and malfunctions.

Sounds promising, Apple.

AI-Driven Battery Optimization

While enthusiasm for new generative AI features may vary, advancements in battery longevity driven by AI are undoubtedly intriguing. Extended battery life remains a universal desire.

In the same report discussing the push for improved stability, Gurman shared that Apple is developing a feature to analyze user behavior on the iPhone, optimizing battery conservation as needed. For instance, if it detects that specific intensive features are rarely utilized, it may adjust app performance to prioritize energy savings.

Additionally, Apple is reportedly designing a Lock Screen tool that informs users about the estimated charging time for the iPhone. Such thoughtful enhancements are exactly what many seek from the brand.