Discover the New Features in iOS 26: A Closer Look
Apple’s upcoming iOS 26 brings a myriad of updates to the iPhone’s interface. Among these is the much-debated Liquid Glass UI, a design that some users may wish to modify as noted in this guide. Additionally, there’s a completely revamped Phone application featuring call screening capabilities reminiscent of Google’s approach, and a streamlined Camera app that conceals most tools until they are needed. This update certainly packs a punch!
Every year, alongside the major announcements at Apple’s keynote event, there are numerous smaller enhancements that often go unnoticed. These subtle changes frequently turn out to be the most enjoyable; while they may not attract the spotlight, they offer unique, entertaining functionalities that deserve attention.
The Camera app showcases one such enhancement. Although the keynote heavily featured the app, this particular functionality was overlooked. Apple briefly referenced it in a list of 36 iOS 26 features that didn’t receive detailed discussion. It’s puzzling that Apple didn’t allocate a moment to demonstrate it during the Camera segment, especially since it’s not only a minor adjustment but a very useful one. Now, with iOS 26, the Camera app will notify users when the lens is dirty.
This feature functions as demonstrated in a Reddit post. If the system detects a smudge or an obstruction on the lens, a small notification will appear at the top of the viewfinder. In one instance, it displays “Clean Back Camera,” and it is likely that a similar alert will appear for the front camera when taking selfies.
[iOS 26 DB1] Clean Back Camera Warning
by u/Decent-Round-5961 in iOSBeta
Discussions on various Reddit threads suggest that this feature may not be available across all iPhones running iOS 26. While Apple extends support to devices as early as the iPhone 11 with this latest software version, reports indicate that the earliest model to have access to this alert is the iPhone 15 Pro. This suggests a possible AI integration for this feature, aligning with Apple’s approach of assigning advanced functionalities to newer models.
Since this is a part of iOS 26, users won’t experience it on their compatible iPhones until the official release in the fall or unless they choose to install the iOS 26 beta version. However, proceeding with the beta is not advisable due to existing risks that could lead to unpredictable behaviors or data loss. For those eager to experience iOS 26 ahead of time, waiting for the public beta, set to be released next month, is recommended.
Adjusting Lens Cleaning Notifications
While the notification includes an X for dismissal, Apple has also provided a new toggle option for users who prefer not to see it. To enable or disable this feature, navigate to Settings > Camera, then scroll to find Lens Cleaning Hints. Toggle it as desired.
