The upcoming iOS 26, potentially showcased at WWDC 2025, is stirring excitement among Apple enthusiasts. As this major event approaches, speculation about the functionalities of iOS 26 has intensified. Even though these insights are not officially validated, they provide a glimpse of what innovations may be on the horizon. The true confirmation will occur once Apple reveals its updates.

Could Apple Rename iOS?

It seems plausible. Contrary to expectations for iOS 19, reports indicate that Apple plans to adopt the naming convention of iOS 26, aligning with the upcoming year’s title. As reported by Mark Gurman from Bloomberg, similar changes are anticipated across all operating systems, including iPadOS 26, macOS 26, watchOS 26, and visionOS 26.

Revamped Design for iOS 26

Despite significant modifications over the years, the core visual style remains rooted in the last major redesign from 2013’s iOS 7. It has been nearly 12 years since a major visual refresh took place, leading users to create custom Lock Screens and modify app icons.

Gurman indicates that this may change with the introduction of iOS 26, alongside iPadOS 26 and macOS 26. While specific details are limited, sources within Apple suggest a desire to harmonize design elements across devices without fully merging the operating systems. This could mean iOS 26 might incorporate elements from visionOS, featuring circular app icons, clearer window aspects, and possibly some 3D elements, though the latter could be challenging to adapt for 2D displays.

A concept video created by Jon Prosser showcases some of these envisioned features here. If these discussions prove to be accurate, iOS 26 could herald “one of the most significant software revamps” the company has ever undertaken.

Alongside design enhancements, a focus on stability is reportedly a primary goal for this year. Gurman has mentioned that improving reliability is a key area of concern for Apple, which is something users will undoubtedly appreciate.

Real-Time Translation for AirPods

Additionally, reports indicate that Apple is working on a live translation functionality for specific AirPods models. This feature aims to automatically translate conversations from unfamiliar languages into the user’s preferred language. When individuals speak, their words will be translated by their iPhone using the Translate app.

While this isn’t a revolutionary feature—having been available via Google’s Pixel Buds for some time—it would certainly enrich the iOS 26 experience for AirPods users.

Enhancements in Accessibility

Apple usually keeps details of upcoming updates under wraps before public announcements, with accessibility features being a notable exception. Recently, the company unveiled a series of accessibility enhancements intended for devices “later this year.” While not explicitly mentioned, it is fairly certain these updates will be seen in iOS 26 and its counterparts.

Among the new features is an Accessibility Reader that aims to improve text readability on iOS. The Magnifier will be available on Mac, while the App Store will introduce “Accessibility nutrition” labels to highlight apps’ accessibility. Live Captions will be featured on the Apple Watch, and Vehicle Motion Cues are also making their way to Mac devices.

A ‘Desktop’ Mode

There are whispers about a new “Stage Manager-like desktop mode” for iPhones equipped with USB-C running iOS 26. This functionality would allow users to connect their iPhone to an external monitor, essentially extending their device’s display onto a larger screen.

This feature may not fully replicate a “desktop mode” akin to what Samsung DeX offers, as it may not enable iPhones to function as portable computers in that sense. Nonetheless, it could simplify the process of sharing content on larger displays.

Simplified Public Wi-Fi Connectivity

For those who routinely connect multiple devices to public Wi-Fi networks, the task of logging in each time can be cumbersome. Thankfully, Gurman has indicated that Apple’s forthcoming updates will allow users to sign into a Wi-Fi network with one Apple device (like an iPhone, iPad, or Mac), automatically connecting the others thereafter.

Advancements in Battery Management

One exciting application for AI may involve optimizing battery life. There are rumors suggesting that iOS 26 will monitor user habits to identify ideal moments to reduce performance in order to extend battery duration. Everyone could benefit from maximizing the time between charges.

Additionally, a charging indicator may be introduced to the lock screen to alert users about the remaining time for charging, a feature that has been notably absent from iPhones for years. While available through Activity Monitor on MacBooks, its integration into the menu bar on iPhones would be a welcome return.

Compatibility for iOS 26

Chances are, your current iPhone model will support iOS 26, provided you are running the latest software updates. A source affiliated with Apple, cited by a French site iPhoneSoft.fr, suggests that any device capable of running iOS 18 should also be eligible for iOS 26. However, it seems the iPad 7 may not be in line for the iPadOS 26 update.

Additional insights from MacRumors indicate that Apple might discontinue support for the iPhone XR, XS, and XS Max this cycle. The official details will be unveiled on Monday, revealing which devices will remain compatible.

Introduction of a New Gaming App

As reported by Gurman, Apple may be launching a new dedicated gaming app for iOS, iPadOS, macOS, and tvOS, intended as a replacement for the existing Game Center. This upcoming app is expected to facilitate game launches, leaderboard tracking, communication with friends, and achievements viewing.

If this indeed materializes, it arrives shortly after the launch of the Nintendo Switch 2. While there’s skepticism surrounding whether such an app can sufficiently compete with giants like Nintendo, it’s intriguing to consider Apple’s potential in the gaming sphere.

Integration of Apple Intelligence in Shortcuts

The Shortcuts app allows users to set up automation across Apple devices. Reports suggest that in iOS 26, Apple plans to integrate Apple Intelligence within Shortcuts, possibly enabling users to articulate their desired shortcuts in natural language and have the AI construct them automatically.

Minor Updates on the Horizon

Sources from 9to5Mac reveal that Apple may be implementing new features across various applications, including:

• Messages: Automatic translations for both incoming and outgoing messages, as well as polling features.

• Music: Full-screen animated visuals on the lock screen.

• Notes: Support for Markdown, a significant enhancement for advanced users.

• CarPlay: A user interface redesign tailored for iOS 26.

Siri and Apple Intelligence Integration

According to Gurman, Apple intends to merge Siri with Apple Intelligence during the iOS 26 patch cycle. Although Siri is currently part of Apple Intelligence, a new LLM is reportedly in development to unify its structure, better enabling it to address more complex requests. At present, Siri’s AI capabilities are relatively limited, as most of its functions do not utilize this advanced technology.

Gurman anticipates that the merger will finalize by spring 2026 with the release of iOS 26.4. Initially, there were plans for a revamped conversational Siri in the same update, but this has been delayed and is not expected to feature at WWDC 2025.

Moreover, Gurman advises that, due to the incomplete rollout of last year’s Apple Intelligence features, additional unannounced functionalities might take longer to surface.