Managing the Liquid Glass Interface

The most noticeable change in iOS 26 features is the new Liquid Glass design that makes menus and toolbars translucent. While visually striking, Stern notes it becomes problematic “when you’ve got a bright background and overlapping text.” Fortunately, Apple provides several solutions.

To completely eliminate the glassy effect, navigate to Settings > Accessibility > Display and Text > Reduce Transparency. This removes the translucent look from almost everything. Alternatively, users who want to lessen rather than eliminate the effect can try the Increased Contrast option.

For those embracing the new aesthetic, iOS 26 offers additional customization options. Users can hold down on the home screen, select Edit, then Customize to choose Clear or Tinted options, making all icons match the background. Additionally, the glassy clock can be extended across the screen for a more immersive look.

Revolutionary Communication Features

Moreover, the standout addition to Apple iPhone software is the intelligent call screening system. When receiving calls from unknown numbers, the software automatically asks callers to identify themselves. The system then transcribes the caller’s response, allowing users to decide whether to answer. During Stern’s demonstration, the feature successfully identified a spam caller promoting car warranty services.

Furthermore, Hold Assist eliminates the frustration of waiting on hold. This feature runs calls in the background, muting audio while notifying users when someone picks up. Stern demonstrated this with Apple customer support, noting it as “one of the best features.”

Additionally, live translation during calls supports English, Spanish, Portuguese, German, and French. The feature extends to Messages app with broader language support. However, these translation capabilities require Apple Intelligence, limiting availability to iPhone 15 Pro or newer devices.

Essential iOS 26 Tips and Tricks

The Messages app receives significant enhancements in this update. Users can now add polls to conversations, change chat backgrounds (which affects all participants), and benefit from typing indicators in group chats. The app also introduces three message filters: Messages, Unknown Senders, and Spam, with automatic junk filtering enabled by default.

Similarly, the Camera app underwent a controversial redesign that strips away visible mode options. Users must now swipe across or press and hold to access different modes, with additional settings hidden in a swipe-up menu. Stern describes this as “one of the most frustrating redesigns.”

Nevertheless, new Visual Intelligence features enhance screenshot functionality. Users can tap Search to instantly Google displayed content or circle specific items on screen a feature reminiscent of Android’s “Circle to Search.” This represents another Apple Intelligence tool requiring newer hardware.

Meanwhile, practical improvements include Adaptive Power mode, which learns usage patterns and adjusts battery management on high-usage days. The system also introduces lens cleaning hints, spatial scene effects for lock screens, and the ability to combine emojis through GenMoji.

Notably, AirPods integration expands with Camera Control functionality, allowing users to trigger photos by pressing the stem when the camera app is active. Voice Memos can now be converted to ringtones, while CarPlay screenshot capture can be disabled for users tired of unwanted screenshots.

Watch the original video here for Joanna Stern’s complete demonstration.

Related: Explore more technology articles covering the latest developments in cybersecurity and digital innovation.

Final take: While iOS 26 introduces impressive features like call screening and live translation, the Liquid Glass interface remains divisive. Fortunately, Apple provides customization options to tailor the experience. As technology continues evolving rapidly, staying informed about these updates becomes crucial for both personal security and productivity. For comprehensive insights into emerging tech trends, cybersecurity threats, and automation solutions, browse our extensive resources covering everything from iPhone security features to enterprise-level cybersecurity strategies.