iOS 26: 10+ Exciting Features Coming at WWDC 2025

Apple’s annual Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) is just around the corner, and this year’s showcase promises big changes for iPhone users. Slated to arrive on June 9, 2025, iOS 26 is shaping up to be one of Apple’s most transformative updates yet. While previous versions of iOS focused heavily on Apple Intelligence, iOS 26 pivots toward a complete visual overhaul, enhanced system tools, and deeper AI integration. In this Discover-friendly, user-friendly news article, we’ll break down all the top features you can expect in iOS 26—and answer some of the most frequently asked questions about this release.

What Makes iOS 26 Stand Out?

Over the past few years, Apple has steadily shifted its attention toward AI-driven functionality. iOS 18, released in 2023, introduced “Apple Intelligence” tools like email summarization and the Clean Up tool in Photos. With iOS 26, however, Apple appears ready to highlight a more holistic user experience. Instead of focusing solely on behind-the-scenes AI improvements, iOS 26 blends surface-level enhancements (like a brand-new design language) with under-the-hood optimizations. Here’s a quick overview of what we’ve heard so far:

1. Complete Design Overhaul
2. Second Wave of Apple Intelligence Features
3. Revamped Apple Apps (Health, Translate, Games, Messages)
4. Expanded Accessibility Tools
5. Easier eSIM Migration to Android
6. Improved System Stability
7. Enhanced White Noise Feature
8. Smarter Captive Wi-Fi Handling
9. New Bilingual Arabic–English Keyboard
10. Charging Time Estimates on Lock Screen
11. External Display Stage Manager

Below, we dive deeper into each of these changes. Whether you’re an iPhone veteran or a newcomer studying device trends (or you just want to stay ahead of the curve), you’ll find plenty here to get excited about.

1. Complete Design Overhaul

One of the most talked-about changes is a sweeping visual refresh across iOS and macOS. Apple aims to unify its design language so that buttons, icons, and controls appear consistent no matter which Apple device you’re using. This is especially beneficial for users who switch between MacBooks, iPads, and iPhones throughout the day. Expect:

• Redesigned System Icons: Many core apps—like Settings, Messages, and Photos—will sport new glyphs and color palettes.
• Refined Controls: Buttons, toggles, and sliders will feel more polished, with subtle animations that convey state changes more clearly.
• Improved Navigation Mechanics: Menus and gestures will be streamlined, making iOS simpler to learn and faster to navigate.
• Unified App Experience: Developers will receive updated Human Interface Guidelines, ensuring third-party apps feel native to the new iOS design.

Overall, this design overhaul should make your iPhone interface feel fresh and intuitive, while also closing the gap between iPhone and Mac user experiences.

2. Second Wave of Apple Intelligence Features

Apple hasn’t abandoned its AI ambitions; rather, it’s folding those features into everyday system functions. iOS 26 is expected to include:

• Siri Upgrades: Siri will gain deeper AI capabilities, offering more contextually aware suggestions, better natural language understanding, and even proactive shortcuts based on your routines.
• Battery Health and Optimization: AI will work behind the scenes to optimize battery charging cycles, temperature management, and resource allocation—ultimately extending your battery lifespan.
• ChatGPT Integration and More: Rumors suggest that Apple will allow third-party AI services (such as ChatGPT) to plug into Siri or other native apps. Imagine getting ultra-accurate answers for complex queries without leaving Messages or Notes.
• New AI-Powered Apps: Look for Apple to expand Apple Intelligence into apps like Image Playground (for quick on-device image edits) and Genmoji (for creating personalized emoji). These mini-apps could radically change how you interact with media on your iPhone.

Because Apple processes AI tasks on-device when possible, you’ll see snappier responses and more privacy. If you’re curious about other AI-related news or want to compare how AI is evolving in smartphones, check out our ongoing coverage at AkonMobile.

3. Revamped Apple Apps

Every iOS release tends to bring tweaks to staple apps like Mail, Photos, and Safari. But iOS 26 is shaping up to be one of the more significant app updates in recent memory:

• Games App: For the first time, Apple is launching a dedicated Games app that functions as a central hub for all gaming on the iPhone. You’ll be able to browse, download, and launch games directly from this app—much like you do on Apple TV.
• Translate App with Live AirPods Support: If you rely on Live Translate during trips abroad, you’ll love that you can now translate spoken conversations in real-time directly through AirPods. This could be a game-changer for international travelers, especially since iOS 26 reportedly adds support for more languages.
• All-New Health App with Apple Health+: Apple Health is getting a major facelift. A new subscription service—Apple Health+—will allow you to log meals, watch educational videos on nutrition and exercise, and even work with an AI coach that offers personalized fitness tips. Health+ also promises better integration with fitness trackers and gym equipment.
• Messages Overhaul: End-to-end encryption is expanding to cover more data types (including shared links and AR content). Plus, iOS 26 will support Rich Communication Services (RCS) on iPhone, which should make messaging with Android users more reliable and feature-rich.

These app improvements aim to make Apple’s ecosystem feel more cohesive. Whether you’re tracking workouts, translating phrases on the fly, or enjoying mobile games, iOS 26 streamlines the process.

4. Expanded Accessibility Tools

Apple has a long history of championing accessible technology. With iOS 26, anticipate:

• App Store Labels: Developers will be encouraged (or required) to add detailed labels about possible sensory triggers, localization details, and other accessibility info. This helps you find the right apps for your needs more easily.
• Systemwide Reader Mode: Inspired by Safari’s Reader View, you’ll get a universal Reader mode that simplifies the view in any app with text—effectively stripping out clutter, adjusting font sizes, and improving contrast.
• Voice Control Enhancements: Improved voice dictation accuracy, new voice commands for system navigation, and better support for custom voice commands. If hands-free operation is important to you, these tweaks can be a massive help.

By making apps and core system features more accessible, Apple ensures that everyone can enjoy the iPhone with fewer obstacles.

5. Easier eSIM Migration to Android

Switching between iPhone and Android has always been cumbersome, especially when it comes to transferring your eSIM. iOS 26 promises a guided migration tool that securely exports eSIM details to Android devices. While you’ll still need to verify carrier compatibility, this feature should drastically reduce the time and confusion involved in switching platforms.

6. Improved System Stability

Every iOS update aims to fix bugs and improve performance. Apple has hinted that iOS 26 will be “much less glitchy than previous generations.” Expect:

• Faster App Launch Times: Optimizations under the hood should reduce instances of app freezing or crashing.
• Reduced Background Battery Drain: By intelligently managing background tasks, iOS 26 will ensure your battery lasts even longer throughout the day.
• Seamless Software Updates: A redesigned update framework may allow you to resume using your phone while updates install in the background—minimizing downtime.

These refinements may not be flashy, but they’re crucial for making iPhones feel smoother and more reliable.

7. Enhanced White Noise Feature

If you rely on white noise or ambient sounds to fall asleep, study, or focus, iOS 26 has you covered. The built-in White Noise feature is getting:

• More Sound Options: Expect a wider selection of ambient soundscapes, from rainforest rain to urban white noise.
• Dynamic Playback Controls: You’ll be able to set sleep timers, loop specific tracks, and adjust individual frequencies for customized sound profiles.
• Background Audio Support: White noise can now continue playing even if you switch to other apps or lock your screen.

For anyone who relies on ambient audio to unwind, these enhancements turn your iPhone into an even more powerful wellness tool.

8. Smarter Captive Wi-Fi Handling

We’ve all encountered those captive Wi-Fi networks at coffee shops or airports that require you to log in via a browser page. iOS 26’s Captive Wi-Fi feature aims to make connecting to these networks more intuitive:

• Automatic Login Prompts: When you detect a captive network, iOS 26 will present a simplified login interface without forcing you to hunt through Safari bookmarks.
• Saved Network Profiles: If you regularly connect to a particular captive network (for instance, your favorite café), you can store credentials so iOS logs you in automatically next time.
• Enhanced Security Alerts: The system will warn you if a captive network’s certificate is invalid or if it’s potentially unsafe.

Connecting to public Wi-Fi doesn’t have to be a headache, and these tweaks should help you stay online more efficiently.

9. New Bilingual Arabic–English Keyboard

Apple is continuing its international expansion by adding a bilingual Arabic–English keyboard. This feature will let users:

• Switch Languages Seamlessly: No more digging through keyboard settings—just tap and glide between Arabic and English as you type.
• Predictive Text in Both Languages: AI-driven suggestions will work across languages, speeding up multilingual communication.
• Customizable Layouts: Choose from different keyboard designs and themes optimized for right-to-left or left-to-right typing.

This push into Arabic-speaking markets shows Apple’s dedication to localization and reaching underserved language communities.

10. Charging Time Estimates on Lock Screen

One small but highly anticipated addition is the charging time estimate. Once you plug in your iPhone, the lock screen will display an estimate—“Charging, 80% in 20 minutes,” for example. This information helps you plan usage more effectively, especially if you’re rushing to head out and need a quick power boost.

11. External Display Stage Manager

iPad users have enjoyed Stage Manager since iPadOS 16, which allows for advanced multitasking when connected to an external display. iOS 26 brings this feature to iPhones when connected to compatible monitors or TVs:

• Resizable Windows: You can run multiple apps in floating windows, resizing and arranging them as you like.
• Drag-and-Drop Support: Move files, text, or images between apps seamlessly on the big screen.
• Keyboard and Trackpad Integration: If you pair a Magic Keyboard or Bluetooth trackpad with your iPhone, you’ll navigate Stage Manager much like you do on an iPad.

For anyone who uses the iPhone as a mini-computer, this update makes iOS even more versatile in professional or creative workflows.

How to Prepare for iOS 26

If you’re eager to jump onto iOS 26 as soon as it’s released, here are a few tips:

1. Back Up Your iPhone: Before any major update, always back up your device via iCloud or iTunes. This protects you if anything goes wrong during installation.
2. Free Up Storage: Major OS upgrades often require several gigabytes of free space. Delete unused apps, clear caches, or offload old photos to iCloud.
3. Check App Compatibility: Some older apps might not be optimized for iOS 26’s new design. Make sure your most essential apps are updated to the latest versions.
4. Join the Public Beta (Optional): If you can’t wait until fall, sign up for Apple’s Beta Software Program. But remember—public betas aren’t as stable as the final release.

Once you have iOS 26 installed, explore all the new settings, widgets, and design elements. And if you’re curious about how different iOS versions compare or want more insights on optimizing your iPhone, be sure to visit AkonMobile for in-depth reviews and tutorials.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Conclusion

iOS 26 is more than just a “point release.” With its sweeping design overhaul, deeper AI integration, and a host of new features—like Stage Manager for external displays and a bilingual Arabic–English keyboard—this update represents a significant leap forward for iPhone users. Whether you’re excited about the new Games app, the enhanced White Noise feature, or the promise of fewer bugs, iOS 26 has something for everyone.

Stay tuned for June 9, when Apple officially unveils iOS 26 at WWDC 2025. And don’t forget to bookmark AkonMobile for detailed tutorials, hands-on reviews, and the latest news on everything mobile.