The public beta of iOS 26 is here and this is not just another round of subtle points. This year, the update brings some of the most significant changes to the way your iPhone looks and feels for a long time. Between the lightning new interface, the revised applications and the surprisingly fun touches in familiar places, Apple relies on a large customization and Polish. Do not hesitate to jump; Although it is a public beta beta, iOS 26 is not a half -baked edition like the promising, but Google’s Scars Android 16.
1. Liquid glass: a transformative new appearance
Liquid Glass is the new design of Apple’s interface and completely transforms the iPhone. Notices, applications, pop menus, buttons and almost everything else you can click are already transparent and layered, creating a fresh, attractive look.
As I tested beta, I noticed that the effect of the glass appeared to be finely displaced by the icons as you tilt your screen. In the same way, the elements of the interface glow or blur based on the content of the background, and the translucent effects give the applications an elegant, almost holographic sensation. I also customized the applications on the home screen to be completely transparent and enter the aesthetics of the liquid glass. This is a major aesthetic change from the more frosted, more static design observed in the latest versions of iOS and welcome.
2. Messages: New Options for Visual and Usability
With iOS 26, the message app is more adaptive than ever. I changed the background to a few chats, or by choosing from dynamic predefined options or using a photo from my library. The result was far more personalized messages.
I really appreciated how easy it was to rearrange the menu tape elements within the message thread by drag them and place them in the order I preferred. I no longer had to scroll through the default order to find the options I use most.
Other new features I tested include:
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Polls: This allows you to send a poll to a person or group. You can add more poll selection even after sending.
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Introduction Indicators: You can now see exactly who writes in group text or in threads one to one with users who are not out of the non -2.
Together I found that these superstructures make messages the most significant redesign in iOS 26 after liquid glass.
3. Camera application: rationalized for one -handed click
Apple pinches the iOS 26 camera interface to make it more intuitive, especially for use with one hand. When I used the camera application, I found that key controls were moved closer to my thumb. This allowed me to jump between photo and video modes with a quick finger.
I enjoyed the wiper of the app, a more simple look and was glad to see that I could switch common tools, such as lightning and night, with one touch – no more digging through many layers. I also adjusted the exposure before taking a photo, not after the fact. No, this is not a complete repair, but this is the most used redesign of the usability that the camera has seen for years.
4. Application for photos: intelligent redesign
The app for photos of iOS 18 refreshes some people because of the cluttered layouts and the buried folders. With iOS 26 Apple makes repairs for its wrong steps. In open photos, I immediately noticed that it was much more convenient for the user.
The new layout focuses on two main sections: one for your full library of photos and the other for albums and types of media such as screenshots, videos and shared content. To test the flexibility of the application, I collapsed these sections and dragged them to rearrange the folders. This simple split makes it easier to jump to what I was looking for without touching endless menus or guessing where there are photos or videos.
The rationalized interface should be particularly welcome for anyone who finds last year’s changes, confusing or difficult to navigate. This is not a total return to the old photo layout, but it achieves a much better balance between the former and the new.
5. Dynamic Screen: More Personalization, New Gadget Functionality
With each iOS Apple update, it focuses more on turning the lock screen for customization, and iOS 26 is no exception. When I activated shuffle photos, the lock screen went through images with adaptive styles per number. This means that the font, size and location of the clock change to complement my wallpaper, whether it is a person, a pet or an item. Combined with a new 3D movement effect that started when I tilted my phone, my final screen felt more vibrant than ever.
The lower, the twisters have also improved the overall usability. For example, I tested locked screen gadgets and found that they were now working, even if you were using a wallpaper for a depth of effect-something that was not possible before. The numbers of time and other elements have a translucent, glass appearance that is associated with the theme of liquid glass. The Redesign of the Locked Screen is the perfect front door to the new aesthetics of iOS 26.
How Beta Beta arranged iOS 26
iOS 26 marks one of the most noticeable iPhone visual updates for years. After spending time with beta, I found that many of the big changes focus on customization and usability, the first being something Apple only reluctant. This combination makes the update feel more than the typical annual refresh. As always, some of these cool features can get tweaks before the final edition of the operating system, but the public beta offers a clear look at where it is heading to Apple. And it’s impressive.