What’s New in iOS 26: Key Changes, Challenges, & Tips for Everyday Users

AI-generated, human-reviewed.

iOS 26 delivers some major updates, from the striking Liquid Glass UI and revamped Safari toolbar to improved Control Center design and handy phone features like call screening. On iOS Today, hosts Rosemary Orchard and Dan Moren broke down what these changes mean for real users, how to make the most of new features, and what you might want to tweak or turn off right away.

Major Changes in iOS 26

Apple’s Liquid Glass redesign is the most noticeable shift. This effect adds dynamic, animated transparency throughout menus, widgets, and apps. The goal: a more modern, visually rich experience. However, for many, it’s also a big departure from previous, more stable iOS designs.

Safari also gets a revamped UI. The toolbar is now more compact, with key controls tucked under a three-dot button on the lower right. You can switch between this new style and the previous bottom-tab format in settings. Other apps, like Camera, have shifted their controls to focus on speed and simplicity.

Control Center now incorporates the new glassy look with better legibility after feedback from beta testers. Apple tried to balance aesthetics and real-world usability in everyday tasks.

Other notable features include:

• Call Screening and Hold Assist for reducing spam and making customer service calls less painful.
• Package tracking in Apple Wallet, which automatically scans mail to track deliveries (though update speeds may lag behind third-party apps like Parcel).
• Music “Auto Mix” transitions—this DJ-style feature crossfades and blends songs for a continuous listening experience, but not everyone loves it, especially with mixed-genre playlists.

1st Impressions: What Works and What’s Frustrating

On iOS Today, Rosemary and Dan noted several positives:

• Dynamic UI can feel energetic and modern, with eye-catching effects.
• Widgets and key apps have streamlined controls and gestures.
• Call Features (like Call Screening and Hold Assist) genuinely save time with spam and support calls.

However, big challenges remain:

• Liquid Glass can impact legibility, especially against busy backgrounds. Finding controls like “Search” or Siri may be harder.
• Safari’s compact mode may confuse longtime users, hiding common actions like “Share” behind multiple taps. Fortunately, settings let you revert to a more familiar layout.
• Music AutoMix is too aggressive. It can skip large portions of tracks, distort transitions, and isn’t suited for eclectic playlists. It is best to turn it off unless you only listen to consistent dance or EDM genres.

Practical Tips to Adjust to iOS 26

How to Adapt to Liquid Glass

• If animated elements or new transparency impact usability, explore Focus Modes or Dark Mode to increase contrast.
• Expect third-party apps to lag in adopting the new look, UI consistency may take time to return.

Taming Safari’s New Toolbar

• Go to Settings > Safari and switch “Tabs” to the bottom if you want quicker, easier access to navigation.
• Get comfortable with the three-dot “More” button for sharing, bookmarks, and extras, or adjust shortcuts as needed.

Optimizing Music Playback

• Turn off Song Transitions (Auto Mix) in Settings > Music if you notice songs are getting clipped or transitions feel off, especially on CarPlay.

Make the Most of New Call Features

• Enable Call Screening for fewer interruptions, but realize legitimate calls from unknown numbers may be impacted (e.g., doctor’s offices).
• Use Hold Assist confidently, but verify if it truly flags when a human is back on the line, and it works seamlessly with Apple Support.

Utilize Package Tracking

• Accept that Apple Wallet’s delivery tracking may update slower than apps like Parcel, but it provides a central dashboard for recent orders.

Through the Liquid Glass

• iOS 26 is Apple’s boldest visual overhaul in years, emphasizing animation and transparency. Expect an adjustment period.
• New features aim to improve efficiency: Call tools and package tracking save time, but may need fine-tuning.
• Major UI changes could frustrate power users as many controls have moved or are hidden, but most can be restored or simplified in Settings.
• Some new features (like AutoMix) are best left off unless your habits match their intended use.

If you crave the latest tech and like experimenting, iOS 26’s Liquid Glass and other upgrades will feel fresh. For everyday users, though, expect a learning curve, especially with navigation and hidden buttons. Most problematic features have quick fixes in settings. The best way to enjoy iOS 26? Personalize as much as possible, and don’t hesitate to revert what doesn’t suit you.

For a deeper dive into iOS 26’s real pros, cons, and ready-to-use tips, listen to the full episode: https://twit.tv/shows/ios-today/episodes/768