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Apple is preparing to host its annual Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) next week, and all eyes are on what the company has in store for iPhone users. While the successor to iOS 18 is expected to be unveiled, rumour has it Apple may skip several versions ahead, launching iOS 26 instead of iOS 19. Though not officially confirmed, this surprising move could align with the broader AI advancements Apple has been teasing.

Here’s a look at the key features and changes that could arrive with iOS 26, based on current leaks and speculation.

1. Smarter Battery Management Powered by AI

One of the standout features of iOS 26 could be intelligent battery optimisation. Using AI, the system may learn your daily habits and adjust background processes and power consumption automatically—giving you more screen time without needing to tweak settings manually.

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2. Real-Time Translation with AirPods

In what could be a major step forward in communication tech, AirPods may gain the ability to translate spoken conversations live during calls. Your iPhone would handle the processing, delivering translated speech straight into your ears. If accurate, this would be Apple’s most advanced translation feature yet.

3. Apple Intelligence 2.0

Apple’s voice assistant, Siri, is expected to finally get the AI upgrade users have been waiting for. With iOS 26, Siri could become quicker, more accurate, and more responsive to context. AI features are also likely to spread deeper into the OS, enhancing apps like Safari, Photos, and Notes. Expect more advanced versions of tools like Genmoji and Image Playground too.

4. Messaging Gets Smarter: Auto-Translate and Polls

The Messages app is also set for some upgrades. One anticipated addition is the automatic translation of both sent and received texts. Users may also be able to create interactive polls within chats, with the possibility of AI-generated poll suggestions based on the conversation.

5. Full-Screen Animated Album Art on Lock Screen

Apple Music is getting more visual flair. With iOS 26, animated album covers could appear in full screen on the Lock Screen, with Now Playing features dynamically adjusting colours and animations while your music plays.

6. New Games App Replaces Game Center

iOS 26 might introduce a dedicated Games app, giving users a central hub for all their gaming needs—eliminating the need to dive into the App Store. It’s likely to replace the existing Game Center and could offer features like player communication and activity tracking.

7. Refreshed CarPlay Interface

CarPlay is also expected to receive a design update with cleaner layouts, improved navigation, and more modern visuals. The redesign won’t just be limited to premium models; regular CarPlay users will benefit as well.

8. Desktop Mode for iPhones with USB-C

Borrowing inspiration from the iPad’s Stage Manager, Apple may introduce a desktop-like interface for iPhones equipped with USB-C. This would allow users to connect their iPhone to an external display and use multiple apps simultaneously, making multitasking far more powerful.

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9. Markdown Export in Apple Notes

Another practical improvement could be the ability to export Notes in Markdown format—a long-requested feature already common in third-party apps. It’ll simplify the process of sharing and formatting text for developers, writers, and professionals.

10. Revamped and New Built-In Apps

  • iOS 26 will likely bring updates across several core apps:
  • A new Games app will replace and enhance Game Center
  • The Health app may add food tracking, instructional videos, and AI-driven coaching.
  • Messages will receive RCS support, boosting security and improving media sharing.

Expect a wide range of smaller but impactful tweaks throughout the system, making iOS 26 a meaningful leap forward in Apple’s software journey.

With AI expected to play a central role, iOS 26 could mark one of Apple’s most significant updates in years—both functionally and visually. Whether or not the name jump to iOS 26 becomes reality, there’s plenty to look forward to at WWDC.

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