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At WWDC 2025, Apple officially introduced iOS 26, bringing a refreshed design and several new features aimed at enhancing everyday usability. Interestingly, many of the standout additions feel familiar—because they’ve already been part of the Android ecosystem for some time.

Apple has taken a clear step toward functionality over flash, borrowing some tried-and-tested features from Google’s playbook and refining them for iPhone users. Here’s a look at the Android-like features now arriving with iOS 26.

Android-Like Features Now in iOS 26

1. Visual Intelligence (Like Google Lens)

Apple has upgraded its on-screen search with smarter visual intelligence. On supported devices like the iPhone 15 Pro and upcoming iPhone 16 series, users can take screenshots to trigger on-screen searches—just like Google Lens. Apple has also integrated ChatGPT to help answer more complex queries.

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2. Call Screening

One of the most useful features for Android users—Call Screening—is now coming to iPhones. This tool picks up calls from unknown numbers, asks the caller for information, and displays a transcript so users can decide whether or not to answer. It’s a familiar feature for Pixel users, and now Apple users get the same convenience.

3. Hold Assist

Apple’s new Hold Assist works much like Google’s Hold for Me. During long hold times on calls, this feature manages hold music, announcements, and notifications, letting you get on with other things until a human picks up.

4. Live Translation

Borrowing another smart feature from Android, iOS 26 brings Live Translation to select apps like Messages, FaceTime, and the Phone app. It supports both text and voice in supported languages, helping users communicate more fluidly across language barriers.

5. Visited Places in Maps

Apple Maps now has a Visited Places feature, which allows users to view and manage a history of locations they’ve been to. This mirrors Google Maps’ Timeline, offering a helpful way to track past travels.

Bonus Features Inspired by Other Apps

Apple has also added some features to Messages that will feel familiar to WhatsApp users. You can now create polls and customise chat backgrounds—features that are already staples on third-party messaging apps.

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In short, iOS 26 shows Apple taking notes from Android’s best features—and putting its own spin on them. While the ideas may not be new, the polished Apple execution could make them feel fresh to iPhone users.