- By Prateek Levi
- Mon, 29 Sep 2025 12:35 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
Apple's new software upgrade, iOS 26, is full of splashy features such as the Liquid Glass design, but beneath them are many subtle tweaks that enhance everyday use. These are the ones that don't get headlines—but once you begin using them, it's difficult to survive without.
One of the most practical updates is to copy only a portion of a message. Rather than copy the entire message, you can long-press a message, tap on "Select", and highlight only what you're after—ideal for capturing a link or address without all the extraneous content.
ALSO READ: Minecraft 1.21.9 Brings Copper Golems, Tools, Armour And More
In the Reminders app, iOS 26 introduces more intelligent Siri Suggestions. You can now save a recipe or list of instructions directly from Safari or Apple News, and Siri will parse it into step-by-step tasks or shopping lists.
If you often open files from the Files app, you now have an option to designate a default app for every file type. Long press, tap "Get Info", and select "Always Open With". There is also an "Open With" quick option for one-time use.
Another considerate modification is including a Drafts folder in the Messages application. Unsent messages aren't lost anymore—they're stored until you're prepared to send them. This is accessible through the Filters view.
For Photos and Camera, iOS 26 enhances panorama shots and even warns you if your camera lens is dirty—especially useful for iPhone 15 users and later. Video search is enhanced too: results now more precisely identify the exact point in the video where the thing you are searching for is located, making it simpler to locate what you're trying to find.
You can now make custom ringtones directly from the Files app with MP3 or M4A files shorter than 30 seconds. After choosing through "Quick Look", share the file and press "Use as Ringtone".
Design fans can even coordinate app icons to their MagSafe case hue with the new Home Screen tinting feature—giving your setup a classy personal flourish.
Other quality-of-life enhancements include:
- Swipe back from any place on the screen, not necessarily the edge.
- Callback reminders for missed calls, configured with an easy swipe.
- A new option to lock AirPods audio to your phone to prevent accidental device switching.
- In Photos, event detection now brings up related information such as songs and upcoming concert dates.
Why iOS 26's Small Changes Matter
These unobtrusive updates may not be glamorous, but they reflect Apple's commitment to simplifying daily tasks. From keeping reminders in order to tailoring your Home Screen to simply keeping your camera tidy, iOS 26 quietly improves productivity without making a fuss.