At the WWDC 2025 event on Monday, Apple introduced a plethora of new features set to launch with iOS 26 this fall. These updates span across various apps, bringing significant enhancements that cater to user demands, including the highly anticipated Call Screening, advanced travel capabilities in Wallet, and new group chat functionalities in Messages. The updates incorporate Apple Intelligence, such as Live Translation, while also reintroducing familiar features like tabs in the Photos app to improve user experience.
One of the standout features is Phone Call Screening, which allows users to determine the purpose of a call before answering. When receiving a call from an unknown number, the feature will silently answer in the background. The caller can share their name and reason for the call, prompting the iPhone to ring, thus enabling users to decide whether to answer or ignore the call. Additionally, the Hold Assist feature will keep users on the line during hold music until a live agent is available, while Live Translation will facilitate real-time conversation translations during phone calls.
In the Messages app, group chat members can now create polls to streamline event planning and facilitate quicker decision-making. Leveraging Apple Intelligence, the app will automatically suggest creating a poll when it detects the need. Users can also customize backgrounds for their group chats, see typing indicators, and send or request Apple Cash within group conversations. Furthermore, the app will now filter messages from unknown senders, directing them to a dedicated folder where users can manage them more effectively.
Apple Music is set to enhance the listening experience with a new Lyrics Translation feature that enables users to understand their favorite songs in different languages. Additionally, the Lyrics Pronunciation feature will provide phonetic lyrics for users wishing to sing along in a foreign language. The introduction of an AudioMix feature will allow for seamless transitions between songs, employing techniques similar to DJ mixing. Moreover, a karaoke feature will transform your iPhone into a microphone for Apple TV, amplifying your voice as you sing along to your favorite tunes.
Apple Maps is becoming smarter by utilizing on-device intelligence to suggest preferred routes for daily commutes. Users will receive notifications about delays and alternative routes. The new Visited Places feature will help users remember their past locations, with the assurance that this information is protected through end-to-end encryption.
With Apple Wallet, users can now store a digital version of their passport, referred to as Digital ID. Although it won’t replace a physical passport, it serves as a convenient tool for age and identity verification at designated TSA checkpoints. Users can also present their driver’s licenses or state IDs through Wallet for verification on various platforms, including Chime and Uber Eats. Additionally, the Wallet app will enhance the boarding pass experience with real-time flight updates and the ability to share this information with others.
FaceTime will leverage the Live Translation feature to bridge communication gaps between users speaking different languages. Translated captions will be displayed during conversations, enabling seamless interaction.
The Camera app will display the most frequently used capture modes directly on the main screen, allowing for quick access to additional modes with a simple swipe. Furthermore, Apple Podcasts is enhancing user experience by allowing playback speed adjustments and introducing an Enhance Dialogue feature that improves speech clarity over background noise.
Lastly, the Image Playground is integrating ChatGPT to offer users new creative styles for images, including options for vector art and oil painting. Users can describe their desired image, and the tool will generate unique visuals based on their input.
Stay tuned for more updates as Apple continues to unveil exciting features and enhancements with the upcoming iOS 26 launch.
