Apple has recently rolled out its latest operating system for the iPhone, iOS 26, and if you haven't yet updated your device, it's time to check your iPhone's compatibility. This update, which arrived just two weeks ago, introduces significant enhancements, including the striking new Liquid Glass design and advanced Apple Intelligence features that facilitate translations, summaries, and custom emojis. While these major updates are hard to miss, some of the more subtle tweaks can significantly enhance your daily experience with your iPhone.
Here, we will delve into 18 hidden features of iOS 26 that you may not be aware of but can transform the way you use your device. From improved customization options to efficiency-boosting tools, these features exemplify how the iPhone continues to evolve in meaningful ways.
Have you ever questioned the standard 9-minute snooze option on your iPhone alarm? This duration is a throwback to analog clocks, but with iOS 26, you can finally customize your snooze length. Simply open the Clock app, select your alarm, and choose the Snooze Duration option. You can set the snooze time anywhere between 1 and 15 minutes, tailored to your personal preference.
Gone are the days of needing GarageBand or a Mac to craft your custom ringtone. With iOS 26, you can easily create a ringtone directly from the Files app. Just tap on an MP3 or M4A file under 30 seconds, select Share, and choose 'Use as Ringtone.' This will save your new ringtone in Settings > Sounds & Haptics > Ringtone for easy access.
The Messages app has become more versatile with a new feature that allows you to highlight and copy specific portions of a text bubble. This is particularly useful for extracting passwords or codes from longer messages. Press and hold the message, select 'Text,' and utilize the selection handles to grab only what you need.
Planning to revisit a memorable restaurant or location? With iOS 26, Apple Maps now maintains a list of places you've visited, complete with timestamps. Access this feature by going to Maps > Profile icon > Places > Visited Places. Your visited locations are stored privately on your device, ensuring only you can see them.
One of the practical improvements in iOS 26 is the addition of battery charge time estimates. When you connect your iPhone to a charger, the lock screen displays how long it will take to reach 80% and 100% charge, making it easier to plan brief charging sessions.
In the Settings > Battery section, you can now find a new feature called Adaptive Power Mode. This intelligent setting automatically adjusts your phone's performance based on your current activities, whether you are streaming music at home or gaming. This means you can enjoy optimal performance without manual adjustments.
Now, your photos can come to life with the Spatial Scenes feature in the Photos app. With compatible devices, this feature creates immersive, 3D-like views of your pictures. Simply open a photo and activate the Spatial toggle to explore depth and perspective by tilting your iPhone.
iOS 26 enhances screenshot functionality with Visual Intelligence. After taking a screenshot, tap the thumbnail to access editing options, including 'Ask' to send the image with a question to ChatGPT and 'Image Search' to find visually similar results online. This feature makes it easier to gather context around your screenshots.
For music lovers, iOS 26 introduces real-time lyric translations in Apple Music. By tapping on the Lyrics view and selecting 'Translate These Lyrics', you can see the translated lyrics align with the original, enhancing your understanding of songs in foreign languages.
The Phone app has been upgraded with a live call screening feature. When you receive a call from an unknown number, simply tap 'Screen Call' to see a real-time transcription of the caller's message. This allows you to decide whether to answer or decline the call.
With iOS 26, your AirPods can double as a remote shutter for taking photos. Open the Camera app and double-tap your AirPod to snap a picture, making it easier to capture group shots or selfies from a distance.
Bring a personal touch to your messaging experience by setting custom backgrounds for your text message threads. In the Messages app, tap the name at the top of a conversation, select 'Backgrounds,' and choose from colors, gradients, or even photos.
The Preview app, a staple of macOS, is now available on iOS for editing PDFs. Open a PDF in Files or Mail, tap 'Markup', and highlight text, add notes, or sign documents without needing third-party software. This makes managing documents on your iPhone more efficient.
Apple has simplified navigation with a new gesture that allows you to swipe right from anywhere in the app window to go back. This works in various stock apps, such as Safari and Mail, enhancing user experience and fluidity.
iOS 26 introduces satellite connectivity to the Weather app, allowing you to check basic weather conditions even in areas without cellular service. This feature is particularly useful for outdoor enthusiasts and travelers.
The Camera app now features a gentle reminder to clean your lens if it detects glare or smudges. This alert will pop up before you take a photo, helping you capture clearer images.
Screenshots taken in iOS 26 now feature HDR quality, ensuring that captured images look just as vibrant and detailed as what you see on your display. This upgrade enhances the visual fidelity of your saved images.
Lastly, the Wallet app will soon support digital passports in select regions. You can add your passport just like you would a driver's license, making travel more streamlined and reducing the need for physical documents.
While the standout features of iOS 26 may take center stage, these hidden gems offer significant improvements that enhance your iPhone experience. From customizable alarms to innovative photo capabilities and practical call screening, these features make the update worth your time. Explore these new functionalities and enjoy a more personalized and efficient way to use your device.
