Apple’s latest software updates — iOS 26, iPadOS 26, watchOS 26, and macOS 26 Tahoe — are set to redefine the user experience with a new semi-translucent “Liquid Glass” design and enhanced features. These updates are available for eligible devices starting Monday, September 15, 2025, promising significant changes to interface design, security, and functionality.
What Happened
Apple’s software updates have long been an event eagerly awaited by users worldwide. This year, the tech giant is rolling out some of its most transformative changes to iPhones, iPads, Watches, and Macs. The release includes a completely overhauled interface design, dubbed the “Liquid Glass” look, that introduces rounded edges, semi-translucent icons, and deeper integration across the devices for a unified and modern aesthetic.
Additionally, new features like improved spam call filtering, dynamic lock screens, advanced gaming apps, and enhanced multitasking capabilities on iPads aim to provide a more user-friendly experience. These updates are seen as some of the most significant in Apple’s software history, especially with the introduction of “Liquid Glass” that mirrors the depth-based interface previously seen in Apple’s Vision Pro headset.
Who Can Get the Update?
The updates are available to all eligible Apple devices, with compatibility for:
- iOS 26: iPhone 11 and newer
- iPadOS 26: iPad Pro (2018 or newer), iPad Air (3rd gen, 2019), iPad Mini (5th gen), iPad (8th gen) and newer
- watchOS 26: Apple Watches Series 6 and newer
- macOS 26 Tahoe: MacBook Air (2020), 16-inch MacBook Pro (2019), iMac (2020), and newer
Key Features of the Updates
Liquid Glass Design:
The new “Liquid Glass” design brings a sleek, frosted glass effect with semi-transparency to the user interface. This visually fresh look enhances the usability by offering dynamic interactions across icons, notifications, and buttons. The new design will be a central feature on all devices — iPhones, iPads, and Apple Watches — ensuring a modern, cohesive experience.
iOS 26 Enhancements:
iOS 26 introduces several key changes, including colorless and translucent app icons, dynamic widgets on the lock screen, and improved call and message filtering to reduce spam. Another notable addition is the new Games app, which consolidates your gaming library and tracks achievements, replacing Game Centre. Plus, users will benefit from new privacy features, including automatic spam call screening and the ability to hold calls while waiting in line.
iPadOS 26 Upgrades:
For iPad users, iPadOS 26 adds multitasking features inspired by macOS, including a menu bar for better window management and split-screen functionality. iPadOS 26 also includes a revamped Files app, improved document management tools, and the integration of Apple’s Preview app, which allows users to edit PDFs and images directly on their tablets. The update is designed to make the iPad an even more powerful device for productivity and creativity.
watchOS 26 Features:
watchOS 26 introduces new health and fitness capabilities, including a sleep score system and blood pressure alerts for newer watch models. The addition of “Workout Buddy,” a fitness chatbot, offers personalized encouragement during workouts. A new wrist flick gesture will allow users to dismiss notifications with a simple motion, enhancing usability. WatchOS 26 also includes new watch faces, including the customizable “Flow” and “Exactograph,” as well as an ultra-exclusive “Waypoint” face that incorporates live GPS data.
macOS 26 Tahoe Enhancements:
macOS 26 Tahoe brings many of the visual and functional changes from iOS and iPadOS, such as the Liquid Glass effect and improved app interfaces. The Mac version also introduces a full Phone app integration, allowing users to make and take calls directly from their Mac. New features in Spotlight allow for more actions directly from the search bar, such as composing emails, managing files, and syncing third-party cloud services.
How Do I Get the Update?
Apple users can update their devices by heading to the “Software Update” section in the settings. For iPhones and iPads, go to Settings > General > Software Update. For Macs, navigate to System Settings > General > Software Update. The update is free, and it is recommended to back up your device before initiating the installation.
Closing Line
As Apple continues to push boundaries in user experience design, these updates mark a major shift in how users interact with their devices, promising a more seamless, integrated ecosystem. This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
