Apple has officially released iOS 26.1, the first major update to its iOS 26 operating system, introducing new customization tools, expanded Apple Intelligence features, and enhancements across Music, Fitness, and child safety settings.
The update — available for iPhone 11 and newer models, as well as the second-generation iPhone SE — can be downloaded by navigating to Settings > General > Software Update.
New Customization and Interface Options
Among the most notable changes is the introduction of Liquid Glass control, a setting that lets users adjust the opacity of the translucent interface found on the Lock Screen and system notifications. The feature provides greater visual flexibility for users who prefer reduced transparency.
Apple has also reworked alarm and timer interactions, requiring a swipe gesture to dismiss, helping prevent accidental cancellations. Privacy-conscious users can now disable the Lock Screen camera shortcut, a long-requested feature.
Smarter AI and Language Expansion
Apple Intelligence, the company’s suite of on-device AI features, expands with iOS 26.1 to support additional regions and languages. Meanwhile, AirPods Live Translation now covers Chinese (Simplified and Traditional), Japanese, Korean, and Italian, enhancing real-time communication for global users.
App and Accessibility Improvements
The Music app adds a MiniPlayer swipe gesture for track changes and introduces AutoMix for smoother transitions over AirPlay. The Fitness app now allows users to log workouts manually, offering flexibility for those without connected devices.
Recording functionality also improves, with gain control for external USB microphones and the ability to select preferred storage locations for local captures.
Enhanced Safety and Performance
Apple has strengthened Communication Safety and web content filters for minors aged 13–17, now enabled by default in supported regions. FaceTime gains improved audio optimization for low-bandwidth environments.
The company cautions that device performance and battery life may vary depending on the model and the features used. Some features remain region-specific, and a complete list of availability can be found at apple.com/ios/feature-availability/.
