At WWDC 2025 on June 9, Apple announced a host of new features set to launch with iOS 26 this fall across its apps. Key updates include Call Screening, enhanced travel features in Wallet, and much-anticipated group chat functionalities in Messages.
Among these features is Apple Intelligence, which includes Live Translation. Additionally, Apple is reintroducing tabs in the Photos app for easier navigation. This post will be updated as new features are revealed.
Phone
Call Screening allows users to hear the purpose of a call from unknown numbers before answering. The feature answers the call silently in the background, prompting the caller to state their name and reason for calling. The iPhone will ring only if the user decides to accept the call.
Hold Assist will stay on the line during hold music until a live agent is available, while Live Translation will facilitate real-time translation during calls, providing spoken translations for both parties.
Messages
Group chat members can now create polls, and the app will suggest polls when appropriate. Users can customize chat backgrounds, see typing indicators, and send Apple Cash within group chats. Messages from unknown senders will be filtered into a dedicated folder, remaining silenced until approved by the user. Live Translation will also be available for text messages.
Apple Music
Apple Music introduces a Lyrics Translation feature to help users understand song lyrics in other languages. The new Lyrics Pronunciation feature will display phonetic lyrics for easier singing along. The AudioMix feature will transition songs seamlessly, similar to a DJ’s mixing style, and a karaoke feature will let users use their iPhone as a microphone for Apple TV. Users can also pin favorite songs for quick access.
Apple Maps
Apple Maps will enhance daily commute understanding by suggesting preferred routes and notifying users of delays. A new Visited Places feature will track locations, with all data encrypted for privacy.
Apple Wallet
Apple Wallet will now support a Digital ID for passports, allowing for age verification in apps and at TSA checkpoints. Users can also present their driver’s license or state ID for verification on various platforms. Wallet will refresh its boarding pass experience with real-time flight updates and integrated Maps navigation.
FaceTime
FaceTime will incorporate Live Translation, providing translated captions for conversations in different languages.
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Photos
Responding to user feedback, Apple is reinstating a tabbed interface in the Photos app, making it easier to navigate through favorites and albums. The app will also convert 2D images into 3D spatial photos.
Camera
The Camera app will feature the two most-used capture modes on the main screen, with additional modes accessible via swipe. Settings like flash and timer can be adjusted by swiping up from the bottom.
Apple Podcasts
Apple Podcasts will allow users to customize playback speed, enhancing the listening experience. An “Enhance Dialogue” feature will improve speech clarity against background noise.
Image Playground
Apple will integrate ChatGPT into Image Playground, allowing users to create images in various styles by describing their preferences. This feature will facilitate unique image generation based on user input.
SOURCE: TECH CRUNCH
