iOS 26.1 Preview: Apple’s Next Software Upgrade Packs Exciting Changes

Apple is gearing up to release its latest operating system update, iOS 26.1, teases major iPhone improvements in its RC build, signaling a powerful experience for users. The update is expected to roll out publicly in early November.

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The iPhone software, which has just reached the Release Candidate (RC) stage for beta testers, is expected to bring a mix of visual refinements, new gestures, and behind-the-scenes improvements designed to make the iPhone experience smoother and smarter.

Customizable Liquid Glass design

Apple will provide users more control over how their iPhone interface looks. The new “Liquid Glass” customization allows users to adjust the transparency level of system backgrounds. Users can choose between “Clear” and “Tinted” modes in Display and Brightness settings. 

Slide to Stop Alarms and Timers

Apple has introduced a new “slide to stop” gesture for alarms and timers, replacing the old tap-to-stop button. This gesture reduces accidental dismissals while adding a more natural feel to managing countdowns.

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Lock Screen and Apple Music Improvements

Users can now disable the “swipe to open Camera” shortcut on the lock screen. In Apple Music, listeners can now swipe left or right on the mini-player to skip between songs, making navigation quicker and more fluid.

Apple TV Rebrand 

The new update introduces a refreshed, more colourful Apple TV app icon. The service will now simply be called “Apple TV.” Meanwhile, Apple is expanding language support for its AI-powered Apple Intelligence and AirPods Live Translation features. The newly added languages are Danish, Turkish, Portuguese, Chinese, Japanese, and Italian.

Smarter Background Security

The iOS 26.1 update enhances device protection with a new “Background Security Improvements” option. This feature will automatically install small security patches between major updates, effectively replacing the older Rapid Security Response system.

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AppMigrationKit

This new toolkit will help iPhone users to transfer app data when switching to Android. Developers can integrate this framework into their apps to enable a seamless, one-time transfer of essential data between devices.

PhotoKit

PhotoKit allows apps to back up photos in the background without needing the app to remain open. Aimed at third-party photo and cloud storage services, this feature improves reliability and convenience for users.

iOS 26.1: Eligible iPhones

Generation

Models

iPhone 17 series

iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone 17 Pro Max, iPhone Air

iPhone 16 series

iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, iPhone 16 Pro   Max, iPhone 16e

iPhone 15 series

iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro   Max

iPhone 14 series

iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, iPhone 14 Pro, iPhone 14 Pro   Max

iPhone 13 series

iPhone 13, iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 13 Pro, iPhone 13 Pro  Max

iPhone 12 series

iPhone 12, iPhone 12 mini, iPhone 12 Pro, iPhone 12 Pro   Max

iPhone 11 series

iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro, iPhone 11 Pro Max

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Additionally, iPhone SE (2nd generation and later) variants are also eligible for the upcoming update.

The iOS 26.1 update showcases the company’s focus on polish outlook, personalization, and protection. With improvements ranging from smoother animations to enhanced user interface elements, this update underscores Apple’s dedication to providing a superior user experience.