Apple has released the first public beta versions of iOS 26, iPadOS 26, macOS Tahoe 26, watchOS 26, and tvOS 26 to the general public, allowing more people to experience the new operating system.New "Liquid Glass" design language, and a number of new features to enhance usage efficiency.
One of the biggest highlights of this update is that it is Apple’s largest interface design update since iOS 7. Through a new interface called "Liquid Glass", it presents a smooth and transparent visual experience, bringing a more futuristic operating experience, while unifying the interface styles of Apple's various platforms.
On the other hand, Apple has also abandoned the previous naming method of version numbers and instead used years as the basis for identifying system versions, allowing users to more intuitively understand the update rhythm. For example, this year corresponds to "26".
OniOS 26In the latest update, Apple not only updated the lock screen with customizable backgrounds and messages, but also enhanced the iMessage experience by adding voting and Live Translation, allowing users to communicate across languages in real time, and can be applied to messages, FaceTime or phone calls.
The "Visual Intelligence" feature that Apple has been investing in has also evolved. Now users can directly interact with the screen content and further combine the device's AI inference. In addition, iOS 26 also introduces the "Call Screening" and "Hold Assist" features, allowing users to filter whether to respond to unfamiliar calls or let the phone help wait for customer service to connect music, improving the call experience.
iPadOS 26It is regarded as Apple's most productivity-changing system update this year. It finally introduced a desktop-like window management mechanism for the iPad, including multitasking, menu bar drop-down operations, and other items. It also added the Preview and Exposé window management interfaces commonly seen in macOS for the first time, greatly narrowing the gap in operating efficiency between iPad Pro and MacBook models.
As for macOS, it continues the tradition of naming after American places. This update is named "macOS Tahoe 26", and imported the iPhone version of the "Phone" application and Live Activities real-time dynamic presentation function. At the same time, the Spotlight search tool is enhanced to support direct application operation, greatly improving the convenience of use.
InWatch 26For its part, a new virtual fitness coach function called "Workout Buddy" has been added. Through AI analysis of the user's past exercise history records, it can provide instant voice encouragement and suggestions, such as "You have achieved your activity goals for six consecutive days, that's awesome!", further enhancing the Apple Watch's positioning as a personalized health assistant.
Although the public beta version is relatively stable, Apple still reminds users that these systems are still in the preview stage and may still have bugs or power consumption. If you want to try to update, it is recommended to back up the device data beforehand to avoid data loss due to system instability.
