iOS 26 is ready to download: Everything to know about the free iPhone software update

If you haven't already, you can now download the new iOS 26 on your iPhone. Once you do, get ready to see a slew of changes, including a new clear design called Liquid Glass. The translucent look can be found within apps as well as your lock and home screens. (If you don't like it, there's a way to reduce the transparency.) The overhaul is one of several big changes that come with iOS, macOS, iPadOS, watchOS and the rest of Apple's software suite — the new operating system updates for those gadgets are also available to download now.

You'll also see multiple useful additions in the Phone and Messages apps. For instance, the ability to weed out spam texts or unknown senders and an option to hold your spot on a phone call when you've been waiting for a representative to pick up. And ...