15 Hidden iOS 26 Features You Need to Try Right Now
iOS 26 is packed with hidden features that Apple did not announce at WWDC. Here are 15 secret iOS 26 features that will change how you use your iPhone.
1. Liquid Glass Disable Option
Not a fan of the new Liquid Glass design? You can reduce or disable it via Settings > Accessibility > Display and Text Size > Reduce Transparency.
2. Charging Time Estimate
When you plug in your iPhone, the Lock Screen now shows estimated time to reach 80 percent and full charge. Just tap the Lock Screen while charging to see it.
3. Camera Lens Cleaning Alert
iOS 26 can detect when your camera lens is dirty. Enable it in Settings > Camera > Lens Cleaning Hints.
4. AirPods Camera Control
Control your iPhone camera using AirPods stem gestures. Go to Settings > [AirPods name] > Camera Control. Learn more at Apple AirPods Support.
5. Partial Text Selection in Messages
Long press on any message, tap Select, and drag to copy just part of the text instead of the entire message.
6. New Background Sounds
Apple added 8 new background sounds including Babble, Steam, Airplane, Boat, Bus, Train, Rain On Roof, and Quiet Night. Find them in Settings > Accessibility > Audio and Visual > Background Sounds.
7. Call Screening
iOS 26 can screen unknown callers for you. Enable Screen Unknown Callers in Phone settings to reduce spam calls.
8. Screenshot Visual Intelligence
After taking a screenshot, you can search the web for items in the image or ask ChatGPT questions. Powered by Apple Intelligence.
9. Missed Call Reminders
Swipe left on a missed call, tap the clock icon, and set a reminder to call back later.
10. Home Screen Icon Tinting
Match your app icons to your iPhone color. Long press Home Screen > Edit > Customize > Tinted. Check r/iOSsetups for inspiration.
11. Disable Lock Screen Camera Shortcut
You can now disable or change the lock screen shortcuts. Long press lock screen > Customize > tap icons to change.
12. HDR Screenshots
Screenshots now capture full HDR content, preserving the dynamic range of what you see on screen.
13. Swipe Back From Anywhere
iOS 26 enhanced gesture controls let you swipe back from anywhere on the screen, not just the edge.
14. Keep Audio in Headphones
Stop audio from switching between devices. Go to Settings > General > AirPlay and Continuity > Keep Audio in Headphones.
15. Local Call Recording
iOS 26 adds a Local Capture toggle in Control Center to record calls. Note: Check your local laws before recording calls.
Tip: Many features require iPhone 11 or newer. Update via Settings > General > Software Update.
More iOS 26 Resources
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