Apple has officially released iOS 26.1 — the first major update to its iOS 26 operating system — bringing a host of new features, improved accessibility, and enhanced privacy options. The update is now available for iPhone 11 series and newer models, including the iPhone SE (2nd Generation). Alongside performance improvements, Apple has introduced new controls for the Liquid Glass interface, expanded language support for Apple Intelligence, and upgrades to AirPods’ Live Translation capabilities.
The iOS 26.1 update was rolled out globally on Monday, roughly a month after the launch of iOS 26. Apple says the update focuses on user experience, personalization, and advanced AI integration. Eligible users can install it by navigating to Settings → General → Software Update on their iPhones. The installation process remains simple, and Apple recommends ensuring sufficient battery and stable Wi-Fi before downloading.
One of the most notable features in iOS 26.1 is the Liquid Glass opacity toggle, which lets users customize the transparency level of their lock screen and notifications. This allows for a more personalized visual experience, enabling users to choose how vivid or subtle they want their screen background effects to appear.
Additionally, Apple has redesigned certain system gestures to prevent accidental interactions. Users will now need to swipe to stop Alarms or Timers, reducing the risk of unintentionally dismissing them. Privacy-conscious users can also disable the camera shortcut on the lock screen — a new option aimed at improving device security and personal privacy.
Apple has continued to invest in its artificial intelligence system, Apple Intelligence, with iOS 26.1 expanding support to more countries and languages. The update enhances Siri’s contextual understanding, multilingual capabilities, and overall response accuracy.
Meanwhile, AirPods’ Live Translation feature now supports several new languages, including Simplified and Traditional Chinese, Japanese, Korean, and Italian. This addition is a major step for Apple toward creating a truly global translation experience, allowing users to communicate seamlessly across languages in real-time.
The Music App has received a smooth upgrade with a new MiniPlayer Swipe Gesture, making it easier to switch songs quickly. The AutoMix feature, previously limited to select devices, is now available through AirPlay, offering smoother music transitions during playback.
For creators and recording enthusiasts, iOS 26.1 introduces USB microphone gain control, giving users more flexibility when recording audio directly on their iPhones. Recorded files can now be saved to custom locations, simplifying file management for podcasters and musicians.
In the Fitness App, Apple has added manual workout logging. This means users can now record physical activity even without a connected Apple Watch or wearable, making fitness tracking more inclusive and flexible.
FaceTime gets a significant audio improvement in iOS 26.1, ensuring clearer sound quality even under weak network conditions. On the safety front, Communication Safety and Web Content Filters are now enabled by default for users aged 13 to 17, aligning with Apple’s commitment to child safety online. These features help filter harmful content and alert users to potential risks, based on regional laws and digital safety standards.
Apple notes that the update may affect performance and battery life differently across models, depending on usage patterns. Some advanced features, particularly those linked to Apple Intelligence and AirPods Live Translation, may not be available in all countries or on all devices.
Nonetheless, iOS 26.1 represents another major step in Apple’s long-term vision for a smarter, safer, and more adaptive mobile experience. With refined design elements, enhanced AI capabilities, and more powerful privacy controls, this update continues Apple’s commitment to delivering meaningful improvements that enrich users’ daily lives.
