iOS 26: 3 hidden features you need to try

August 13, 2025

iOS 26: 3 new features you might not know about

Apple continues to evolve iOS at a pace that often hides little "treasures" within the beta versions.

With the arrival of iOS 26, in addition to the big changes that are taking the spotlight, there are three more "subtle" but impressive features worth discovering.

AI-search on Apple Maps

Searching for locations is now becoming much more natural and intelligent. With Apple Intelligence integration in Maps, you can type or dictate phrases like "find a nearby coffee shop with free Wi-Fi and open until 10pm" and get instant results that meet all the criteria. Artificial intelligence takes over to understand the natural language queries, filter the options and suggest the best solution, reducing the need for multiple steps and complex searches. Apple Maps thus gains a significant advantage over competing apps, offering an experience closer to a true personal assistant.

Real-time translation with AirPods

One of the most impressive additions to iOS 26 is the ability for AirPods to act as a portable translator. With a double tap on the headphones, real-time translation is activated, allowing you to chat with people who speak a different language without delays or complicated settings. Apple Intelligence keeps the conversation flowing smoothly, so replies reach your conversation partner almost instantly. This feature is ideal for traveling abroad, working with foreign teams, or even for simple everyday interactions with people who don't speak your language. It's worth noting that it requires an iPhone 16 or newer and AirPods that support Apple Intelligence technology.

New aesthetics and sound experience

The sixth beta of iOS 26 also brings small, but noticeably improving changes to the everyday user experience. New ringtones, such as "Dreamer", give a more luxurious and relaxing feel to calls, while the revamped Liquid Glass interface offers smoother gestures and more "silky" transitions when navigating the system. At the same time, improvements have been made to the camera performance, with better stabilisation and more natural colours, making photos and videos look more vibrant. While these changes may seem small at first glance, they contribute significantly to the overall sense of quality that characterises the iPhone.

iOS 26 isn't just about big announcements and headlines; it's also about small but important improvements that make a difference in everyday use. From smart search in Maps, to automatic translation with AirPods and aesthetic details in the interface, Apple shows once again that innovation is also in the details. Perhaps, after all, the most impressive upgrade is the one you don't immediately understand - but it's winning you over day by day.

ired - The ultimate technology blog