Apple unveils AI features, live translation, spam-call screener in new iOS 26 update

AI features integrated throughout apps

AI was a recurring theme at the event, though Apple did not reveal any major updates to Siri. Instead, Apple Intelligence will be embedded across core apps. In Messages, users will finally see typing indicators in group chats, can add backgrounds to text threads, and create polls—with AI even suggesting polls based on chat content.

Apple also introduced live translation across Messages, FaceTime, and phone calls. Users will see real-time captions during video chats and hear translated speech on voice calls. The demonstration showed a slight delay in processing, but Apple promises the experience will improve over time.

New spam-call and text protection

With spam calls and messages on the rise, iOS 26 adds automated call screening. When an unknown number calls, the phone will answer automatically and prompt the caller to state their name and reason. Users then see a summary of the call on their lock screen. Messages from unknown senders will be routed to a separate inbox, with exceptions for time-sensitive texts like verification codes.

Hold Assist brings long-awaited convenience

One standout feature borrowed from Android is Hold Assist. If a user is stuck on hold, the phone will detect hold music and allow them to step away while maintaining the connection. When a live agent returns, the phone alerts the user and informs the agent that the caller will be back momentarily.

On-screen visual intelligence expands

Apple is also expanding its visual AI capabilities. When users take screenshots, the device will now offer contextual actions—such as identifying objects in the image, suggesting where to buy them, or extracting information to create calendar events. ChatGPT integration will enable additional queries, such as identifying a celebrity shown in a screenshot.

More powerful Mac search and phone mirroring

Mac users will see a major upgrade to Spotlight search, with the ability to create calendar events, start audio recordings, and use new keyboard shortcuts within the search interface. Additionally, iPhone apps and notifications will be mirrored more seamlessly on Macs—allowing users to monitor app activity such as food delivery updates or manage phone calls directly from their laptops.

iPad becomes more Mac-like

Apple continues its push to position the iPad as a productivity device. The upcoming software adds a menu bar, more flexible window management, and introduces the Mac-exclusive Preview app to the iPad for editing PDFs and documents.

AI-powered workout coach on Apple Watch

For fitness enthusiasts, the Apple Watch will soon include a generative AI workout coach. Trained on Apple Fitness+ voice data and personalized with the user’s workout history, the AI coach will provide encouragement and live updates during exercise sessions for activities such as running, cycling, and strength training.

Siri’s AI makeover still missing

While AI was prominent across apps, Apple provided no significant update on its long-delayed Siri overhaul. Last year’s promised improvements have yet to materialize, and an ad campaign highlighting a more personalized Siri was recently withdrawn. However, Apple will allow third-party developers to tap into its on-device large language models, enabling AI features in apps such as AllTrails, which now offers AI-generated hiking route suggestions.

Looking ahead

Apple’s AI approach remains more measured compared to rivals aggressively promoting AI-driven search and content generation. But with these updates, Apple is signalling that AI will play a growing role across its devices—albeit in ways designed to feel seamless and privacy-focused.

Whether this year’s upgrades will satisfy users eager for more transformative AI capabilities remains to be seen. As Apple quietly integrates AI beneath its signature polished design, bigger leaps may still lie ahead—perhaps next year.