Apple is shaking things up in iOS 26 with more than just a new coat of paint. While the flashy Liquid Glass design has been the face of the update, the real changes run deeper, especially in the Phone and Messages apps. These core apps are getting long-overdue redesigns that finally pull them closer to what Android users, particularly those on Pixel, have had for years.
New layout and features in the Phone app
The Phone app is getting a streamlined new layout that combines favorites, recent calls, and voicemails into a single screen. Apple is also adding a prominent Search button in the new tab bar, making it easier to find contacts or call history without digging around. This unified view is optional, so users who prefer the older layout may be able to revert back, though Apple hasn’t fully detailed how that will work yet.
Call Screening and Hold Assist take cues from Pixel
More importantly, Apple is bringing Pixel-style call screening to the iPhone. When an unknown number calls, your iPhone will silently answer on your behalf, listen to the caller, and transcribe their message in real time. If it’s not spam, your phone will ring and show you what the caller said, letting you decide whether or not to pick up.
Paired with this is Hold Assist, a new feature that recognizes hold music and lets you step away while waiting for a real person to come on the line. When the agent finally answers, your phone will notify you and even summarize anything that was said while you were away.
Messages app catches up with WhatsApp and Telegram
The Messages app is also getting smarter and more expressive. Custom chat backgrounds are finally here, letting users personalize conversations in ways that have been standard on WhatsApp and Telegram. Polls are another long-requested feature making their debut in iOS 26. You can now create polls directly in group chats to settle plans, vote on ideas, or make decisions as a group. Apple Intelligence will even suggest polls based on what’s being discussed—for example, prompting a poll if someone asks, “What should we eat?”
Typing indicators, Apple Cash, and live translation
Typing indicators are now supported in group chats, so you’ll know when someone is replying. You can also send and receive Apple Cash directly in the group thread, removing the need to switch apps. Apple’s Live Translate feature is also expanding to Messages, allowing real-time translation of both text and audio messages. This is powered by Apple Intelligence and works natively in the chat, helping users communicate across languages without leaving the app.
Smarter message filtering for unknown senders
Apple is also extending its screening logic to Messages. Texts from unknown senders will now be filtered into a separate folder by default. You can choose to mark them as known, ask for more information, or delete them entirely. These messages will remain silent and won’t appear in your main inbox unless you approve them. However, this filter won’t affect important texts like one-time passwords or delivery notifications.
iOS 26 beta
iOS 26 is currently available in beta and will roll out to the public later this year.
