If you have updated your iPhone to iOS 26 or bought a new device, it may look familiar at first. But Apple has added many useful features that stay hidden until you change a few settings. Taking a few minutes to set them up can make daily use much easier.
First, customise your Lock Screen. Press and hold the screen to change the clock style, colour, and size. You can add widgets and try the new Glass effect or motion wallpapers for a fresh look.
Next, change your Home Screen icons. iOS 26 offers Clear, Tinted, and updated Default icons. These let your wallpaper show through or match icons to one colour theme.
A new feature called Visual Intelligence works on screenshots. After taking one, you can search, ask questions, or identify objects directly from the image.
To reduce spam, turn on Call Screening. Unknown callers must say their name and reason before your phone rings.
In Messages, you can now add chat backgrounds. Pick colours, photos, or create custom ones for each conversation.
iOS 26 also brings Live Translation. Messages can translate automatically, and the feature works during calls, FaceTime captions, and even face-to-face chats with supported AirPods.
You can also create fun Genmoji by combining emojis or describing a new one.
The new Games app puts App Store and Apple Arcade games in one place and supports shared scores.
Apple has added new ringtones and lets you choose alarm snooze times between one and fifteen minutes.
Finally, Safari now offers a Compact tab layout for comfortable browsing.
In short, iOS 26 has many smart upgrades. Turning on these settings helps you get the best out of your iPhone every day.
