Apple unveiled the highly awaited iOS 26 on Monday, now accessible as a complimentary software upgrade. This fresh iPhone operating system brings notable alterations in both functionality and aesthetics.

The process of downloading the new operating system is easy, although getting used to the changes may require some time. While adapting can be tough, this update is anticipated to be advantageous for most users. Mashable reporters have been evaluating the iOS 26 beta for several months, and it boasts a multitude of thrilling new features. We’ve spotlighted three of our favorites that you should explore immediately.

So, download iOS 26 and dive into these new features.

Liquid Glass

This is a clear highlight, but you should certainly give Liquid Glass a try after upgrading to iOS 26. Liquid Glass is the fresh design language that Apple has introduced with this operating system. It is more expressive and employs translucent elements to enhance multitasking and app functionality.

Liquid Glass will also change the look of your iPhone. From the Control Center to the customizable lock screen and subtle animations throughout the iPhone experience, there’s a lot to discover post-update. You can also pick between a completely transparent style or a reduced transparency style, based on your preference.

For more information regarding Liquid Glass, check out our in-depth analysis on iPad OS 26, which also includes a Liquid Glass enhancement.

Polls in Messages

Several modifications are arriving at Messages with iOS 26. While the new personalized backgrounds have garnered attention, our favorite change is the introduction of polls, which could be an entertaining feature for group conversations.

Mashable’s Alex Perry remarked on this new addition: “One of my favorites is the ability to create polls in group chats, which is ostensibly a tool for deciding where to go for dinner, but will genuinely serve to resolve incredibly obscure, silly inside-joke debates among friend groups.”

Live Translation

For those who have taken language courses but remember very little, Live Translation could be the most thrilling and practical feature in iOS 26. Powered by Apple Intelligence, this tool will be woven into Messages, Phone, and FaceTime calls, potentially enabling seamless conversations with individuals who speak different languages. It may be intriguing to test it out once you upgrade, to see how effectively it functions. (We’re still evaluating it ourselves.)

We’ve grown accustomed to the remarkable capabilities of our technology, but if this tool operates smoothly, real-time conversation translation feels nearly magical.

Want to find out more about iOS 26 and Liquid Glass? Catch up on Mashable’s latest coverage:

– Liquid Glass is finally here — 4 settings to modify on day one
– Every iPhone receiving iOS 26: Check if yours is on the list
– Ultra clear appearance for the iPhone is incredible. Here’s how to achieve it.
– I’ve been using Liquid Glass for months. Here are 3 features I adore and 1 that isn’t fully developed.
– Forget iOS. Here’s how to obtain watchOS, macOS Tahoe, iPadOS, tvOS, and visionOS 26.