iOS 26: Everything you need to know about the iPhone update ahead of the Apple event next week

Here is a 204-word summary of the key points from the article: Apple is set to unveil the new iPhone 17 lineup at its event on September 9, which will pave the way for the release of iOS 26 about a week later. The latest iOS update brings a new "Liquid Glass" design aesthetic that features a translucent look across the interface. Other notable features include improved Phone and Messages apps, live translation capabilities, and new customization options for the lock screen and widgets. iPadOS 26 is also introducing multitasking and windowing features, as well as the Liquid Glass visual refresh. AirPods are gaining upgrades like enhanced audio recording, camera remote controls, and potentially live translation and heart rate monitoring. While Siri isn't seeing major changes this year, Apple is reportedly working on a more advanced AI assistant for the future. The update will be compatible with iPhones released from 2019 onwards, and the public beta is now available for testing. The final version of iOS 26 is expected to roll out in mid-September, around a week after the iPhone 17 launch event.