iOS 26: Everything you need to know about the new update before the iPhone 17 launch

Here is a 202-word summary of the key points from the news article: Apple is set to release iOS 26, the next major update for iPhone, alongside the launch of the new iPhone 17 lineup on September 9. The update introduces a new "Liquid Glass" design aesthetic with a translucent look across the interface. Key new features include a redesigned Phone app with improved call management, real-time language translation in calls and messages, the ability to create polls in group chats, and improved spam filtering. The Photos app will see the return of dedicated tabs, and the Camera app will have new convenience features. Other updates include more customization options for the lock screen, changes to iPadOS enabling better multitasking, and new capabilities for AirPods like enhanced audio recording and potential heart rate monitoring. While Siri improvements are reportedly delayed, Apple is said to be working on an AI chatbot to rival ChatGPT. iOS 26 will be compatible with iPhone models released from 2019 onward. The public beta is now available, with the final version expected to roll out a week after the iPhone 17 launch event.