iOS 26: What to know about the free iPhone software update ahead of the Apple event today

Here is a 169 word summary of the news article: Apple is expected to release iOS 26, the next major update for the iPhone operating system, shortly after the announcement of the new iPhone 17 lineup at their upcoming event. The update will introduce a new "Liquid Glass" design language with a more translucent look across the interface. Key new features include: Phone app redesign with improved call management, live translation in calls and messages, group chat polls, spam text filtering, and enhanced camera and screenshot capabilities. iPadOS 26 will also bring multitasking improvements and a new menu bar. AirPods are getting updates as well, including enhanced audio recording, camera remote controls, and potentially live translation and heart rate monitoring features. However, major changes to Siri have been delayed. iOS 26 will be compatible with iPhone models from 2019 onward, and the public beta is now available for testing. The final release is expected around mid-September, shortly after the new iPhone 17 models are unveiled.