14 Hidden Features in iOS 26 You Shouldn’t Miss
Apple has officially launched iOS 26, introducing several notable improvements in technology and user experience. While much of the attention has been on its AI features and refreshed design, there are also numerous subtle updates that might not make headlines but significantly enhance daily iPhone use. These changes make your device more intuitive, secure, and efficient.
In this report, we take a closer look at 14 Hidden Features in iOS 26, underrated yet highly useful additions that will have you thinking, Why wasn’t this here earlier?
14 Hidden and Impressive Features in iOS 26
Some of iOS 26’s most impactful updates are surprisingly small. They may seem minor at first glance but can make a big difference in daily usage. Let’s explore the 14 Hidden Features in iOS 26 that are small in scale but impressive in utility:
1. AirPods Will No Longer Disturb You While Sleeping
One of the simplest yet most practical additions in iOS 26 is sleep detection for AirPods. Your iPhone can now detect when you’ve fallen asleep and automatically pause any playing music or podcasts. This is especially useful for those who enjoy falling asleep with audio playing through their headphones.
2. Handoff Support Comes to CarPlay
CarPlay just got more user-friendly. If you’re listening to a podcast or music while walking and then get into your car, CarPlay will pick up exactly where you left off. This seamless transition ensures your entertainment or work continues without any interruption.
3. Smarter Journal App with Multi-Journal Support
The Journal app in iOS 26 now supports multiple journals, allowing users to separate entries by topics or themes. It also includes inline image support and location-based map entries. With iCloud Sync, all journal entries are instantly accessible across your Apple devices, offering a richer and more personal journaling experience.
4. Password History Now Available in Passwords App
iOS 26 brings a major upgrade to the Password Manager by enabling users to view the history of their passwords. This is particularly useful for tracking changes and ensuring strong, updated passwords—an essential tool for better digital security.
5. Markdown Support in Apple Notes
A great update for technical users—Apple Notes now supports importing and exporting files in Markdown format. Markdown is a popular lightweight formatting language used by developers and writers alike, making note-taking more versatile.
6. Dictation Now Recognises Indian Names Accurately
Speech recognition has improved, especially for Indian users. Dictation in iOS 26 now correctly identifies and spells local names and terms, making the feature more accurate and accessible for a wider audience.
7. Fully Customisable Alarm Snooze Time
With iOS 26, users can customise alarm snooze time anywhere from 1 to 15 minutes. This flexibility helps you tailor your wake-up routine exactly the way you want—small but highly effective for managing daily schedules.
8. Smarter Dual SIM Management Through Focus Mode
Dual SIM users can now assign one SIM to silent mode and keep the other active using Focus Mode. This is a helpful feature for managing work-life balance, allowing you to silence non-essential numbers during meetings or off-hours.
9. Enhanced eSIM Management for Travellers
iOS 26 includes intelligent eSIM management. Your phone can automatically determine when to switch between home and travel SIMs. Additionally, FaceTime and iMessage can continue to use your home number even abroad, offering seamless connectivity during international trips.
10. Estimated Battery Charging Time Display
Battery Settings now show an estimated time for full charge. The new Adaptive Power Mode optimises battery performance based on your daily habits, improving longevity and reducing frequent charging cycles.
11. Improved Support for Arabic Language
iOS 26 brings native support for Eastern Arabic numerals and right-to-left layout in the Calculator app. A new Arabic-English keyboard has also been introduced, enhancing the experience for Arabic-speaking users.
12. Enhanced Dialogue Clarity in Podcasts
Podcast lovers will appreciate the new “Enhance Dialogue” option, which makes conversations in audio content clearer. Playback speed can also be adjusted between 0.5x and 3x, offering more control over how you consume podcasts.
13. One-Tap Privacy and Safety Check for Blocked Contacts
When you block a contact, iOS 26 now gives you the option to revoke all previously shared access with that person in just one tap. This feature enhances your privacy and security in a simple yet effective way.
14. Premium Visual Experience with Liquid Glass Design
Apple has introduced a new ‘Liquid Glass’ UI design in iOS 26. The interface now features a sleek, glass-like transparency, making app icons, widgets, and system visuals appear more refined and premium. It elevates the overall look and feel of the iPhone.
What Else is New in iOS 26?
Beyond these subtle features, iOS 26 also enhances Apple’s AI and machine learning capabilities. With tools like Image Playground, users can generate images using AI. The introduction of Genmoji allows for creating entirely new, original emojis. The Messages app now includes a polling feature for easier group discussions and decision-making. Real-time translation is also available during calls and messages.
iOS 26 Rollout: When and for Whom?
The developer beta of iOS 26 launched in June 2025, followed by the public beta in July. The official release is set for September 2025 and will be available on all supported iPhone models starting from iPhone 11 onwards. However, AI-powered features are prioritised on newer models like iPhone 15 Pro and the iPhone 16 series.
Conclusion
iOS 26 is more than just a visual upgrade—it significantly enhances the daily usability, intelligence, and safety of your iPhone. These 14 Hidden Features in iOS 26 are a testament to Apple’s ongoing commitment to improving the user experience in thoughtful and impactful ways. Whether it’s the auto-pause for AirPods or the intelligent eSIM switching while abroad, these updates transform your iPhone into a smarter companion.
By adopting iOS 26, users can unlock the full potential of their device. With this update, the iPhone becomes even more personal, connected, and intelligent—taking the Apple user experience to new heights.
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