iPhone users likely to get these new features today as Apple gears up for big update

Apple is set to release iOS 26.1 today, featuring a new ‘Tinted’ toggle for improved readability and performance enhancements.

Apple is expected to roll out iOS 26.1 to the public today, marking the latest update to the company’s flagship mobile operating system. The update is said to bring a small but notable addition, alongside performance and stability improvements, ahead of the next big release, iOS 26.2, which could enter beta testing as early as Tuesday.

Apple is set to release iOS 26.1 today, featuring a 'Tinted' toggle for improved readability. (REUTERS)

By Ayushmann Chawla

Ayushmann Chawla is the Deputy Chief Content Producer at Hindustan Times. A seasoned tech journalist with years of experience working for some of the industry’s leading media organizations, his articles can also be read on Live Mint. His passion extends beyond journalism—he’s a dedicated automobile enthusiast, always ready to explore the latest in car technology and design. A self-confessed gadget lover, Ayushmann finds joy in testing new devices and sharing his findings with his audience. Instagram: ayushmannchawla

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According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, Apple plans to make iOS 26.1 available to all users today, “barring any last-minute delays.” The highlight of the update is a new ‘Tinted’ toggle for the Liquid Glass feature, designed to improve on-screen readability by slightly muting the vivid transparency effects. While this makes text and icons easier to read, it does come at the cost of some visual flair.

Beyond this tweak, iOS 26.1 appears to be a relatively minor release, focusing largely on bug fixes and optimisation rather than introducing sweeping new features. Still, the timing of its rollout sets the stage for something more substantial.

iOS 26.2 beta could arrive this week

Gurman reports that iOS 26.2’s first developer beta could be released as soon as Tuesday, following the public release of 26.1. While the initial beta may not bring major new additions, Apple often introduces more visible features in later builds. For instance, the Liquid Glass toggle itself didn’t appear until the fourth beta of iOS 26.1, right before the release candidate.

What to expect next

Although iOS 26.2’s feature list remains under wraps, a few possibilities stand out. Apple has promised support for adding US passports to the Apple Wallet before the end of 2025, though it’s unclear whether that rollout depends on this update. Another major addition expected “in future updates” is end-to-end encryption for RCS messaging, a long-awaited feature that could enhance privacy across text communications.

If Apple sticks to its usual schedule, iOS 26.2 should launch publicly in December, potentially closing out the year with a more meaningful upgrade for iPhone users.